A program that provides financial assistance to help New Yorkers pay their heating bills will open in November. Governor Kathy Hochul says more than 1.5 million Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) benefits were issued last heating season, and a similar number is expected this winter. She has also directed state officials to increase the HEAP benefit amount for New Yorkers who have their heating fuel delivered to their home. The benefit amounts vary based on income, household size, heating source, and if the household includes a vulnerable member. A family of four can have a gross monthly income up to $6,852, or an annual gross income of up to $82,230, and still qualify for assistance. Many eligible New Yorkers will receive HEAP assistance automatically; households that do not automatically receive that assistance can apply here, beginning November 2nd. State officials estimate that hundreds of thousands of additional households are expected to apply for HEAP benefits.
