What Is HEAP?
HEAP, or the Home Energy Assistance Program, is a New York State program that helps low-income New Yorkers to afford their heating bills. HEAP benefits are seasonal, and can be applied for come mid-November. According to ny.gov, to be eligible for HEAP, you and your household must:
- All be U.S. citizens, U.S. non-citizen nationals, or qualified aliens
- Provide a valid Social Security number for each household member
- Receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, Temporary Assistance or Supplemental Security Income
- Have a monthly household income that is at or below the HEAP income guidelines
Even if your heat is paid for as part of your rent, you own your own home, or you have money in the bank, stocks, bonds or other resources (x), you can be eligible for HEAP. The program is available for homes heated with electricity, natural gas, oil, coal, propane, wood or wood pellets, kerosene, or corn.
For emergency situations, such as having your utilities shut down or if you are running out of fuel, you can apply for an emergency HEAP benefit, which can be applied for anytime.
How to Apply
To apply for HEAP, visit here.
To apply for regular HEAP, you can apply online at mybenefits.ny.gov by logging in or making an account or you can print out an application and follow the instructions on the form. Applications take 30 days to be reviewed. For more information, visit here.
To apply for emergency HEAP benefits, applications must be done through your local Department of Social Services, which you can find here.
