ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — New York state residents will be able to apply for $372 million in federal home heating assistance starting this week.
The Home Energy Assistance Program, or HEAP, helps lower- and middle-income people heat their homes. HEAP applications will be accepted by local social service departments beginning Tuesday.
Eligible household can receive a one-time regular HEAP benefit of up to $726.
State officials anyone living outside of New York City can apply for a regular HEAP benefit online at myBenefits.ny.gov
Assistance is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Also, households that have already received assistance may qualify for a one-time emergency HEAP benefit if they are at risk of getting their heat shut off or running out of fuel, which they cannot afford to resupply.
Applications for emergency benefits will be accepted starting on Wednesday, January 2. Anyone in need of emergency assistance should contact their local department of social services.