Gov. Hochul opens applications for home heating assistance in NY

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New York State is now accepting applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program, which helps eligible residents pay to heat their homes this winter. The Governor’s office said the program could provide up to $1,086 depending on how a household heats its home.

The Governor said the program is meant to ease costs for low- and middle-income households and older adults amid rising energy prices. “No New Yorker should have to choose between heating their homes this winter and keeping food on the table,” Governor Hochul said.

HEAP benefit amounts and dates stated by New York State
Item	Amount or Date
Maximum possible HEAP benefit this winter	$1,086
Base benefit for oil, kerosene or propane heat	$990
Increase for oil, kerosene or propane	$90
Base benefit for wood, pellets or coal heat	$700
Increase for wood, pellets or coal	$65
Emergency HEAP applications open	Jan. 4, 2027

Households that do not automatically receive help through the program can begin applying today, according to the announcement. Applications are accepted at local departments of social services and can be submitted online, by mail or in person. The state directed applicants to ny.gov/HEAP and said older adults can contact their local office for the aging or the NY Connects helpline at 1-800-342-9871.

The announcement said benefit amounts vary by income, household size, heating source, and whether a vulnerable member lives in the home. It gave an example that a family of four can have a gross monthly income up to $6,852, or an annual gross income up to $82,230, and still qualify.

In response to rising costs for heating oil and kerosene, the state increased base HEAP benefit amounts for households that get their heating fuel delivered. The statement said the base benefit for those who heat with oil, kerosene, or propane increased by $90 to $990. The base benefit for those who heat with wood, pellets, and coal increased by $65 to $700.

Eligible households can receive one Regular HEAP benefit per season, the Governor’s office said. Households could also be eligible for an Emergency HEAP benefit if they are in danger of running out of heating fuel or having utility services shut off. The state said applications for emergency benefits will be accepted beginning Jan. 4, 2027.

HEAP benefits are available on a first-come, first-served basis, the announcement said. New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, “HEAP is a lifeline for tens of thousands of households across New York State confronted with rising energy prices.”

The program also covers some equipment services, according to the state. Eligible homeowners can apply to have their primary heating equipment inspected and cleaned through the Heating Equipment Clean and Tune benefit. Homeowners with inoperable heating equipment can apply for repairs or replacement through the Heating Equipment Repair and Replacement program, with applicants directed to contact their local department of social services for details.

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