What is HEAP?
How does it work?
If you are eligible, you may receive one regular HEAP benefit per season and could also be eligible for an emergency HEAP benefit if you are in impending danger of running out of fuel or having your utility service shut off.Are HEAP benefits available year-round?
No, the application period normally begins in early to mid-November and continues into the winter, until funding for the program runs out.Does it matter what my home’s heating source is?
HEAP may be able to help you if you heat your home with:- Electricity
- Natural Gas
- Oil
- Coal
- Propane
- Wood/Wood Pellets
- Kerosene
- Corn
Eligibility
Who is eligible to receive HEAP?
You may be eligible if:
- You and the members of your household are U.S. citizens, U.S. non-citizen nationals or qualified non-citizens; and
- You provide a valid Social Security number for each household member; and
- You receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, Temporary Assistance or Supplemental Security Income; or
- Your monthly household income is at or below the HEAP income guidelines.
- You may be eligible for HEAP, even if you:
- Own your home
- Pay for heat as part of your rent
- Have money in the bank, stocks, bonds or other resources
Learn more infomation about current monthly income limits by clicking below.
Apply
When HEAP season is open, you can apply for a Regular HEAP Benefit:
Online: myBenefits.ny.gov
Apply online only if your household resides outside of New York City. This online application is not available for New York City residents.
In person: Both New York City residents and non-New York City residents can apply in person at your HEAP Local District Contact.
In writing / by mail: If you live outside New York City, print and mail the completed HEAP application to your HEAP Local District Contact. New York City residents can mail their application to: HRA/HEAP, PO Box 1401, Church Street Station, New York, NY 10008
Please note: The above processes are for Regular HEAP benefits only. If you are facing an emergency situation outside the regular HEAP season, both New York City and non-New York City residents can apply for Emergency HEAP Benefits at your HEAP Local District Contact. If you are eligible, a HEAP emergency benefit may be issued in addition to your regular HEAP benefit.
Ready to apply? Have with you:
- Proof of residency with one of the following:
- Rent receipt with address
- Copy of lease with address
- Water, sewer or tax bill
- Homeowner’s insurance policy
- Mortgage payment receipt
- Deed
- Utility bill
- A current fuel or utility bill, or a statement from your landlord that your heat and/or utilities are included in your rent.
- Recent pay stubs to provide proof of total current monthly income for all household members.
- For each person in your household you will need one of the following:
- Photo ID
- Driver’s license
- Birth certificate or baptismal certificate
- School records
- Passport
- Paperwork documenting a disability for anyone in your household
source: https://www.ny.gov/