A one-time benefit of $625 is available to help some residents pay for heat this winter, and the state will start accepting applications for the federally funded Home Energy Assistance Program on Monday, November 17.
Anyone living outside New York City can apply online at myBenefits.ny.gov. Last year, more than 35,000 households applied through the site, according to a press release from the office of Governor Andrew Cuomo.
Overseen by the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the program can assist eligible applicants regardless of whether they own their home or rent. Eligibility is determined by income and how many people live in the household.
The maximum gross monthly income is $2,194 for a household of one person; $2,869 for two; $3,544 for three; $4,219 for four; $4,894 for five; $5,569 for six; $5,696 for seven; $5,822 for eight; $5,949 for nine; $6,076 for 10; $6,534 for 11; and $508 for each additional person.
“Though the economic recovery continues, we know many households are struggling financially,” Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Kristin M. Proud said in the release. “I encourage anyone planning to seek assistance through the Home Energy Assistance Program to do so as soon as possible.”
Eligible households can receive one regular benefit per season and could also be eligible for an emergency benefit if they are in danger of running out of heating fuel or having their utility service shut off. Applications for emergency benefits will be accepted beginning January 2, 2015.
For more information about the Home Energy Assistance Program, go to otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/.