5 Towns CentralNY Heating Assistance Applications Open November 2 as 1.5 Million Residents Qualify
New York residents struggling with winter heating expenses will soon be able to apply for state assistance, with applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) opening November 2.
Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that approximately 1.5 million New Yorkers are eligible for the program, which helps qualifying households cover heating costs. The amount of assistance depends on factors such as household income, family size and heating needs. Some households may receive benefits automatically, while others will need to submit an application once the program opens.
The assistance comes as families prepare for another winter of high energy costs. National Grid’s latest seasonal forecast projects that average residential electricity bills for Upstate New York customers will increase by approximately 3% to 5% over the five-month winter period, depending on the service area.
Natural gas customers could see a modest decrease instead, with projected winter bills expected to be about $9 lower for households using an estimated 713 therms over the season.
Eligible residents can review program details and apply through New York State’s Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.