BUFFALO, N.Y. — As the pandemic drags on, the state is making more money available to help families struggling to heat their homes or pay their utility bills.
The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance is releasing a second round of Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) funds available.
An additional $15 million in emergency funding is being made available to those who qualify. Eligible households will be able to receive up to $2,371 in aid even if they received funding in the initial round of assistance if they are in danger of running out of fuel or having their service disconnected when the statewide moratorium on utility shutoffs expires at the end of March.
“Even with the spring season nearing, many parts of New York will continue to experience frigid temperatures for weeks to come,” said Mike Hein, commissioner of the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, which administers HEAP. "This additional funding will help ensure struggling New Yorkers, including the most vulnerable among us, can continue to heat their homes until the cold weather breaks.”
Also the deadline to apply for both regular and emergency HEAP funding has been extended until April 30. Applications are available at local social services departments either in person or by phone. A list of offices can be found here.
The amount a household will receive depends on income, household size and how the home is heated. Through March 31, utility companies and municipalities cannot shut off service for non-payment and must offer those affected a deferred payment plan to cover any overdue balance.
