The return of snow and cold weather in New York is prompting more residents to turn up their heating, and with it, higher energy bills. For many households, help comes through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), which provides crucial support for winter heating costs.
This year, the program got off to a delayed start due to federal government shutdown-related funding issues, typically opening in November. New York State pushed back the start date by a month, but applications officially opened on Monday. “HEAP is very important to our low-income individuals and households within Erie County,” said Minnie James, executive director of family independence at the Erie County Department of Social Services. “We’re receiving applications daily,” she added, noting the timing is helpful as temperatures drop in Buffalo. Statewide, roughly 1.5 million households rely on HEAP for heating support.
Barbara Guinn, commissioner of the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, said the state acted quickly once funding was confirmed. “We were ready to open within 48 hours after receiving our funding,” she said. The state expects to spend $400 million this winter assisting New Yorkers. Households of four earning up to around $80,000 a year are eligible, with benefits varying by heating type, up to a maximum of $996.
For many families, the delay caused anxiety. “It has definitely impacted the community,” James said, calling the program’s launch a relief. While some recipients, such as those on SNAP, are automatically enrolled, others must submit applications to access first-come, first-served funds. The regular program will run through the end of March, though funding is limited. Applications can be submitted online, by mail, or in person, with online submissions recommended. Emergency HEAP funding will not open until January.