As winter sets in and temperatures continue to fall across New York, many families are worried about higher heating bills. To help ease this pressure, Governor Kathy Hochul is encouraging residents to apply for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).
This program can reduce heating costs by offering up to $500 in support to eligible households. With energy prices rising and colder days ahead, this benefit can be a major relief for thousands of people.
What Is the HEAP Program?
The Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as HEAP, is a federally funded benefit that helps low-income families, seniors, and households with children or people with disabilities pay their heating bills. Every winter, millions of Americans rely on this assistance to stay warm and safe.
In New York, around 1 million residents already receive HEAP benefits. But state officials believe that another 1.5 million households could qualify as well.
The program offers an annual discount of up to $500 on energy bills. Applications are expected to open on November 24, but there is one problem: the federal government must release $400 million in funds before payments can begin.
Why the Program Is Urgently Needed
Governor Hochul has strongly criticized the delay from the Trump Administration, saying families should not have to wait to receive heating support during the coldest time of the year.
She said it is “shameful” that federal officials have not yet released the needed money and added that she will continue fighting to make energy costs more affordable for New Yorkers.
Because of rising bills and colder temperatures, people who rely on HEAP are facing growing uncertainty. Many of these households include older adults, young children, or individuals with disabilities, who are often most affected by high energy costs.
Key HEAP Details in Simple Table
Below is a short and clear table showing the main points of the program:
| Category | Details |
| Annual Heating Discount | Up to $500 |
| Application Opening Date | November 24 |
| Federal Funding Needed | $400 million |
| Current HEAP Users | 1 million households |
| Potential Eligible Households | 1.5 million more |
What State Officials Are Saying
Barbara C. Guinn, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, explained that many families have already waited too long for this support. She said the delay in releasing funds has created serious uncertainty during a time of rising energy prices.
She also thanked Governor Hochul for working to secure HEAP funding and for preparing the program so residents can receive help immediately once the money arrives.
What Happens If Federal Funds Arrive Late?
If the Trump Administration does not release the funds by November 24, the opening of HEAP applications will be delayed.
However, New York officials have made sure everything is ready in advance. This means that once the funds reach the state, the program will open within 48 hours, allowing families to receive help as quickly as possible.
Until then, residents should check if they qualify so they can apply right away when applications begin.
High heating bills can put a lot of pressure on families during winter, especially with rising energy costs. The HEAP program offers an important safety net by giving up to $500 in assistance to eligible households.
Even though federal delays are slowing down the release of funds, New York State is fully prepared to launch the program quickly.
Residents who think they might be eligible should stay alert and be ready to apply. This support can make a big difference in staying warm and managing expenses during the coldest months of the year.
FAQs
How much can I get from HEAP?
Eligible New Yorkers can receive up to $500 to help with their heating bills.
When do applications start?
Applications are expected to open on November 24, but final approval depends on federal funding.
Who qualifies for HEAP?
Low-income households, seniors, families with children, and people with disabilities are usually eligible.