IMPORTANT: Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Opens Nov 2 - Apply Online

APPLY HERE: nyc.gov/accesshra

Keeping Harlem Warm This Winter: Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Opens November 2

HARLEM, NY — As winter approaches, New York State Senator Cordell Cleare is encouraging District 30 residents and families across Harlem and Upper Manhattan to take advantage of the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). The program officially opens on November 2, offering direct financial aid to help low- and middle-income households cover heating bills and utility costs.

Highlighting the critical need for heating relief across District 30, Senator Cordell Cleare stated:

"Access to safe, affordable heating is a matter of health, dignity, and basic human necessity. As weather extremes continue to put financial strain on our families, we must ensure that all older New Yorkers, working families, and residents in our community receive the relief they deserve to keep their homes warm this winter."

In announcing the statewide program opening, Governor Kathy Hochul stated:

"While Trump and Washington Republicans keep driving up fuel and utility costs, I'm staying focused on helping New Yorkers keep more money in their pockets. As the weather gets colder, my administration is ensuring New Yorkers can utilize the Home Energy Assistance Program to help heat their homes and address rising costs."

Key Program Benefits & Guidelines

• Direct Assistance Amounts: Eligible households can receive up to $990 in assistance for delivered heating fuels (oil, kerosene, or propane) and up to $700 for other heating sources.
• Automatic Benefits for Many Households: Over 1.1 million New Yorkers receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Public Assistance (PA) will receive their HEAP benefits automatically without needing to file a separate application.
• Broad Income Eligibility: HEAP is designed to support working families and older adults alike. A family of four earning up to $82,230 annually (or $6,852 per month) qualifies for financial assistance.

How New York City Residents Can Apply

• Direct NYC Application Portal: New York City residents who do not receive automatic benefits can submit an application online starting November 2 through ACCESS HRA at nyc.gov/accesshra.
• Statewide Overview & Resources: Learn more about state HEAP guidelines and criteria at ny.gov/HEAP.
• Assistance for Older Adults: Seniors seeking support with their applications can contact the NY Connects Helpline at 1-800-342-9871 or reach out to their local office for the aging.

Need Help? Contact Senator Cleare's District Office

Constituents needing guidance, application support, or information on other community programs are encouraged to contact Senator Cleare’s District Office:

• Location: 163 West 125th Street, Suite 912, New York, NY 10027
• Phone: (212) 222-7315
• Website: cleare.nysenate.gov