Governor Hochul signs measure to expand access to home heating aid for senior citizens
ALBANY, NY- Governor Hochul has signed legislation that will increase the accessibility of home heating aid and help identify more seniors who are eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) — a federal program available to New Yorkers implemented to help low-income homeowners and renters afford costs associated with heating and cooling.
Through this legislation, applicants and participants of the Elderly Pharmaceutical Coverage Program (EPIC) will be provided information and instructions for enrollment in HEAP.
"Programs like HEAP help put money back in the pockets of hard-working New Yorkers, helping heat their homes in the dead of winter,” Governor Hochul said.
“From raising the minimum wage to our proposed inflation refund checks, we’re doing everything we can to tackle the affordability crisis head-on.”
Back in November, Governor Hochul announced that additional funding was available for seniors and low and middle-income households to help lower their heat and energy bills.
According to the Governor’s Office, HEAP can provide up to $996 to eligible households and has put over $397 million back in the pockets of New Yorkers.
“Governor Hochul understands that having a safe and comfortable home, protected from the elements, is a social determinant of health that is foundational to improved health outcomes," said New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald.
"New York sees some of the coldest temperatures during the winter and this important legislation will ensure New York’s most vulnerable senior citizens are safeguarded from the cold without facing the added costs of heating their homes.”
Applications for the Regular HEAP benefit opened Nov. 1, 2024. Details available hereDetails available here.
Seniors who require assistance filling out their HEAP applications can contact their local office for the aging or the NY Connects helpline at 1-800-342-9871.
Image via the office of New York Governor Kathy Hochul.
