Assemblyman Joseph Angelino (R,C,I-Norwich) is reminding New Yorkers that enrollment for the state’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) has begun. HEAP helps low-income households pay for home heating costs so New Yorkers, especially seniors on fixed incomes, can stay safe over the winter months in heated homes.

“We have many fixed-income New Yorkers who struggle to keep up with rising heating costs, which is why I urge those eligible to apply for assistance from HEAP,” said Angelino. “This program has done so much to help seniors and low-income families stay safe and warm in their homes over the winter. Please be sure to take advantage of this important program.”

Eligible New Yorkers may receive one regular HEAP benefit per program year and may also be eligible for emergency payments in the event that a home is in danger of running out of fuel. Eligibility is determined by several factors such as income, household size, primary heating source and household members who are either very young or elderly or have a permanent disability. The one-time benefit may be worth up to a maximum of $10,000 per applicant household. Angelino also urges those eligible to apply for the federally-funded Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), which helps renters in difficult financial situations pay their back rent, which is important to help struggling small landlords. The Office of Temporary Disability Assistance (OTDA) is taking applications now for ERAP.

For more information on HEAP and to apply, visit: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap. For further information on ERAP and to apply, visit: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/emergency-rental-assistance.