Winter is on its way, bringing costly heating and home energy bills to upstate New Yorkers. Don’t get left out in the cold if you are struggling to pay for home heat – you may be eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Based on your household size and income, you could qualify to receive up to $650 to pay for your heating costs this winter.

Starting November 18, you can sign up for HEAP benefits at www.myBenefits.ny.gov, where you will also be able to determine your eligibility for the program.

More than 1.4 million New York households were given HEAP benefits last year.

In addition to regular HEAP benefits, there is also an emergency HEAP program that helps people purchase heating oil if it runs out and prevents home heating systems from being shut off. These emergency situations are handled by local departments of social services. Applications for such services begin January 2, 2014.

Local departments of social services also have programs to help low-income households make repairs and replacements to furnaces, boilers and other heating systems. It is important to ensure that primary heating sources are operational to keep New Yorkers warm and safe.

Times are tough. Jobs are scarce and dollars are stretched thin as fuel and utility costs have increased over the years. Don’t put yourself or your family in danger during a cold winter; help is always available.

If you have any questions or need help, call me at 493-3909.