As the weather cools down, it’s important to keep your home properly heated. Whether you heat your home with electricity, heating oil, natural gas, or another source, you may benefit from the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Here’s what you should know about HEAP. 

An Introductory Guide to HEAP

What is HEAP?

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is a federal program that helps low-income households heat their homes. Eligible households can receive one Regular HEAP Benefit per year and may also receive Emergency HEAP Benefits.

What are the benefits of HEAP?

The Regular HEAP Benefit helps households pay energy bills so they can properly heat their homes. The benefit is arranged based on the household’s income, family size, primary heat source, energy costs, and the presence of a household member who is permanently disabled, younger than age 6, or age 60 or over.

The Emergency HEAP Benefit helps households heat their homes when facing a heat or heat-related emergency such as a utility shutoff. The benefit is determined based on the household’s income, the type of emergency, and the resources available.

Who qualifies for HEAP?

As a U.S. citizen or qualified alien, you may be eligible for a Regular HEAP Benefit if your household’s gross monthly income is at or below the HEAP Monthly Income Limits or if you receive SNAP benefits, Temporary Assistance, or Code A Supplementary Security Income.

When you can’t heat your home because your electricity or gas has been shut off, you lack heating oil, or you don’t have deliverable heat sources, you may be eligible for an Emergency HEAP Benefit. If your household’s gross monthly income is at or below the HEAP Monthly Income Limits or you receive Family Assistance, Safety Net Assistance, SNAP benefits, or Code A Supplemental Security Income, you may qualify. Also, the heating or electric bill must be in your name, and your available household resources must be less than $2,000 (or $3,000 if a household member is age 60 or older). 

How do I apply for HEAP?

New York residents can apply for HEAP online. You can also mail the application or apply in-person at your HEAP Local District Contact.

For affordable, reliable heating, turn to Monroe Oil Company in Rochester, NY. Serving households throughout the counties of Monroe, Wayne, and Ontario, this 118-year-old company provides high-quality heating oil to keep homes comfortable and cozy all year long. They also participate in the HEAP program so your family can stay warm and safe no matter how much the temperature drops. Learn more about their fuel delivery services online, and call (585) 244-4080 to discuss your heating oil needs with a friendly team member today.