Nearly 2.5 million households across New York state may now qualify for discounts on their utility bills under expanded eligibility rules for the state’s Energy Affordability Program, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Tuesday.
According to Hochul, the revised eligibility criteria, which took effect in January, could extend the program’s benefits to nearly half of all households in the state.
About 1 million New Yorkers currently participate in the program. Under the expanded rules, that number could rise to roughly 2.5 million. Both homeowners and renters are eligible to apply.
In New York City, a two-person household with an annual income below $129,600 may qualify for discounts on utility bills from companies such as Con Edison and National Grid. The income threshold rises to $162,000 for a four-person household.
Income limits are somewhat higher on Long Island, while they are generally lower in other parts of the state.
The amount of the discount varies depending on the utility provider and a household’s income. Eligible households could receive up to $500 in annual savings on their utility bills.
Residents who qualify must submit an application to receive the benefit. People already receiving government assistance, including SNAP and Medicaid, may also qualify, but they must apply separately for the utility discount.
Meanwhile, New York is also set to provide a one-time $200 utility rebate this fall as part of efforts to reduce household energy costs.
Hochul said approximately 8.2 million households statewide will be eligible for the one-time rebate.
