New York residents struggling to pay winter heating bills can begin applying for assistance under the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) on November 2, 2026. The programme’s 2026–27 regular benefit season is scheduled to open earlier than in some previous years, with higher assistance available for eligible households that rely on certain delivered fuels.
HEAP helps income-eligible homeowners and renters cover the cost of heating their homes. Eligibility depends on factors including household income, immigration status and whether household members receive certain public benefits.
At least one household member must be a US citizen or a qualified non-citizen, and applicants must meet the programme’s income and other eligibility requirements. Households may qualify based on income or participation in programmes such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance or certain categories of Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
The amount of assistance depends on the household’s living arrangements and primary heating source.
Eligible households living in government-subsidised housing or group settings where heating costs are included in the rent may receive $21. Households whose rent includes heating costs may qualify for a benefit of $45 or $50.
For households that pay suppliers directly for heating fuel, the base benefits for the 2026–27 season are:
$990 for eligible households primarily using oil, kerosene or propane.
$700 for eligible households using wood, wood pellets, coal, corn or other delivered fuels.
$400 for eligible households heating their homes with electricity or natural gas and paying based on actual usage.
An additional $35 may be available to eligible households with a member aged 60 or older, a child under six, or a person with a permanent disability.
HEAP generally provides one regular heating benefit per eligible household each season. Being eligible for the programme does not necessarily mean an applicant will receive the maximum amount, as payments depend on the applicable benefit category and programme rules.
Applications are expected to be accepted from November 2. New York City residents can apply through ACCESS HRA, while residents elsewhere in the state can use New York’s MyBenefits portal. Applicants should consult official state or local guidance for current income limits, required documents and application procedures.
Because funding is limited, eligible residents are encouraged to apply once the application period opens.
