Struggling To Pay Your Heating Bill? Help Is Available

As colder temperatures descend on our area, reliable heat is absolutely essential.

Paying for heat is a serious concern for many working families, senior citizens, and others living on fixed incomes. Fuel costs can break a budget, especially during a long winter.

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), which is federally funded, provides relief to those struggling with heating costs. Whether you rent or own, HEAP is available for low-income New Yorkers who need assistance. Please share this information with anyone you think might need it.

HEAP is a first-come, first-served benefit. Eligibility is based on several factors, including household size, primary heating source, and the age of household members. In 2015, more than 1.4 million households across New York State received help from HEAP.

HEAP can assist with the costs of a variety of heat sources, including electricity, natural gas, propane, wood, oil and kerosene. Qualifying households can also receive assistance in repairing or replacing damaged or non-functioning heating equipment, including furnaces and boilers.

How to Apply
Enrollment for HEAP is currently open. You can get application materials here, or by calling (800) 692-0557, or by visiting the closest HEAP field office.

Coney Island: 3050 W. 21st Street, 3rd floor
Fort Greene: 503 Clermont Avenue, 2nd floor
Boerum Hill: 88 3rd Avenue, 1st floor
Downtown Brooklyn: 1 MetroTech Center, lobby
Brownsville: 1535 Pitkin Avenue, lobby

IMPORTANT: Homebound persons can call a local Heat Line at (212) 331-3150 to get HEAP assistance. Any New Yorker can call 311 for more information about emergency heat and utility assistance.

If you are having trouble applying for HEAP, or other types of government assistance, contact local Assemblymember Pamela Harris at (718) 266-0267 or (347) 560-6302.