Applications for the 2026–27 season of HEAP, New York State's heating assistance program for low-income households, opened Nov. 2. The base benefit for households that rely on delivered oil, kerosene or propane rises by $90 to $990, and a four-person household can apply with a monthly income of $6,852 or less.
Applications for the 2026–27 season of the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), New York State's heating assistance program for low-income households, opened Monday, Nov. 2. Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the plan on the 16th, saying she had directed state agencies to raise benefits for households that get fuel deliveries in response to rising heating oil prices.
According to the state, the base benefit for households that rely on delivered oil, kerosene or propane rises by $90 to $990. The base benefit for households that use firewood, pellets or coal rises by $65 to $700. Households that pay for heat directly and have income at or below 130% of the federal poverty level receive an additional $61, and those with a member who is 60 or older, under 6, or permanently disabled receive an additional $35. Amounts vary by income, household size and heating source, and are not guaranteed to every applicant.
Income Limits and Automatic Benefits
For a four-person household, gross income must be $6,852 or less per month ($82,230 per year). More than 1.1 million households whose eligibility has been verified through programs such as SNAP or Public Assistance will receive benefits automatically, without a separate application. More than 1.5 million HEAP benefits were issued last heating season, and a similar number is expected this winter.
How and When to Apply
Households that are not automatically enrolled can apply online at ny.gov/HEAP, or submit an application by mail or in person at the social services department of their county or city. Seniors can get help applying from their local office for the aging or from NY Connects (1-800-342-9871). Regular HEAP benefits are available once per season and are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Applications for Emergency HEAP, for households at risk of running out of fuel or having their utilities shut off, open Jan. 4, 2027. Homeowners can also ask their social services department about help with cleaning and inspecting their primary heating equipment, or repairing or replacing equipment that is broken.