New York State has depleted its $360 million allocation of federal funds intended to help low- and moderate-income households cover heating costs. Typically, this funding, distributed through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), lasts until mid-March. This year, however, applications for regular HEAP benefits were halted Tuesday after the funds ran out earlier than expected.
Early Depletion of Funds Impacts Households Statewide
The sudden exhaustion of HEAP funds underscores the mounting struggles of households to keep up with heating bills amid rising costs and severe winter conditions. Last year, New York distributed $397 million to 1.7 million households, with more than 70,000 beneficiaries in Central New York alone, including 42,000 in Onondaga County.
Eligibility for regular HEAP benefits required an annual income of no more than $39,874 for a single person or $76,681 for a family of four. The assistance ranged from $400 to $996 per household, depending on factors such as heating fuel type and household size.
Despite these measures, 234,000 National Grid customers in Upstate New York were at least 60 days behind on their bills as of December, collectively owing $309 million—highlighting the ongoing financial strain on residents.
Emergency Heap Benefits Remain Available
While the regular HEAP fund is depleted, a separate reserve for emergency HEAP benefits is still accessible. These funds are designated for households facing imminent disconnection of utilities or with less than a 10-day supply of heating fuel.
Residents in Onondaga County can apply for emergency assistance by contacting the social services department at 315-435-8295. Individuals in other counties should reach out to their local social services offices for support.
Additional Resources for Struggling Customers
Utility providers like National Grid offer additional programs to assist income-qualified customers. Those in need are encouraged to contact National Grid’s consumer advocacy line at 800-642-4272 for help.
Officials from the New York Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA), which administers the HEAP program, have not yet explained why this year’s funds were depleted so rapidly. With winter far from over, many New Yorkers are left in a precarious position, highlighting the urgent need for expanded support to address the heating crisis.
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