Federally funded program designed to help low-income households meet the high cost of home energy. Both those who pay separately for heating costs and households whose heat is included in their rent may be eligible for a one time regular benefit. Additionally, households with a heating emergency may also be eligible for an emergency benefit and and/or a Heating Equipment Repair/Replacement (HERR) benefit. The HEAP year generally begins in mid-November and closes in mid-March or when the program funding is exhausted. There is also a Clean and Tune benefit, which provide energy efficiency services to eligible households prior to the start of the heating season. Such Services may include the cleaning of primary heating equipment, minor repairs, installation of carbon monoxide detector, etc. A cooling component that assists medically needy households with the purchase of air conditioners may also be available during the warmer months. Most benefits are paid directly to the heating/utility vendor. The income guidelines and benefits amounts are subject to change on a yearly basis. Applications for Regular HEAP may be submitted online at myBenefits during the HEAP season. Applicants age 60 and over as well as those who are permanently disabled may apply for regular HEAP by mail to Nassau County Office for the Aging; 60 Charles Lindbergh Blvd. Uniondale, NY 11553; 516-227-7386. All others (including applicants age 60 and over or permanently disabled, with an emergency) may apply in person or by mail to: EAC Inc. 175 Fulton Avenue 4th Floor Hempstead, New York 11550 Phone 516-565-4327. Call for detailed information.