HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (HEAP) | ALBANY COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES

Provides financial assistance to help low-income households meet home energy costs.

Regular Benefits range from $20 to $500. Amounts depend on income, age of household members, energy costs, and shelter situation. Typically it is a one-time only benefit during the program year.

Emergency Benefits are available for persons who are eligible for HEAP and have an energy-related emergency, such as a power shutoff, less than tank oil, kerosene, or propane, or less than ten days' supply of wood, pellets, or coal. Applicant households must meet a resource test. Benefit amounts vary. Typically it is a one-time only benefit during the program year.

Heating Equipment Repair or Replacement Benefits are available to repair or replace a furnace, boiler, or other direct heating equipment necessary to keep the home's primary heating source working.

Cooling Assistance Benefits are available to purchase and install an air conditioner or a fan to help keep the home cool. Individuals must have already received a regular benefit greater than $21 and have a documented medical condition that is exacerbated by heat.

Clean and Tune Benefits are available to clean the household's primary heating equipment but may also include chimney cleaning, minor repairs, installation of carbon monoxide detectors or programmable thermostats, if needed, to allow for the safe, proper, and efficient operation of the heating equipment. Benefit amounts are based on the actual cost incurred to provide clean and tune services, up to a maximum of $400.

Physical Address

162 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12210

Hours

Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Application process

Apply for regular HEAP benefits online at www.mybenefits.ny.gov or in person with Cornell Cooperative Extension at Albany Offices; telephone interviews are available

Fee

None

Eligibility

Albany County residents depending on income, age of household members, energy costs and shelter situations

Languages

Spanish

Agency info

ALBANY COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES

Provide various programs and services to Albany County residents, including Temporary Assistance, SNAP, HEAP, Child Care subsidy, Child Support Enforcement, Medicaid for long term care, and Adult Protective services.