Heating Assistance Program Open for Applications

The Suffolk County Office of Aging has begun processing applications for HEAP, the Home Energy Assistance Program,  Legislator Tom Donnelly said.

“Our most vulnerable neighbors should never have to choose between heating their homes and putting food on the table,” Legislator Donnelly said.  “Luckily, HEAP will again provide much needed assistance to Suffolk County seniors struggling to cover their expenses.”

Depending on the primary heating source, qualifying homeowners can receive a basic HEAP benefit of between $350 and $751 for oil, propane, kerosene, natural gas or electricity.  Renters can receive a benefit of $45 or $50.  Each year, thousands of Suffolk County households receive assistance through HEAP.  Assistance is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis while available.

Households that received a benefit in last year’s program should have already received their applications.  Individuals who have not previously received the benefit and wish to submit a new application to the Office for the Aging must meet one of the following conditions:

  • Age 60 or older, or
  • Under 60 and receiving Social Security Disability, or
  • Under 60 and receiving Supplemental Security Income Code A

To request an application, call the Office for the Aging HEAP Hotline at (631) 853-8326.

Applicants who do not meet the Office for the Aging guidelines may still qualify based on HEAP Tier Income Guidelines for income and household size. A family’s gross monthly household income must be at or below the poverty standards set by New York State for HEAP. For more information or maximum monthly income levels for larger households, call the Department of Social Services HEAP Unit at (631) 853-8820. For heating and utility emergencies after business hours and on weekends, call the Department of Social Services at (631) 854-9100.

 

“I urge all residents who qualify or even think they may qualify to apply for this vital assistance,” Donnelly said.

 

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