New York State has opened applications for its Cooling Assistance Benefit under the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), providing eligible households with financial assistance to purchase and install an air conditioner or receive a fan ahead of the summer season. Applications began on April 15th, as officials prepared for rising temperatures and increased demand for cooling support across the state.
The program offers one cooling unit per eligible household, covering the cost of a window, portable, or wall sleeve air conditioner, or a fan when installation of an air conditioner is not possible. Benefits include installation services, minor repairs needed for safe setup, removal of old units, and related program costs. Assistance is capped at up to $800 for portable or window units, including installation, and up to $1,000 for existing wall sleeve units. Funding is limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Eligibility:
- Household gross monthly income at or below HEAP income guidelines by household size
- Receipt of SNAP benefits
- Receipt of Temporary Assistance (TA)
- Receipt of Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI Living Alone)
- Receipt of a HEAP Regular benefit under qualifying conditions in the current program year
- Household includes a person aged 60 or older
- Household includes a child under age 6
- Household includes a person with a medical condition worsened by extreme heat (medical verification required)
- At least one household member is a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen
- Household does not currently have a working air conditioner, or unit is five years old or older
- Household has not received a HEAP-funded air conditioner within the past five years
- Household meets residency and documentation requirements set by local social services offices
Required Documents:
- Proof of residence
- Proof of income
- Proof of identity
- Social Security information
- Medical documentation (if applicable)
How to Apply:
- Online (New York City residents): access.nyc.gov
- By phone: contact local HEAP district office
- In person: visit local HEAP district office
Contact Information:
- Phone: 1-800-342-3009
- Email: nysheap@otda.ny.gov
Officials encourage early applications due to limited funding and high seasonal demand as temperatures continue to rise statewide.
