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HEAP, which is overseen by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, is a federally-funded program that provides up to $625 for eligible households to pay for energy costs in order to keep homes warm during the winter.
"HEAP offers a vital lifeline to the many individuals and families who will struggle to pay their heating bills," Day said. "With winter approaching, it is critical to get this assistance to those who need it most."
Benefits are dependent on income and family size, and payments go directly to the utility company.
Persons over age 60 and the disabled who have not previously received HEAP can apply by calling the County Office for the Aging at (845) 364-2101.
Residents do not have to be facing a shut-off to receive a regular HEAP benefit. The one-time regular benefit ranges from a $30-$35 renters benefit to a maximum of $625 per household for heating with oil, kerosene and propane, and $400 for gas and electric.
Regular HEAP applications will be received between November 16, 2015 and March 15, 2016. During this period, residents can apply online by logging onto www.MyBenefits.ny.gov.
New HEAP applicants will be seen by appointment only. Appointments will not be taken until November 16, 2015.
To request an appointment, call the Department of Social Services at (845) 364-3480 or (845) 364-3212, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
A one-time emergency benefit may also be available for those households that are without the means to pay their bill and who have received a termination notice from their utility provider.
Applications for Emergency HEAP will be accepted from January 4, 2016 through March 15, 2016.
Residents who have received a Termination Notice should fax the notice to the HEAP Unit at (845) 364-3130. Include a contact phone number on the Notice.
Temporary Assistance and SNAP recipients should also include their Temporary Assistance or SNAP Case Number. Individuals will be contacted for a phone interview.
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