Relief increased for heating season

HEAP benefit applications open November 2

Those tiptoeing around the thermostat due to rising fuel costs may find some relief ahead even as the average price of residential heating oil in New York State rockets to an average $6.21 per gallon, compared to an average of $3.72 per gallon this time last year, according to data from the New York State Energy Research and Development Agency.

“The price of heating oil is now 67 percent higher. The cost of kerosene is up 50 percent. So in response, New York State is increasing the heat benefit for eligible families to have kerosene and oil and other types of fuel delivered to their homes,” Governor Kathy Hochul announced.

Beginning November 2, if you heat your home with oil, propane, natural gas, electric, coal, wood or wood pellets, depending on your income, household size, heating source and eligibility, there may be state benefits available to offset heating costs this year with eligible households receive hundreds of dollars to help cover heating costs this winter, which is expected to be active, according to local forecasters.

“This winter in the Hudson Valley will coincide with the strongest El Niño on record … affecting chances for rain, snow, and cold temperatures — starting with a transition to stormier weather in November,” Meteorologist Ben Noll recently said as part of his 2026-27 winter outlook.

For the 2026–2027 season, base Regular HEAP benefits for eligible households that pay directly for heat include $400 for natural gas or electricity and $990 for oil or propane, Rockland County officials said. Additional amounts may be available based on household income and the presence of a vulnerable household member. Benefits are generally paid directly to the household’s heating supplier.

Your household may be eligible for a Regular HEAP benefit if:

  • A member of your household is a United States Citizen or Qualified Non-Citizen

  • Your household's gross monthly income is at or below the current income guidelines for your household size or

  • You receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits or

  • You receive federally funded Temporary Assistance (TA), also known as Public Assistance (PA) or

  • You receive Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI Living Alone)

If you are eligible, you may receive one regular HEAP benefit per program year and could also be eligible for emergency HEAP benefits if you are in danger of running out of fuel or having your utility service shut off.  Both renters and homeowners may qualify.

“Many New Yorkers automatically receive heat benefits,” the governor said. “But there's others who still need to apply, and some people aren't sure if they qualify, so you might be surprised: Families of four earning up to $82,000 can now qualify for HEAP.”

The HEAP benefit program opens November 2, 2026 and closes April 16, 2027 or when funds are exhausted.


Visit NY.gov/HEAP to learn more about eligibility and how to apply.


Additional source: https://www.rocklandcountyny.gov/Home/Components/News/News/1383/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery



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Information for everyday living in the Hudson Valley, New York • hvny.info

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