Heat and Utility Bill Assistance

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Alert

Utility companies cannot disconnect service for non-payment to any qualifying customer financially impacted by COVID-19 through December 21, 2021. Contact your utility company for more information.

Currently, you don't need to apply for Emergency Assistance (a One-Shot-Deal) if you are unable to pay your bill. Utility companies cannot shut off your service if your bill is unpaid, even if you received a shut-off notice that states your service will end.

If you have received an electric, gas, or heating disconnect notice, you may be eligible for emergency financial assistance.

Resources are also available for qualified households that have a low supply of heating fuel or a broken boiler or furnace.

You can get more information and assistance by phone.

Agency: Human Resources Administration
Phone Number: (718) 557-1399
Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 8 AM - 5 PM
Staff is available through the automated phone system during business hours. Automated assistance is also available in Cantonese, Mandarin, Russian, and Spanish. Most languages are available through a staff person.

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps low-income homeowners and renters pay for utility and heating bills.

HEAP is a seasonal program. You must re-apply each year and meet the qualifications to receive a HEAP benefit.

The 2021-2022 HEAP application season is open and is scheduled to run until March 15, 2022 or until the funding for Regular HEAP benefits run out, whichever happens first.

You can request a paper application by phone or download and print one from the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) website.

Mail your completed and signed HEAP application, along with copies of supporting documents, to:

NYC DSS/HRA/HEAP
PO Box 1401
Church Street Station
New York, NY 10008

If you are homebound, you may request a home visit to apply for HEAP. A person is considered to be homebound if, due to physical or mental illness, they are unable to leave home without assistance or escort.

HEAP recipients can use HEAP approval letters as documentation to support Con Ed reduced rate programs and Verizon Lifeline.

Online

Learn more about the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

Download the HEAP application from the OTDA website.

By Phone

Call 311 for assistance.

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