Low-Income New Yorkers can Apply for Air Conditioning Units and Installation, Starting May 1

By Yehudit Garmaise

Low-income New Yorkers can stay cool this summer, thanks to New York’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

Eligible households, which must meet the HEAP income thresholds, are those that include children under  the age of 6, adults over the age of 60, or one resident who has a documented medical condition that is negatively affected by extreme heat. A household of four can earn up to $65,829 a year, or $5,485 per month, and still qualify.

The $15 million program covers the cost of one air conditioning unit and installation. 

Up to 18,500 households are expected to be served throughout the state, but New Yorkers should apply early because air conditioning units will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Starting May 1, New Yorkers can apply for air conditioners and installation until Aug. 31: or until funding runs out.

New York City residents may apply in person at a local HRA Benefit Access Center, by phone, or online  at access.nyc.gov. Residents outside of New York City may apply by contacting their local departments of social services by phone or in person.