Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

Important Update: 2025–2026 HEAP Regular Benefit Opening Delayed

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Regular Benefit for the 2025–2026 program year has been delayed until further notice.
What You Need to Know

  • The delay is due to the ongoing federal government shutdown and the absence of a federal budget for the current program year.
  • The previously announced opening date of November 17 is no longer valid.
  • A new opening date will be announced once federal funding is approved.

Early Outreach Applications

  • Local districts can continue to accept Early Outreach Applications at this time.
  • Applications that are approved will be held until the program officially opens and federal funds become available.

If You Have a Heating or Utility Emergency

  • Before HEAP opens, households with an energy emergency should contact Tompkins County DSS to request help through the Public Assistance (PA) program.
  • For individuals receiving PA or SNAP, emergency eligibility will be reviewed as if HEAP is not currently available.

Stay Informed For the most current updates, visit the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA)website: otda.ny.gov

 

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
(607) 274-5264

  • This Federal program helps low-income households meet the high costs of home energy.
  • Income and resource eligibility standards change annually.
  • A single annual benefit based on the household’s method of heating is provided.
  • Emergency assistance is also available.

Information about the rights of applicants/recipients of this and other public assistance programs which our department administers locally can be found online.

Back to top