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COOLING ASSISTANCE HEAP BENEFIT Program

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Cooling Assistance benefit helps eligible New York City residents stay safe during extreme heat by providing an air conditioner or fan.

 

This program is available to both tenants and homeowners in New York City.

 

If eligible, each household may receive one Cooling Assistance benefit per program year to cover the purchase and installation of either:

 

  • An air conditioner, or

  • A fan (if an air conditioner cannot be safely installed)

 

The maximum benefit amount is up to $800 (including installation). No additional cash benefits are provided under this program.

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Eligibility Requirements

 

You may qualify for HEAP Cooling Assistance if your household meets one or more of the following conditions:

 

  • Household gross monthly income is at or below the current HEAP income guidelines for your household size

  • You receive SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits

  • You receive Temporary Assistance (TA)

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

  • Your household includes a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen

  • A household member has a medical condition that is worsened by extreme heat

  • You received a HEAP regular benefit greater than $21 in the current program year

  • You do not currently have a working air conditioner, or your unit is five years old or older

  • You have not received a HEAP-funded air conditioner within the past 10 years

 

All applicants must submit documentation and apply through their local Department of Social Services.

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Getting the air conditioner installed

 

A participating Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) vendor list can be obtained by contacting your HEAP Local District Contact. 

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Please note: 

  • It is the household’s responsibility to maintain the air conditioner after installation

  • This includes removal, covering, storage, and reinstalling when needed

 

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How to Apply

 

Your household eligibility requirements include filing an application with your local department of social services, providing all necessary documentation, and the household must reside in an eligible living situation. Applications for HEAP Cooling Assistance must be submitted through your local HEAP office.

 

Where to apply

 

You may apply for the HEAP Cooling Assistance with your 

More information and application guidance is available here:

HEAP Cooling Assistance Benefit (NYC Access)⁠

 

You may also contact:

 

 

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2025–2026 HEAP Income Guidelines (Monthly Gross Income)

 

Eligibility is based on total household income:

 

  • 1 person: $3,473

  • 2 people: $4,542

  • 3 people: $5,611

  • 4 people: $6,680

  • 5 people: $7,749

  • 6 people: $8,818

  • Each additional person: +$686​

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Need Help?

Questions regarding the HEAP program should be directed to your HEAP Local District Contact or📞 Call your local HEAP office or NYS Hotline: 1-800-342-3009
🌐 Visit:  HEAP Program Overview

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