The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) will open on October 1, 2021. This earlier opening date gives the community more opportunity to access the HEAP regular benefit program for heating assistance before the cold weather months begin and utility moratoria end. Earlier access to the HEAP regular benefit program may mean better safety planning for families who are experiencing economic hardship and potentially more opportunity for any emergency benefits that may become available throughout the HEAP program year, if there is a need. HEAP will continue to be a vital source of support for many residents of Erie County as we recover from the pandemic together. It is our mission to make the HEAP program easy to access to all eligible community residents. We are here to help.
Income eligibility guidelines are listed in the table below:
2021-2022 HEAP Eligibility Guidelines
Gross Monthly Income
| Household Size | Maximum Gross Monthly Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,729 |
| 2 | $3,569 |
| 3 | $4,409 |
| 4 | $5,249 |
| 5 | $6,088 |
| 6 | $6,928 |
| 7 | $7,086 |
| 8 | $7,243 |
Residents should apply for HEAP early (beginning Oct. 1, 2021), as HEAP funding is limited. HEAP applications are available in large print, if needed, and the HEAP application is also available in several different languages. Requests for large print HEAP applications and HEAP applications in a different languages may be made at heaphotline@erie.gov. An application will be mailed to you. Generally, residents may apply online, by mail, by fax, or in person. To apply online for HEAP, visit www.mybenefits.ny.gov. Any supporting documentation may be submitted via NYDocSubmit, a free app that now available for download on Google play or Apple App Store. Applicants may also email their name and address to Heaphotline@erie.gov and a paper HEAP application will be sent to them via postal mail.
Completed HEAP applications with supporting documentation may be mailed to: ECDSS, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY 14202, Attention: HEAP. Applicants may also fax completed applications with supporting documentation to (716)858-6765. HEAP applications may be dropped off at 460 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14202, Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm.
Applicants do not need a disconnect notice to be eligible for a regular HEAP benefit. Regular HEAP benefit amounts begin at $350.
If you would like us to come to an outreach event or be present virtually, please contact our outreach staff at heapoutreach@erie.gov. We will be happy to accommodate your request.
Our HEAP phone center is available to assist the public during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00am-4:00pm at (716)858-7644. Outside of regular business hours, the community may call Connect 211 for assistance at 1-888-696-9211.