Syracuse (WSYR-TV) - Chilly sub-freezing temperatures are the latest reminder winter is coming, and with the changing of seasons, comes higher home heating bills.
Beginning Monday, you can apply for HEAP – the Home Energy Assistance Program – to pay for those bills.
Eligibility requirements, based on income and income guidelines, have changed in 2009.
HEAP is a one-time benefit, and regular benefits range from $40 dollars to $700 dollars, based on things like your income and how many people are in your family.
This year, a family of four with an income as high as $46,837 qualifies; in 2008, that cut-off number was $45,312.
Emergency benefits are also available for people who are in danger of running out of supply or having their power turned off.
People who received HEAP help last year should have received a letter in the mail to apply again this year. New applications can be picked up at the county office building at 600 South State Street. The office is located on the 7th Floor.
Residents can check to see if they are eligible for HEAP, and other benefits, by going to
www.myBenefits.ny.gov.
2008 was a record year in Onondaga County with more than 30,000 households getting some type of heat assistance. Officials are expecting that number to go even higher this year.
