State offers savings programs
New York State offers assistance for homeowners who struggle with energy costs over the winter. They include:
• Home Energy Assistance Program: HEAP provides up to $976 to homeowners and renters depending on income and household size (e.g., a family of four with a maximum monthly gross income of $5,838, or about $70,000 annually). See otda.ny.gov.
• Energy Affordability Program: This initiative provides income-eligible consumers with a discount on their monthly electric and/or gas bills. New Yorkers can be enrolled automatically if they receive benefits from a government assistance program. See dps.ny.gov/winter.
• New York Energy Advisor: This site helps income-eligible New Yorkers locate programs to get help paying utility bills and receive offers on heating assistance. See energyadvisor.ny.gov.
A virtual home heating fair will be offered on Jan. 11 at 1:30 p.m. To participate, click here or, on the day of the event, visit webex.com and enter using webinar ID 2346 470 8615 and password Jan11-130pm.