HEAP: How to get help heating one’s home this winter

Dutchess County — Just in time for winter, the Dutchess County Department of Community and Family Services (DCFS) is now accepting applications for Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) benefits to assist low-income residents with the cost of heat and energy-related expenses.

While there’s a greater need for HEAP benefits during the winter season, the federally funded program is an ongoing one. Benefits are personalized to meet the applicant’s needs, though the amount saved through the program varies based on needs and income.

Eligibility for HEAP benefits is determined by income. For example, a household of one cannot exceed $2,318 in monthly income while a two-person household has an income cut off of $3,031. The cut off increases with household size to a total of $6,733 for a household of 11 people, and by $523 per person thereafter. 

Other qualifications include  household size, primary heating source and the composition of household. For instance, individuals who are permanently disabled, under 6 years of age or are 60 and older are considered vulnerable and therefore prioritized. 

Other eligibility requirements allow for households that receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, have a gross monthly income at or below the current income guides per household size, receive Temporary Assistance (TA) or receive Code A Supplemental Security Income.

“The best advice I give to anyone who wants to know if they qualify for this assistance is to log onto MyBenefits to see if they are eligible,” said DCFS Commissioner Sabrina Jaar Marzouka.

For more information, Dutchess County applicants are encouraged to reach out to their HEAP contacts, including the Dutchess County Department of Social Services in Poughkeepsie at 845-486-3249 and in Millbrook at 845-677-5532. Applicants may also contact Dutchess County Office for the Aging at 845-486-2553, Dutchess County Community Action at 845-452-5104 and the After Hours Emergency Contact at 845-437-0050.

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