The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) for the 2018-19 season will be accepting applications starting on November 13. You can pick up an application at the New Lebanon Town Clerk’s Office. If you received a regular benefit last year and are over 60 years old, you should have already received your application. If you are receiving food stamps, you are automatically enrolled in HEAP.
If you would like to apply for HEAP and did not receive it last year, you must have an interview and may opt for an in person or phone interview beginning November 13. To qualify for HEAP you must make under $2,391 per month gross for a household of 1, under $3,127 per month gross for a household of 2, and under $3,863 per month gross for a household of 3.
New applicants must have proof of each household member’s identity, proof of applicant’s social security number and for each household member, proof of residence, proof of fuel and/or utility bill if you pay for heat or proof that you pay rent which includes heat, and proof of income for all household members. If you need assistance applying you can contact Columbia Opportunities (if under 60 years old) at 518-828-4611 or Office for the Aging (if over 60 years old) at 518-828-4258. You can also contact the Department of Social Services at 518-828-9411 with any questions. You can also apply online at www.mybenefits.ny.gov. For more information about HEAP go to http://www.ny.gov/services/apply-heap.
If you are eligible for HEAP, you may also be eligible for the Columbia Opportunities Inc. Weatherization Program. COI provides energy audits to eligible homeowners and renters to find the best way to make their homes more energy efficient. Weatherization measures – such as furnace repair or replacement, wall and attic insulation, air sealing, energy efficient refrigerators – are installed to make residences safe, comfortable and less expensive to heat. Most people see a 20% reduction in their home heating bills after the weatherization work is done! Please call 518-8282-4611 or 518-672-7268 for more information and an application.