Smithtown Center

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is a federally funded initiative designed to help eligible households with their energy expenses. Those who qualify may receive one standard HEAP benefit each program year and might also qualify for emergency HEAP assistance if they risk running out of fuel or having their utility services disconnected. The regular HEAP benefit for the 2024-2025 season started on November 1, 2024, while the first and second emergency benefits are set to open on January 2, 2025. Additionally, the Heating Equipment Repair and Replacement benefit became available on October 1, 2024, and the Cooling Assistance Benefit is expected to open on April 15, 2025.

Application Process: Other low-income households can apply online at www.mybenefitsny.gov or download an application from http://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/apply/ or reach out to a HEAP site for assistance. Emergency HEAP is available for households with a utility disconnection notice, those who have been terminated, or those with less than a 10-day fuel supply. Households receiving Public Assistance or Food Stamps should call (Suffolk 631-853-8820), while non-Public Assistance/Food Stamp households can apply at the HEAP site. For equipment repair or replacement of primary heating systems, applications are also accepted at the HEAP site. The Cooling Assistance program allows for the purchase and installation of one air conditioner per household, with a limit on the amount, or a fan for eligible households. A list of participating HVAC vendors can be obtained from the DSS office. Clients are responsible for the maintenance of the air conditioner, including removal, covering, storage, and reinstallation after vendor installation.

Fees: Clients are advised to call the agency for further details.