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Utility Assistance in New York (2026)

LIHEAP, shutoff protection, no-deposit electricity, and assistance programs for New York residents

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Quick Answer

Yes, New York residents can get help paying utility bills through the federal LIHEAP program administered by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA). The average electric bill in New York is $125/month. Heating assistance averages Average $600-$900 per household per year (higher in NYC). No credit check, no criminal background check required.

Call 1-800-342-3009 or dial 211 to apply.

New York Utility Assistance at a Glance

$125

Avg. Electric Bill/Mo

Yes

LIHEAP Available

Yes

Winter Moratorium

5

Assistance Programs

LIHEAP in New York

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in New York is administered by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA). LIHEAP helps low-income households pay their heating and cooling bills. There are no criminal background checks -- people with felony records, those on probation or parole, and formerly incarcerated individuals all qualify based on income alone.

Administering AgencyNew York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA)
Phone1-800-342-3009
WebsiteVisit website
Income Limit60% of State Median Income
Heating AssistanceAverage $600-$900 per household per year (higher in NYC)
Cooling AssistanceHEAP Cooling Assistance provides fans and AC units
Crisis AssistanceEmergency HEAP for shutoff prevention and fuel delivery
WeatherizationAvailable

Utility Shutoff Protections in New York

New York prohibits gas and electric shutoffs from November 1 through April 15 for households that qualify as cold weather protected (income at or below 60% SMI, receive HEAP, or are elderly/disabled). One of the broadest protections in the country.

Winter Moratorium

Yes

Medical Protection

Yes

Senior Protection

Yes

No-Deposit Electricity Options in New York

Con Edison, National Grid, and NYSEG offer budget billing and deposit alternatives. New York's Home Energy Fair Practices Act (HEFPA) strictly limits deposit amounts and requires utilities to offer payment plans. Low-income customers can access Energy Affordability Policy bill discounts.

New York Utility Assistance Programs

  • HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program)
  • NY Energy Affordability Policy (EAP) -- bill discounts
  • NY Weatherization Assistance
  • EmPower NY (free energy efficiency improvements)
  • Con Edison / National Grid low-income programs

How to Apply for Utility Assistance in New York

  1. 1

    Check if You Qualify

    Your household income must be at or below 60% of State Median Income. You also qualify automatically if you receive SNAP (food stamps), SSI, TANF, or certain other benefits. There is no criminal background check. Call 211 to check eligibility.

  2. 2

    Gather Your Documents

    You will need proof of identity (state ID, driver's license), proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, benefit award letters), a recent utility bill, and proof of address. Social Security numbers for all household members are typically required.

  3. 3

    Contact Your Local Agency

    Apply through the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) by calling 1-800-342-3009, visiting their website, or contacting your local Community Action Agency. You can also call 211 to find the nearest office.

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    Apply in person, by mail, or online (if available in New York). Most states process applications during the heating season (October through May). Funds are limited, so apply as early as possible. Crisis assistance may be available year-round.

  5. 5

    Receive Your Benefit

    LIHEAP payments are sent directly to your utility company or fuel vendor. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. If you have a shutoff notice, mention it -- crisis assistance can be expedited within 48 hours. Also ask about weatherization services to permanently lower your energy costs.

New York Utility Commission

The New York Public Service Commission (PSC) regulates utilities in New York. If you have a dispute with your utility company about billing, deposits, or shutoffs, you can file a complaint.

Website: New York Public Service Commission (PSC)

Complaint phone: 1-800-342-3377

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for LIHEAP utility assistance in New York?
Contact your local Community Action Agency or call 211 to apply for LIHEAP in New York. Most states accept applications during the heating season (October through May), and some operate year-round. You can also apply through your state's LIHEAP administering agency. Bring proof of income, a recent utility bill, and ID. There is no criminal background check.
Can I get help with my electric bill in New York if I have a criminal record?
Yes. LIHEAP and most utility assistance programs in New York do not run criminal background checks. Eligibility is based on your household income (generally 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) or participation in programs like SNAP, SSI, or TANF. People with felony records, those on probation or parole, and formerly incarcerated individuals all qualify.
What is the average electric bill in New York?
The average residential electric bill in New York is approximately $125 per month. Your actual bill depends on usage, the size of your home, heating/cooling needs, and your utility provider. If your bill is more than 6% of your household income, you have a high energy burden and likely qualify for assistance.
Can my utilities be shut off in New York during winter?
New York has winter shutoff protections that restrict or prohibit utility disconnections during cold weather months. Additional protections may apply to elderly, disabled, and medically vulnerable households. Contact your utility company or the state utility commission if you receive a shutoff notice during the protected period.

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Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal or financial advice. Program details, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts may vary and are subject to change. LIHEAP funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis in many states. Always confirm current information directly with your state agency, utility company, or local Community Action Agency. If you need immediate help, call 211 for local assistance or contact your utility company about hardship programs before your service is disconnected.

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