Seniors encouraged to apply for HEAP

Erie County senior residents are invited to apply for the Home Energy Assistance Program benefit as soon as possible.

HEAP is a federally funded program designed to help eligible households with the cost of home heating. In August, NYS directly mailed applications for the upcoming 2007-08 season to seniors who received HEAP last season. However, seniors who already receive temporary assistance and/or food stamps need not apply, as HEAP benefits for these recipients are calculated automatically and will appear on their heating bill in December or January.

Seniors age 60 or older who did not receive an application in late August, or who are first-time applicants, can call the Senior HEAP hotline at 858-7870 after Oct. 1 to request an application, or visit www.erie.gov/depts/seniorservices for more information.

HEAP benefits are based on household monthly income, not on the amount of the utility bill, so applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible and not to wait until heating bills climb as winter sets in. Benefits range from $40 (for those with heat included in their rent) to $540 (for those who pay heating bills directly).