Summer in the city is brutal. We all know the feeling of a sweltering July afternoon on a crowded subway platform. But you definitely shouldn’t have to suffer through that kind of heat inside your own apartment.
With New Yorkers expected to pay the highest summer energy bill prices in recent history starting this June, keeping cool is becoming a massive financial burden.
Rising temperatures and utility rate adjustments are pushing NYC’s total seasonal cost to a projected $790 average.
If you are worried about staying cool and keeping costs down, the 2026 HEAP Summer Cooling Assistance program is officially open. It provides serious financial help to cover the cost and installation of an air conditioner or fan.
Here is everything you need to know to claim your free unit.
What the benefit actually covers
This program is a total lifesaver for eligible households. It covers the full cost of one air conditioner or fan. That includes the unit itself, installation, materials, labor, and even the removal of your broken or old unit.
Depending on your living space, you can receive:
- Up to $800 for a standard window unit, portable air conditioner, or fan.
- Up to $1,000 for an existing wall sleeve unit.
Keep in mind that these benefits are entirely first come, first serve. There are no additional HEAP cash benefits available, so you will want to act fast before the funds run dry.
Who qualifies for a free unit?
The program is designed to protect those who need it most. To qualify, you must be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen (such as a Green Card holder, refugee, or asylee).
You also need to meet one of these two financial requirements:
- Meet income limits: For a single-person household, the maximum gross monthly income is $3,473. For a two-person household, it is $4,542.
- Receive other benefits: You qualify if you currently receive SNAP (food stamps), Cash Assistance, Code A SSI, or a HEAP Regular Benefit over $21.
On top of the financial criteria, someone in your household must meet a health or age requirement. They must have a documented medical condition worsened by extreme heat, be age 60 or older, or be under age 6.
Finally, you cannot currently have a working air conditioner, unless your current unit is at least five years old. You also cannot have received a HEAP-funded unit in the past five years.
How to apply right now
Don’t wait until the next major heatwave strikes. You can apply online through ACCESS HRA.
Simply log in or create an account. You can easily scan and upload all your required documents—like your proof of residence, income, identity, and medical condition—using the free ACCESS HRA mobile app. You can also check your application status right from your phone.
If you prefer to speak to a real person, you can call 718-557-1399. They can help answer questions about your eligibility, the application process, and documentation. You can also visit the NYS OTDA website for a deeper dive into the program.
