New Yorkers Can Claim Nearly $1,000 To Cover Their Winter Heating Bills — How To Apply in 5 Minutes Before Energy Bill Funding Runs Out

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A surprise to no one, it’s been freezing this winter, and you’ve probably seen that reflected in your Con Edison utility bills.

Thanks to below-freezing temperatures and even a hike from New York State legislators just last month on both gas and electric service, you’ve more than likely felt the blow hitting your wallet by now.

Even the past month or so, many New Yorkers have felt at least an extra $20 being tacked on to their total, an annoying dilemma that seems like is only going to get more expensive over the coming months and years.

How much is the average electric bill in NYC?

If your last bill made you double-take, you aren’t alone.

According to the latest February 2026 data from SaveOnEnergy, the average monthly electric bill in New York State is approximately $151.26.

While that might sound manageable on paper, the devil is in the details for NYC residents.

New Yorkers actually pay some of the highest energy rates in the country at 26.49 cents per kWh—well above the national average of 17.78 cents.

Because many city apartments are smaller, our total usage (averaging 571 kWh) keeps the bill from being the highest in the nation, but the moment the heat (or AC) kicks on, those high rates cause totals to skyrocket.

The $1,000 lifeline

But there’s a massive (and often overlooked) financial lifeline currently open that could wipe out a significant chunk of your Con Edison or heating bill.

The state’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is currently handing out grants of up to $1,000, but the window to claim your share is closing, especially as spring creeps closer and closer.

Here are all the details on the program and what you need to know about securing the bag before the deadline.

It’s part of a state-funded program designed to help New Yorkers cover the sky-high costs of heating their homes during the winter.

While the “Regular Benefit” usually lands between $400 and $585 for those with gas or electric heat, households that use “deliverable fuels” (like oil or propane) can see that number climb to $996.

Plus, if your household includes a “vulnerable member”—someone under age 6, over age 60, or with a disability—you’re eligible for an automatic “add-on” to increase your total credit.

The deadline is coming: Why you can’t wait until April 7

Technically, the application window stays open until April 7, 2026.

However, and this is a big “however, “the program operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

If the state’s funding runs dry in March (which has happened in previous years), the door slams shut early.

This means if you’re staring at a mounting Con Ed balance, you’ll want to get your digital paperwork in ASAP!

“I probably make too much money” … Think again, the eligibility is wide-ranging

The biggest myth about HEAP is that it’s only for those on SNAP or public assistance, but that’s actually not true.

In 2026, the income tiers are surprisingly generous to include the “working middle class.” Check it out:

• Single-person households can earn up to $3,473/month (gross) and still qualify.
• Families of four can have a monthly income of up to $6,680 (that’s over $80k a year).

If you’re a renter and heat is included in your lease, you also still be eligible too for a smaller “Renters’ Benefit” check sent directly to you.

How to apply in 5 minutes

You don’t need to trek to a government office in a blizzard, you can do it all online and it’s actually super easy.

1. Head to ACCESS HRA: NYC residents can apply entirely online or via the mobile app.
2. Upload the Essentials: You’ll need a photo ID, proof of income (pay stubs), and your most recent Con Ed bill.
3. The “Emergency” Shortcut: If you’ve already received a shut-off notice, don’t wait for the regular application. Call the HEAP hotline at 718-557-1399 to trigger an Emergency HEAP grant, which opened earlier this January.

Keep this in mind for spring, you can also get free air conditioners

Believe it or not the frigid temperatures will be gone soon, and spring is around the corner.

That means the city’s Cooling Assistance program returns, which is basically the spring/summer version of the same program.

Set to open on April 15, 2026, those who qualify for HEAP now, are likely eligible for a free air conditioner and installation once the humidity hits.