Help with home heating, cooling, and emergency energy needs.
Program Overview
HEAP provides energy assistance to low‑income households through payments to fuel and/or utility suppliers. The program also offers emergency assistance for repair or replacement of applicant‑owned essential heating equipment and in fuel emergency situations.
A 24‑hour hotline operates during the cold winter months to ensure county residents have recourse in the event of an emergency when DSS is closed.
Availability Update
The opening date for the 2026-2027 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Heating Equipment Repair & Replacement (HERR) and Heating Equipment Clean & Tune (C&T) benefits is Thursday, October 1, 2026.
In the 2025-2026 program year, HERR was limited to homeowners aged 60 or older at the time of application, and the C&T benefit was not available.
For the 2026-2027 program year, both benefits will be available to eligible homeowners of any age.
How to Apply
HEAP Program – NYS OTDA
How to Apply for HEAP
If you are over 60 years of age, you may apply for HEAP at the Broome County Office for Aging.
Cooling Assistance Component (CAC)
The 2025–2026 HEAP CAC will operate through close of business June 5, 2026.
Vendors must submit final bills to social services districts within 30 business days of services rendered, but no later than September 30, 2026.
Emergency Assistance
For after‑hours heating emergencies, please call 607-778-3885.
During business hours, call the HEAP unit via the DSS Contact Center at 607‑778‑1100. Staff are available Monday–Friday, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
Helpful Resources
- Extreme Heat Advice – NYS Department of Health
- About Heat and Your Health – CDC
- Refer to 26DC025 regarding the NYS Department of Health Essential Plan Cooling Program, which may also assist households.
Contact Information
Broome County DSS – HEAP Unit
Phone: 607‑778‑1100 (M–F 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM)
Fax: 607‑778‑8916
