- Program Launch: The 2026 Cooling Assistance component officially opened on April 15, 2026, and will remain open until August 31, 2026, or until funds are exhausted.
- First-Come, First-Served: Benefits are distributed based on the order applications are received; it is recommended to apply as early as possible before the seasonal funding cap is reached.
- Benefit Amounts: Eligible households can receive up to $800 for a window or portable air conditioner (including installation) or up to $1,000 for an existing wall sleeve unit.
- Automatic Eligibility: Households currently receiving SNAP, Temporary Assistance, or Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are automatically income-eligible.
- Vulnerability Requirements: Households must include at least one individual who is 60 years or older, under age 6, or has a documented medical condition worsened by heat.
- Equipment Limitations: You are only eligible if you do not currently have a working air conditioner or if your existing unit is at least five years old.
- Five-Year Rule: You cannot receive a cooling benefit if you have already received a HEAP-funded air conditioner within the past five years.
- Operational Costs: The benefit covers only the purchase and installation of the unit; it does not provide additional funds to cover the monthly electricity costs of running it.
New York’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) officially opened its Cooling Assistance component for the summer season on April 15, 2026. This state-administered program helps income-eligible households safely cool their homes by covering the cost of new cooling equipment.
Because these funds are limited, benefits are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Here is a straightforward breakdown of what the program covers, who is eligible, and how to apply.
What Does the Cooling Assistance Benefit Cover?
The program covers the cost of purchasing and installing an air conditioner or a fan, as well as the removal of an old unit.
- Up to $800 for a window air conditioner, portable air conditioner, or fan (including installation).
- Up to $1,000 for an existing wall sleeve unit.
Note: If your residence cannot safely accommodate an air conditioner, a fan will be provided instead. The HEAP Cooling Assistance program does not provide additional cash benefits to cover the electricity costs of running the unit.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2026 Cooling Assistance component, applicants must meet specific demographic, equipment, and financial criteria, and a member of the household must be a U.S. Citizen or a Qualified Non-Citizen.
1. Household Criteria
Your household must include at least one individual who meets one of the following conditions:
- Has a documented medical condition that is exacerbated by extreme heat (requires a note from a medical provider).
- Is 60 years of age or older.
- Is under age 6.
2. Equipment Criteria
- You currently do not have a working air conditioner, OR the air conditioner you have is at least five years old.
- You have not received a HEAP-funded air conditioner within the past five years.
3. Financial Criteria
You are automatically income-eligible if you currently receive SNAP (Food Stamps), Temporary Assistance, or Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI Living Alone).
If you do not receive those benefits, your household’s gross monthly income must be at or below the 2025–2026 limits:
| Household Size | Maximum Gross Monthly Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $3,473 |
| 2 | $4,542 |
| 3 | $5,611 |
| 4 | $6,680 |
| 5 | $7,749 |
| 6 | $8,818 |
| 7 | $9,018 |
| For each additional person | Add $687 |
How to Apply
Since funding runs out quickly, it is highly recommended to submit your application as early as possible.
- New York City Residents: You can apply online via ACCESS HRA or by using the ACCESS HRA mobile app. You can also apply by phone at (718) 557-1399 or in person at a local HRA Benefits Access Center.
- Outside NYC (New York State Residents): You can apply online through myBenefits.ny.gov, or contact your local county Department of Social Services (DSS) or the Office for the Aging.
- Required Documents: When applying, be prepared to provide proof of identity for all household members, proof of residency (like a lease, rent receipt, or utility bill), recent pay stubs for all household members, and paperwork documenting a medical condition if applicable.