A new round of pandemic relief from the American Rescue Plan Act will help New Yorkers pay high utility bills during the winter, Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney announced Tuesday.
The Democrat noted that $ 340,283,934 will be distributed to more than 5 million households through the Department of Health and Human Services’ Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Those who already receive SNAP, SSI, TANF benefits may qualify, as well as individuals who meet annual household income limits.
New Yorkers are still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. This investment will help families pay for energy costs and stay warm, safe and healthy this winter, ”said Representative Maloney.
The funding comes as Con Edison, one of the nation’s largest energy companies, said the average gas heating bill this season could be 24% higher than last year’s average. If last year’s monthly bill cost $ 275, you could be paying $ 341 a month this winter, the company said last week.
The higher utility bills are primarily due to the cost of natural gas, as well as increases in delivery charges, Con Edison said, explaining that it does not set the cost of supply.
To apply for LIHEAP benefits people can contact their state LIHEAP office here or city here. You can also call 1-866-674-6327.
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