Introduction to the Cooling Assistance Benefit
Summer months are just around the corner and having an air conditioner is essential to cool off on the hottest days. For that reason, New York State opened applications for the Cooling Assistance Benefit, which gives free air conditioning and installation to eligible New Yorkers in need.
What to Know
- New York State opened applications for free air conditioning on April 15.
- This resource benefits low-income families without air conditioning to help them stay cool during the summer heat.
- Cooling Assistance benefits are provided on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible applicants.
What is the Cooling Assistance Benefit?
If you are eligible, you may receive one Cooling Assistance benefit per applicant household for the purchase and installation of an air conditioner or a fan to help your home stay cool. In circumstances where an air conditioner cannot be safely installed, a fan will be provided. Only one air conditioner or fan, not to exceed $800 with installation for a window, portable air conditioner, or fan and not to exceed $1,000 for an existing wall sleeve unit, will be provided per applicant household.
What does it cover?
- Cost of the air conditioner or fan
- Administrative costs
- Labor
- Program support
- Materials
- Removal of your old unit
- Minor repairs that are needed to safely install the new unit
Who is Eligible?
Your household must meet specific criteria, including:
- Your household’s gross monthly income is at or below the current income guidelines for your household size.
- You receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, or Temporary Assistance (TA), or Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI Living Alone).
- Your household contains at least one person with a documented medical condition that is exacerbated by extreme heat, verified in writing by a physician, or someone age 60 or older, or a child under age 6.
- A member of your household is a U.S. Citizen or Qualified Non-Citizen.
- You currently do not have a working air conditioner or the one you have is at least five years old, and you did not receive a HEAP-funded air conditioner in the last five years.
Required Documents
To apply, you will need:
- Proof of residence
- Proof of your income
- Proof of identity
- Proof of social security
- Proof of medical condition, if applicable
Application Process
You can apply:
- By Phone: Call your HEAP Local District Contact for more information on eligibility, the application process, and required documentation.
- In person: Apply at your HEAP Local District Contact.
- Online: New York City Residents may apply for the HEAP Cooling Assistance benefit online by visiting access.nyc.gov.
Additional Information
For more details and to find the monthly gross income requirements for 2024-2025, you can visit the provided links. Additional information for NYC residents is also available.
Conclusion
The Cooling Assistance Benefit is a valuable resource for low-income families and individuals in New York who cannot afford air conditioning. By providing free air conditioners and installation, this program helps ensure that everyone can stay cool and safe during the hot summer months. It is essential to review the eligibility criteria and required documents carefully to ensure a smooth application process.
FAQs
- Q: When did New York State open applications for the Cooling Assistance Benefit?
- A: Applications opened on April 15.
- Q: What is the maximum amount that can be provided for a window air conditioner or fan?
- A: Not to exceed $800 with installation.
- Q: Can I apply online if I am not a New York City resident?
- A: Currently, online applications are available for New York City residents through access.nyc.gov. Other residents should contact their HEAP Local District Contact for application information.
- Q: Do I need to provide proof of a medical condition?
- A: Only if you are applying based on having a household member with a documented medical condition exacerbated by extreme heat.
