Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in New York

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built for speed and clarity. Every section starts with the first action you should take. Links take you straight to official applications, phone numbers, and help lines.

(ny.gov)

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call the state regulator right now if shutoff is within 72 hours: the Department of Public Service (DPS) Emergency Hotline at 1-800-342-3355. Ask for a “medical hold” review and a payment agreement. Use the online complaint form only if you do not have a 72‑hour notice. See the hotline and complaint options at DPS File a Complaint and DPS Contact. (dps.ny.gov)
• Apply for the Emergency benefit under the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) if your heat or heat‑related electric is off or scheduled for shutoff. NYC residents can call 1-718-557-1399; outside NYC, contact your HEAP district via OTDA HEAP and Apply for HEAP. Ask for “Emergency HEAP.” (otda.ny.gov)
• Call your utility and request a Deferred Payment Agreement and any medical-emergency/life-support protections. Examples: Con Edison Bill Help, National Grid Special Protections, and DPS HEFPA Rights explain timelines and protections. (coned.com)

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Quick help box — keep these five handy

• DPS Helpline (complaints and help negotiating with utilities): 1-800-342-3377; Emergency Hotline: 1-800-342-3355. See DPS Contact and File a Complaint. TTY via 711 statewide. (dps.ny.gov)
• NYC HEAP line (HRA): 1-718-557-1399; document return fax 1-917-639-2900. See HRA HEAP FAQ and ACCESS NYC HEAP. (home.nyc.gov)
• NYS HEAP info: Apply for HEAP and OTDA How to Apply. General OTDA hotline: 1-800-342-3009. (ny.gov)
• Dial 211 for local help 24/7: see 211 NY contact map and 211NYS. Long Island 211: 1-888-774-7633. (211nys.org)
• Language access (free interpreters at state agencies): NY State Language Access, DPS Language Access, and request interpreters when you call agencies. (ny.gov)

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How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in New York Today

Start here even if you feel overwhelmed. These calls can place holds on shutoffs and open doors to grants.

• Call your utility’s credit department first and say: “I want a Deferred Payment Agreement under HEFPA, and I’m applying for HEAP. Please note my file.” Use the direct help pages at Con Edison Bill Help, National Grid Special Protections, and NYSEG Help With Your Bill for phone numbers and forms. Ask about medical protections if you or your child has a condition worsened by loss of service. (coned.com)
• If shutoff is within 72 hours, call the DPS Emergency Hotline at 1-800-342-3355. Tell them you requested a payment plan and applied for HEAP. Then file a written complaint via DPS File a Complaint so DPS can monitor your case. (dps.ny.gov)
• Apply for Emergency HEAP the same day. NYC: 1-718-557-1399 or use ACCESS NYC (HEAP); outside NYC use myBenefits HEAP and your Local District Contacts. Emergency HEAP can restore heat or stop a disconnection when electricity powers your heat. Expect decisions within 48 hours for crisis cases. (access.nyc.gov)

Reality check: Utilities can disconnect Monday–Thursday 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. after proper notice. You usually get a Final Termination Notice at least 15 days before shutoff and it can be sent 20 days after the bill due date. If your case doesn’t follow these rules, tell DPS. See your legal rights under DPS HEFPA Rights. (dps.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the nonprofit Public Utility Law Project (PULP) at 1‑877‑669‑2572 for free help negotiating with utilities and preparing complaints, and call DPS Helpline again to update your case. If you’re in NYC, also contact the NYC Utility Consumer Advocate for city‑level help. (211wny.org)

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Know Your Rights Under New York’s HEFPA (Home Energy Fair Practices Act)

• You have shutoff protections. A utility must send a Final Termination Notice and allow time to cure; it cannot shut off on holidays, the day before holidays, during the two‑week winter holiday period, or outside business hours. Read the official rules at DPS HEFPA Rights. (dps.ny.gov)
• Medical emergency holds are real. A doctor or Board of Health can certify a medical emergency; the utility must continue service for 30 days and can extend with proof of need and inability to pay. For chronic conditions, longer protection is possible. See DPS HEFPA Rights and request your utility’s medical form (examples under National Grid Special Protections). (dps.ny.gov)
• If your landlord pays the bill and stops: utilities must notify you and offer a way to keep service. Call DPS Helpline if you get a “landlord non‑payment” notice. Learn more via DPS HEFPA Rights and DPS Contact. (dps.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask DPS for a supervisor review and request a “no‑shutoff pending dispute.” Keep your confirmation number from DPS File a Complaint, and contact PULP to escalate. (dps.ny.gov)

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Programs That Most Single Moms Use First

HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) — energy bill help

Start with HEAP every season; it unlocks other discounts automatically at your utility.

• Eligibility and what it pays: HEAP helps with regular heating bills, emergency heat or shutoff, furnace repair/replacement, clean‑and‑tune, and seasonal cooling. 2024‑2025 components closed on April–June dates; the 2025‑2026 season typically opens in November. Check current status at Apply for HEAP and OTDA How to Apply. NYC details and application support are at ACCESS NYC HEAP. (ny.gov)
• Emergency HEAP: If heat is off, fuel is below one‑quarter tank, or electric service that runs your heat is off or set for shutoff, apply for Emergency HEAP. Use OTDA How to Apply for district contacts or call NYC at 1‑718‑557‑1399. Decisions are typically made within 48 hours; have your shutoff notice or fuel level proof ready. (otda.ny.gov)
• Documents you’ll need: Proof of address (lease, utility bill), ID for all household members, and income proof (pay stubs). New York lists the set you need at Apply for HEAP. For NYC mailing/fax options, use HRA HEAP FAQ. (ny.gov)
• Income limits: 2024‑2025 monthly limits were $3,322for1personand$6,390 for 4; updated limits post each fall. Check the current table on Apply for HEAP. When in doubt, apply. (ny.gov)

Typical timeline: Regular HEAP decisions within 30 business days; Emergency HEAP within 48 hours after you complete the interview. Call your district if nothing moves by those timelines. Use OTDA How to Apply. (otda.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a supervisor at your HEAP office, then contact DPS Helpline if a pending emergency is not being handled fast enough. NYC residents can also call 311 (ACCESS NYC) to log help tickets. (dps.ny.gov)

Quick HEAP Table — Components and Where to Apply

(ny.gov)

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Monthly Utility Bill Discounts — Energy Affordability Programs (EAP)

If you get HEAP, your electric/gas utility should auto‑enroll you in a monthly discount. If not, send proof and ask to be added.

• State policy and your rights: New York’s EAP aims to hold energy burden to 6% of income and has been expanded in 2025 to cover more low‑to‑moderate income customers. Learn the policy and who qualifies at DPS Energy Affordability Program and the July 2025 update. (dps.ny.gov)
• Con Edison (NYC/Westchester): Discounts are tiered by your HEAP award; savings can be up to about $173/month for qualifying tiers. See discount tables and how to submit documents at Con Edison Bill Help and the EAP news release. Fax: 1‑212‑844‑0110. (coned.com)
• Orange & Rockland (Rockland/Orange): 2025 tiers show typical electric/gas discounts from about $52to$95 (electric) and $2to$64 (gas) by HEAP level. Apply via O&R Energy Affordability. (oru.com)
• PSEG Long Island (Nassau/Suffolk/Rockaways): The Household Assistance Program gives a $45 monthly credit if you receive certain benefits; call the Advocacy Hotline 1‑631‑755‑3407 or use PSEG LI Household Assistance. (psegliny.com)
• NYSEG / RG&E (Upstate): The EAP Monthly Bill Credit is automatic when a HEAP grant hits your account (or you submit other qualifying proof). See NYSEG HEAP & EAP and RG&E EAP for submission emails/fax numbers. Amounts vary with delivery rates and benefit class. (nyseg.com)
• National Grid (Downstate/Upstate gas/electric): Enroll or recertify via National Grid Bill Help and use Special Protections for elderly/medical cases. Discounts coordinate with HEAP and budget billing. (nationalgridus.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Email or fax proof of your HEAP or benefit letter directly to your utility’s EAP team (see your utility page above), then call DPS Helpline if enrollment stalls past two billing cycles. (dps.ny.gov)

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Charitable and Community “Last‑Resort” Grants

If you’ve used HEAP and still face a shutoff, these funds can sometimes fill the gap. Funding opens and closes without much notice. Always call to confirm current availability.

• Con Edison EnergyShare (administered by HeartShare): Grants often up to $200–$300 per year depending on funds. Call 1‑877‑480‑7427 and see Con Edison EnergyShare (HeartShare) and Con Edison EnergyShare info. (heartshare.org)
• National Grid emergency funds: In February 2025, National Grid and its foundation boosted one‑time grants to 500 for Care & Share (upstate) and Neighborhood Heating Fund (NYC) for customers who exhausted HEAP; amounts may revert when funds run out. See *National Grid 1.4M Heating Funds* and call 1‑866‑305‑1915 (affordability line) or HeartShare 1‑855‑852‑2736. (nationalgridus.com)
• PSEG Long Island Project Warmth (United Way): One‑time emergency heat grant for Nassau/Suffolk/Rockaways; apply through Project Warmth or dial 211 Long Island (1‑888‑774‑7633). (psegliny.com)
• NYSEG/RG&E Project SHARE (HeartShare): Seasonal emergency heating grants; watch for reopen dates and call 1‑800‑599‑4327; see NYSEG Project SHARE. (nyseg.com)
• National Fuel Gas (Western NY) Neighbor for Neighbor: One‑time grant up to $300; call Salvation Army 716‑888‑6230; see Neighbor for Neighbor. (nationalfuel.com)
• Central Hudson Good Neighbor Fund: “Last resort” grants up to $325;special$200 Veteran grant; call 1‑845‑452‑2700; see Central Hudson Good Neighbor. (cenhud.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local 211 for churches and community action agencies handling intake this week. If your utility is O&R, call the Salvation Army numbers listed on O&R Neighbor Fund. For tough cases, ask PULP to coach you on presenting your budget to agencies. (oru.com)

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Water and Sewer Bill Help

• New York City: If you received a HEAP regular heating benefit or certain property tax exemptions, NYC DEP gives an automatic $145“HomeWaterAssistanceProgram”credit;multifamilyaffordablebuildingsmayqualifyfora$250/unit credit. See DEP Home Water Assistance and DEP Multifamily Water Assistance. (nyc.gov)
• Outside NYC: Ask your city/town water department about local hardship programs and shutoff protections. DPS can help mediate complaints for some regulated water companies; start with DPS Helpline and your local 211 for charity funds. (dps.ny.gov)
• If water is used to heat (e.g., steam or heat‑related electric): Document this for Emergency HEAP to stop a shutoff. Use Apply for HEAP and tell your district it is a heat‑related emergency. (ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: For NYC billing disputes, call DEP Customer Service at 1‑718‑595‑7000 (see DEP Home Water Assistance for contacts). Also call your Council Member’s office and 311 to request a DEP review. (nyc.gov)

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Weatherization and Energy Efficiency — lower bills for good

• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free insulation, air sealing, heating system repairs. Income limit is generally at or below 60% of State Median Income; HEAP participation confers automatic eligibility. Apply through your local provider via HCR Weatherization Applicants. (hcr.ny.gov)
• NYSERDA EmPower+: No‑cost assessments and upgrades; help with heat pumps, electrical upgrades, and direct install measures for income‑eligible 1–4 family homes. Check eligibility by county and household size at NYSERDA EmPower+ and EmPower+ Eligibility. Connect through Clean Energy Hubs. (nyserda.ny.gov)
• HEAP Clean and Tune / HERR: Ask your HEAP worker for Clean & Tune and Heating Equipment Repair/Replacement when open. See Apply for HEAP and OTDA How to Apply for how to request these components. (ny.gov)

Reality check: EmPower+ budgets are tightening over the next few years; funding cycles change. Call your Clean Energy Hub to confirm availability before scheduling work. (timesunion.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility for free energy‑saving kits and low‑income device rebates. Con Edison and the Joint Utilities also run efficiency incentives; see Con Edison incentives and NYS Clean Heat. (coned.com)

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Affordable Internet/Phone — keep school and work connected

• Lifeline: A federal $9.25/month discount on mobile or home internet/phone (more on Tribal lands). Check eligibility and apply through USAC Lifeline or read FCC Lifeline. Pair Lifeline with a low‑cost plan to cut bills. (usac.org)
• New York Affordable Broadband Act (ABA): Providers must offer qualifying low‑income households service at $15/monthfor25Mbpsor$20/month for 200 Mbps. Learn more through the Governor’s ConnectALL ABA announcement and press coverage. If your ISP won’t offer it, complain to DPS and ask to be connected to an ABA plan. (governor.ny.gov)
• Find help signing up: Contact the ConnectALL Office for housing connectivity projects and ask your Clean Energy Hub or 211 to locate low‑cost offers in your area. (broadband.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Some providers paused or changed offerings in 2025. If you’re denied an ABA low‑income plan, document it and file a DPS complaint. Ask libraries and schools about device hotspots while you sort out service. (dps.ny.gov)

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Timelines You Can Expect

• HEAP (regular): Decision within 30 business days after your district gets your completed application; funds open seasonally (usually November). See OTDA How to Apply. (otda.ny.gov)
• HEAP (emergency): Crisis decisions typically within 48 hours after interview. See OTDA How to Apply. (otda.ny.gov)
• DPS complaint: Staff will contact the utility and you; holds are common during disputes. Log the complaint via File a Complaint and keep your case number. (dps.ny.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

(dps.ny.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying only for regular HEAP and skipping Emergency HEAP when you have a shutoff notice. Use the emergency track via your HEAP district and tell your utility you applied. (otda.ny.gov)
• Not calling DPS when the shutoff is inside 72 hours. Phone calls trigger faster action than an online form in crisis. Use DPS Emergency Hotline and then File a Complaint. (dps.ny.gov)
• Forgetting that HEAP unlocks the monthly discount. If your discount doesn’t show two bills after HEAP posts, send proof to your utility’s EAP team or follow steps on Con Edison Bill Help and O&R EAP. (coned.com)
• Missing medical protections. Ask your doctor to fax the medical certificate; look up rules under DPS HEFPA Rights and National Grid Special Protections. (dps.ny.gov)

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Reality Check — Delays, Denials, and Rate Increases

Funding opens and closes. Regular HEAP briefly ran out of federal funds in January 2025 until New York added $35 million to reopen it. Utilities have proposed multi‑year rate increases, and disconnections increased in 2025 in some territories. Always call to confirm current availability, and apply the day programs open. See Times Union on HEAP funding, Reuters on National Grid rates, and related coverage. (timesunion.com)

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Application Checklist (print/screenshot)

• Photo ID and SSN (or other ID) for each household member — see Apply for HEAP for accepted documents.
• Proof of address (lease, utility bill, mortgage, or landlord statement) — list on Apply for HEAP.
• Income proof (pay stubs, benefits letters, child support, self‑employment) — see HRA HEAP FAQ notes.
• Shutoff notice/fuel level (if emergency) — match criteria on OTDA How to Apply.
• Doctor letter if requesting medical protection — use your utility’s Special Protections form.

(ny.gov)

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Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support

• HeartShare Human Services processes utility relief funds for several utilities (EnergyShare, Care & Share). Call 1‑855‑852‑2736 for National Grid grants and 1‑877‑480‑7427 for Con Edison EnergyShare; see HeartShare Energy Assistance. (heartshare.org)
• United Way / 211 helps you find local intake sites, church funds, and Project Warmth. Start with 211 NY contact map or 211 Long Island. (211nys.org)
• Catholic Charities chapters across NY provide emergency utility help when funds are available (Albany Diocese example). Ask your county office; see Catholic Charities Albany and Catholic Charities BQ news. (ccrcda.org)
• Salvation Army administers the Neighbor for Neighbor fund in Western NY and handles O&R’s Neighbor Fund intake; contact your local corps via Neighbor for Neighbor (SA) or the O&R Neighbor Fund. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 which agencies are still issuing grants this week and whether any “hardship letters” from your pediatrician help place you on priority lists. Then request a DPS consumer services conference call with your utility. Use DPS Contact. (dps.ny.gov)

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Resources by Region (who to call and what to ask)

• New York City: Utilities include Con Edison Bill Help (electric/gas/steam in parts), National Grid (NYC gas), and DEP’s Home Water Assistance. For HEAP, use ACCESS NYC HEAP and 1‑718‑557‑1399. For immigrant support, call MOIA/ActionNYC. (coned.com)
• Long Island / Rockaways: Electric is PSEG LI Household Assistance ($45/month); gas is National Grid. For heat emergencies, Project Warmth via 211 Long Island (1‑888‑774‑7633). (psegliny.com)
• Hudson Valley: Central Hudson Good Neighbor for grants; O&R Energy Affordability for discounts. For extra help, call your county DSS and PULP. (cenhud.com)
• Western NY: Gas is often National Fuel — try Neighbor for Neighbor grants. Check WAP (HCR) providers and EmPower+. (nationalfuel.com)
• Central NY, Finger Lakes, Southern Tier, Capital Region, North Country: Utilities include NYSEG HEAP & EAP / RG&E EAP. For efficiency support, use Clean Energy Hubs and EmPower+. (nyseg.com)

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County‑Specific Variations You Should Know

• O&R Neighbor Fund (Rockland/Orange) uses Salvation Army intake and is independent of income guidelines; see the phone list on O&R Neighbor Fund. (oru.com)
• PSEG Long Island is not regulated by the PSC in the same way as investor‑owned utilities; it still honors shutoff rules and offers the $45 HAP credit. Use PSEG LI Household Assistance and call their Advocacy Hotline (1‑631‑755‑3407). (psegliny.com)
• National Fuel Gas service area has the Neighbor for Neighbor Heat Fund (Western NY) handled by Salvation Army/Catholic Charities; see Neighbor for Neighbor. (nationalfuel.com)

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Scan‑Friendly Tables

Table — Monthly Discount Programs (selected utilities)

(coned.com)

Table — Charitable “Last‑Resort” Funds

(heartshare.org)

Table — Water Help (NYC)

(nyc.gov)

Table — Shutoff Protections You Can Trigger

(dps.ny.gov)

Table — Efficiency & Upgrades

(hcr.ny.gov)

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Diverse Communities — Tailored Notes and Resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for your name/pronouns to be used in notes during utility calls and at HEAP interviews; you have the same rights to EAP discounts and medical protections. For legal advocacy or if you face discrimination, contact DPS Helpline and local legal aid via PULP. NYC‑based support can also point you to benefits navigation; start with ActionNYC. Use language access if needed via NY State Language Access. (dps.ny.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Mark your account for EBD protections and ask your child’s doctor to fax a medical‑emergency letter. Utilities must honor medical holds under HEFPA. For state disability services and accessibility help, contact OPWDD (TTY via 711), and remind every agency you call that you need accommodations. Review shutoff rules at DPS HEFPA Rights and protections under National Grid Special Protections. (opwdd.ny.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: You may qualify for extra utility grants (e.g., Central Hudson’s $200 Veterans grant) and priority help lines. Reach the NYS Department of Veterans’ Services at 1‑888‑838‑7697 and ask about SSVF programs that can pay arrears tied to housing. Check local utility pages like Central Hudson Good Neighbor. (veterans.ny.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Your immigration status does not bar you from HEAP or EAP if you meet the program rules. If you need safe legal help or translators, call ONA’s New Americans Hotline (1‑800‑566‑7636) and MOIA/ActionNYC. Use NY State Language Access if any agency refuses an interpreter. (dos.ny.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Some Tribal governments administer LIHEAP directly (e.g., Seneca Nation). Ask your Tribal social services about winter crisis rules and fuel help, and pair with state HEAP if allowed. Use LIHEAP Tribal Clearinghouse for program contacts; if you live off‑territory, apply through your county. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Request phone interviews for HEAP if travel is hard. Ask your utility for “medical letter by fax” options and mail‑in forms. For broadband, ask about an ABA $15 plan via ConnectALL ABA, and use USAC Lifeline where cell coverage is better than cable. (governor.ny.gov)
• Single fathers: These benefits are based on household need, not gender. Use the same steps here; start with Apply for HEAP and DPS Helpline. (ny.gov)
• Language access and TTY: Every Executive agency must provide free interpreters; DPS provides language assistance and accepts Relay 711. Bookmark DPS Language Access and NY State Language Access. (dps.ny.gov)

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How to Apply — Step‑by‑Step (and Plan B)

1. Gather documents: ID for all household members, address proof, income proof, and any shutoff/fuel notices. Use Apply for HEAP for the list. If requesting a medical hold, get a doctor letter; see National Grid Special Protections for what the letter must say. (ny.gov)
2. Submit HEAP: NYC uses ACCESS NYC HEAP; outside NYC use myBenefits HEAP. If you can’t upload, mail/fax using addresses on HRA HEAP FAQ or your district page. (access.nyc.gov)
3. Call your utility’s EAP team: After you file HEAP, email/fax your approval to get the monthly discount faster. See Con Edison Bill Help, O&R EAP, NYSEG EAP, PSEG LI Household Assistance. (coned.com)
4. Ask for a payment plan: Request a Deferred Payment Agreement that matches your budget. If the plan is unaffordable or refused, call DPS Helpline and ask DPS to join a 3‑way call with the utility. (dps.ny.gov)

Plan B: If denied or delayed, file a DPS complaint with documents attached, call PULP for free advice, and apply to a charitable fund from the table above while DPS reviews your case. (dps.ny.gov)

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Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied

• HEAP denial: Appeal quickly and submit missing documents. Ask for a supervisor review at your district. NYC: call 1‑718‑557‑1399. If the emergency is urgent, re‑apply under Emergency HEAP. Use OTDA How to Apply. (otda.ny.gov)
• Utility discount not posting: Email or fax EAP documents again; include your HEAP letter and account number. If still missing after two bills, file with DPS File a Complaint. (dps.ny.gov)
• Payment plan too high: Under HEFPA, plans should reflect ability to pay. Ask DPS to mediate a lower down payment or longer term. See DPS HEFPA Rights. (dps.ny.gov)

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FAQs — New York Utility Help (2025)

1. How fast can Emergency HEAP stop a shutoff?
   Most districts decide within about 48 hours after your interview if it’s a true heat or heat‑related electric emergency. Call the district daily until approved. See OTDA How to Apply. (otda.ny.gov)
2. My child uses powered medical equipment. What should I do?
   Ask your doctor to fax the utility’s medical certificate; request life‑support or medical‑emergency status. Utilities must continue service for set periods and extend with proof of need. See DPS HEFPA Rights and National Grid Special Protections. (dps.ny.gov)
3. I received a 72‑hour notice. Is it too late?
   No. Call the DPS Emergency Hotline immediately; ask DPS to place a hold while you set up a payment plan and apply for Emergency HEAP. Then file a written complaint. (dps.ny.gov)
4. Do I qualify for a monthly discount if I rent with heat included?
   Yes, if you get HEAP or other qualifying benefits, your electric/gas account can still get EAP discounts even if heat is included in rent. Check your utility’s EAP page: Con Edison, O&R, NYSEG/RG&E. (coned.com)
5. Can I get help fixing a broken boiler?
   Yes. Ask for HEAP HERR (Heating Equipment Repair/Replacement). Limits vary; homeowners only. Start with OTDA How to Apply. (otda.ny.gov)
6. What if HEAP closes mid‑winter?
   Funding can run out early. In January 2025, NY reopened HEAP with $35 million in state funds after a short closure. Keep checking Apply for HEAP and ask your district to call you when it reopens. (timesunion.com)
7. Is there help for water bills?
   NYC has an automatic $145 credit for many low‑income homeowners; multifamily credits exist for affordable housing projects. See DEP Home Water Assistance and DEP Multifamily Water Assistance. Outside NYC, ask your water utility and 211. (nyc.gov)
8. Can I get my home insulated for free?
   Likely yes via Weatherization (HCR), EmPower+, or your utility’s programs. Call your Clean Energy Hub to screen you and schedule an assessment. (hcr.ny.gov)
9. What low‑cost internet can I get now that ACP ended?
   Apply for Lifeline and ask providers about New York’s Affordable Broadband Act $15/$20 plans. If you’re refused, complain to DPS and ask to be connected to an ABA‑compliant plan. (usac.org)
10. Who can negotiate for me if I’m overwhelmed?
    Call PULP for free consumer utility help, contact DPS Helpline to mediate, and use 211 to find a nearby case manager. (211wny.org)

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Real‑World Examples (what actually happens)

• A Bronx mom on oxygen faces a Con Edison shutoff. Her clinic faxes the utility a medical certificate, DPS places a dispute hold, she applies for Emergency HEAP the same day, and HeartShare approves a small EnergyShare grant to close the gap. Use DPS HEFPA Rights, ACCESS NYC HEAP, and EnergyShare. (dps.ny.gov)
• A Suffolk County mom with two kids has oil heat and no fuel. 211 routes her to Project Warmth for a one‑time delivery, she files Emergency HEAP with her county DSS, and PSEG LI adds the $45 Household Assistance credit. (psegliny.com)
• A Rochester renter on RG&E gets a final notice. She applies for HEAP via myBenefits, RG&E auto‑enrolls her for the EAP credit, and she sets a $0 down payment plan after DPS mediation. See NYSEG/RG&E EAP and DPS Helpline. (rge.com)

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Spanish summary — Resumen en español (traducción con herramientas de IA)

• Para emergencias de corte en 72 horas, llame al DPS: 1‑800‑342‑3355. Use DPS — presentar queja. Para ayuda regular, llame al 1‑800‑342‑3377. (dps.ny.gov)
• Solicite HEAP (ayuda de energía): en NYC use ACCESS NYC HEAP (tel. 1‑718‑557‑1399) y fuera de NYC use Aplicar para HEAP. Lleve identificación, prueba de domicilio e ingresos. (access.nyc.gov)
• Pida descuentos mensuales (EAP) a su compañía de luz/gas: Con Edison, O&R, NYSEG/RG&E, PSEG Long Island. Estos descuentos se activan con HEAP. (coned.com)
• Para agua en NYC: crédito automático de $145 si califica. Vea DEP Home Water Assistance. (nyc.gov)
• Si necesita intérprete, el estado ofrece acceso lingüístico gratis. Vea NY State Language Access y DPS Language Access. (ny.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• New York State OTDA — HEAP (applications, deadlines, and components)
• NYC HRA — HEAP FAQ / ACCESS NYC HEAP (NYC processes and contacts)
• New York State DPS — Helpline, Emergency Hotline, HEFPA rights, EAP policy
• NYC DEP — Home Water Assistance and Multifamily Water Assistance
• NYSERDA EmPower+ and Clean Energy Hubs (efficiency upgrades)
• Utility programs — Con Edison Bill Help, O&R EAP, PSEG LI Household Assistance, NYSEG/RG&E EAP, National Grid Special Protections
• United Way/211 New York (regional contacts)
• Public Utility Law Project (PULP) (consumer advocacy)

(ny.gov)

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Program rules and funding change quickly. Always confirm current eligibility, amounts, and timelines with the official agency or your utility before you apply. When money is on the line or a shutoff is near, call the numbers in the Quick help box and document every call with dates, names, and confirmation numbers.

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• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery