NYS – Households Eligible for Discount On Utility Bill

As many as 2.5 million additional New York households are now eligible for monthly discounts on their electricity and natural gas bills under an expanded state program, potentially bringing the number of households eligible for assistance to about half of those statewide.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the expanded eligibility for the state’s Energy Affordability Program (EAP) as part of a new statewide enrollment campaign. About 1 million households are already enrolled, but state officials estimate another 2.5 million eligible households have not yet signed up.

The program provides monthly bill discounts based on household income and other eligibility requirements. Some participating households could save up to $500 a year, depending on their circumstances and utility service. The expansion is intended to reach more moderate-income households that previously did not qualify.

Eligibility was broadened in January to include households with incomes below the applicable state or area median income. In New York City, for example, a single-person household can qualify with annual income of up to about $113,000, while a four-person household can qualify with income of up to approximately $162,000.

Some households are automatically enrolled because they participate in qualifying public assistance programs, including HEAP, SNAP, Medicaid, and Temporary Assistance. Others must apply or enroll through their utility provider.

The state is directing the Department of Public Service to conduct a broad outreach campaign using digital advertising, direct mail, text messages and partnerships with utilities, community organisations and social-service agencies to identify and enroll eligible households.

The EAP discounts are separate from New York’s recently announced energy rebate checks of up to $200, which are being distributed to millions of households under a different state initiative.

With utility costs remaining a significant concern for New York households, state officials are urging residents who meet the expanded income requirements to check their eligibility and enroll in the Energy Affordability Program through their utility provider or the state’s benefits portal.