Central New York winters can be harsh, which mean utility bills can skyrocket. Fortunately, there's a program that can help with heating costs.

Governor Cuomo announced that $327 million is available for New Yorkers who qualify for heating assistance. In order to qualify, for example, a family of 4 must earn less than $53,482 a year. Last year, more than 60,000 CNY homes qualified for help with their heating bills.

Applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) will be accepted starting Monday, November 13 at myBenefits.ny.gov

There is also a program to help people who are at risk of getting their heat shut off at their house or running out of fuel. Applications for those emergency benefits will be accepted beginning Tuesday, January 2, 2018.

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