web
You’re offline. This is a read only version of the page.
close

HEAP Cooling Assistance

  Related links
NYC311 Home Report Problems Look Up Service Requests Browse Topics

Need something else?

  • Cooling Centers to find an air-conditioned place when the heat index is expected to be dangerously high
  • Cool It! NYC to find outdoor areas near you to hydrate and stay in the shade
  • Essential Plan Cooling Program for people enrolled in the NY State of Health’s Essential Plan to receive a free air conditioner

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps eligible New Yorkers afford an air conditioner or fan to stay cool during the summer months.

The application period for the 2025-2026 Cooling Assistance Component benefit will close on Friday, June 5, 2026 at 5:00 PM. Online applications that are submitted before 5:00 PM on June 5 will be processed. Applications that are submitted and received in person or by phone on June 5 by 5:00 PM will be processed. Households are encouraged to submit an application prior to Friday’s deadline. 

Eligible applicants are given one benefit per household for the purchase and installation of air conditioner or fan.

If an air conditioner cannot be safely installed, a fan will be provided.

Installation for a window, portable air conditioner or fan cannot exceed $800. For an existing wall sleeve unit, installation cannot exceed $1,000. No additional HEAP cash benefits are available.

You can apply online, by phone, or in person.

You may be eligible for a HEAP Cooling Assistance Component benefit if your household meets the HEAP benefit gross monthly income guidelines and other eligibility requirements.

Learn more about the HEAP Cooling Assistance Component benefit.

Determine if you may be eligible for other HRA programs on ACCESS NYC.

You can apply for the HEAP Cooling Assistance Component benefit online, by phone, or in person at a local HRA Benefits Center.

When you apply by phone or in person, you can get help with:

  • Eligibility
  • Application process
  • Required documentation

Online

Use the ACCESS HRA website from anywhere and at any time to apply for HEAP Cooling Assistance benefits.

You can submit documents using the Document Upload feature on the ACCESS HRA Mobile App.

Online submissions will require the selection of two HEAP participating vendors who can install an air conditioner. Visit the OTDA website for a list of HEAP participating vendors.

By Phone

You must speak to an agent during business hours to apply by phone.

  • Agency: Human Resources Administration
  • Phone Number: (718) 557-1399
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 8 AM - 5 PM
  • Staff is available during business hours (except on City holidays). You can get help in most languages. The automated phone system is always available.

In Person

You can apply in person by visiting certain HRA Benefits Access Centers or community outreach site near you.

Find a location near you.

The Human Resources Administration has 30 business days from the date your application is reviewed to make a decision on your application. A notice is mailed to you when a decision is made on your application.

​You can check your Cooling Assistance application status online or by phone.

Online

Visit the ACCESS HRA website or the ACCESS HRA Mobile App from anywhere and at any time and log into your ACCESS HRA account.

By Phone

  • Agency: Human Resources Administration
  • Phone Number: (718) 557-1399
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 8 AM - 5 PM
  • Staff is available during business hours (except on City holidays). You can get help in most languages. The automated phone system is always available.

You are responsible for maintaining the air conditioner. This includes:

  • Removing, covering, and storing it during the winter
  • Reinstalling it the next summer

If there is a problem after installation, contact the company who makes the air conditioner or the vendor who installed it. If you do not have the vendor’s information, you can request it from HEAP.

  • Agency: Human Resources Administration
  • Phone Number: (718) 557-1399
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 8 AM - 5 PM
  • Staff is available during business hours (except on City holidays). You can get help in most languages. The automated phone system is always available.

 Was this information helpful?   Yes    No

Follow NYC311

Download the NYC311 Mobile App

About NYC311 Send Feedback NYC311 Privacy Policy