LIBERTY – The 2025-2026 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is now available after a delay to assist low-income residents with heating benefits.

 “The original date of November 3 was delayed due to the federal government shutdown. Now that the shutdown has ended, we’re glad to be able to offer this lifeline to eligible Sullivan County residents,” notes Sullivan County Health & Human Services Commissioner John Liddle.

 Sullivan County’s HEAP Office has been open all along to answer questions and help applicants (845-807-0142, heap@sullivanny.gov). Those who already received early outreach letters will automatically receive their HEAP benefit. Those who have yet to apply should do so at www.mybenefits.ny.gov/ or at the Department of Social Services, but please call ahead to confirm.

 Applications can also be obtained from the county’s community partners (please call first):

 • Action Toward Independence, 845-794-4228

• Independent Living, 845-794-3322

• Sullivan County Office for the Aging, 845-807-0241

 Eligibility and benefits are based on income, household size, the primary heating source, and whether or not the household has a member who is under age 6, over age 60 or permanently disabled.

 HEAP this year will provide a one-time benefit of between $400 and $996 for a delivery of home heating fuel, dependent on the type of system used at the residence. (An Emergency HEAP benefit, offering another fuel payment, is anticipated to become available in January.)

The Sullivan County HEAP Office can be reached at 845-807-0142 (hit option #2) or heap@sullivanny.gov.