Hot weather shouldn’t mean health risks or high bills. If you’re feeling the heat this summer, New York and New Jersey both offer free help to keep your home cool. These state-run programs are here for working families like yours; HEAP & LIHEAP.
Apply early. These programs often run out of funds fast.
For Drivers in New York: Free Air Conditioners Through HEAP
If you live in New York, you may qualify for a free air conditioner through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).
Application period: Open now, as of April 15, 2025.
What’s offered:
- One air conditioner (window or portable), or a fan if an AC can’t be safely installed
- Up to $800 for most AC units or fans
- Up to $1,000 if you have a wall unit that needs replacing
Note: This program does not help with electricity bills. It only covers the equipment.
You may qualify if:
- Your household meets the income limits (for example: $3,322/month or less for 1 person, $6,390/month or less for a family of 4)
- You or someone in your home has a medical condition made worse by heat, or
- There’s a child under 6 or an adult aged 60 or older in your household
- You’re a U.S. citizen or have legal status
- You don’t currently have a working AC, or yours is over 5 years old
- You haven’t received a HEAP AC in the past 5 years
How to apply:
- Online:
- By Phone: Contact your HEAP Local District Contact. NYC residents can call the HRA Infoline/HEAP Phone Number at 718-557-1399.
- In Person: Visit your local Department of Social Services office or HEAP contact.
What to bring:
- ID for everyone in your home
- Social Security numbers
- Proof of income for the past month
- Proof of address
- Medical documents if applying based on health
- A copy of your current electric bill
For Drivers in New Jersey: Help With Cooling Bills Through LIHEAP
New Jersey’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can help pay for cooling if it’s medically needed.
Application period: October 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025
What’s offered:
- Up to $300 toward your cooling bill
- The money is usually sent straight to your electric company
You may qualify if:
- You pay for cooling (directly or as part of your rent)
- Your income is below the limit (for example: $3,991/month or less for 1 person, $7,676/month or less for a family of 4)
- You have a medical condition that requires cooling
- You’re not already receiving full housing help where utilities are included
How to apply:
- Online: Visit www.energyassistance.nj.gov
- Through Local Agencies: Apply through your county’s designated local community action agency or non-profit organization.
- By Phone: Call the NJ LIHEAP hotline at 1-800-510-3102 to find your local application agency or get more information.
- Mail/Home Visit Options: If you are aged 60 or over, or disabled, you may be able to apply by mail or request assistance with the application at home.
What to bring:
- ID for everyone in your home
- Social Security numbers (if available)
- Proof of income
- Proof of address
- A recent electric bill
- A note from your doctor showing cooling is medically needed
Don’t Wait. Apply Early
These programs are designed to protect families from extreme heat. If you think you might qualify, get your documents ready and apply as soon as possible.
