Financial assistance to help pay for and install an air conditioner or fan

May 13, 2024   1405

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With summer temperatures soaring, the need for effective cooling solutions becomes critical, especially for vulnerable populations. The Cooling Assistance Benefit, facilitated by the NYC Human Resources Administration (HRA) and the NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA), aims to provide financial assistance to eligible households for the purchase and installation of air conditioning units or fans.
 

How the Benefit Works

• Application Period: The application process for the Cooling Assistance Benefit begins on April 15, 2024.
• Funding Approach: This benefit is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, making early application crucial for eligible households.

Benefit Valuation:

• Up to $800 can be allocated for the purchase and installation of window or portable air conditioners or fans.
• Up to $1,000 is available for the installation of air conditioning units in existing wall sleeves.

Coverage Includes:

• Full cost of the air conditioning unit or fan.
• Administrative expenses and labor costs associated with the installation.
• Program support and materials needed for installation.
• Services for the removal of old units and minor repairs essential for the new installation.

 

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility for the Cooling Assistance Benefit depends on several factors:

• HEAP Eligibility: Applicants must be eligible for or currently receiving benefits from the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).
• Household Composition Criteria: Eligibility extends to households that include any of the following:
  • At least one individual with a medically documented condition exacerbated by heat.
  • Elderly persons aged 60 or above.
  • Children under the age of six.
  • U.S. Citizens or individuals with satisfactory immigration status.
  • Households without a functioning air conditioner or one that is at least five years old.
  • Households that have not received a HEAP-funded air conditioner within the last five years.
• Financial Eligibility

 The gross monthly income of your household is equal to or less than the guidelines in this table:

Household Size	Maximum Gross Monthly Income for 2024
1	$3,035
2	$3,970
3	$4,904
4	$5,838
5	$6,772
6	$7,706
7	$7,881
8	$8,056
9	$8,231
10	$8,407
11	$8,582
12	$8,890
13	$9,532
For each additional person	Add $642

 

Documentation Required

To apply for the Cooling Assistance Benefit, applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:

• Proof of Residence: Valid documents include a current rent receipt, utility bills, homeowner or renter’s insurance policies, or mortgage payment receipts showing the address.
• Proof of Income: This could include recent pay stubs, business records, or a filed federal tax return if self-employed.
• Proof of Identity: Acceptable forms of identification include a driver's license, photo ID, U.S. passport, or school records.
• Medical Documentation: If applicable, medical documentation must be provided, verifying heat-exacerbated health conditions through a written statement from a healthcare professional.

How to Apply

Online Applications: Applications are accepted through the ACCESS HRA portal starting April 15, 2024. The ACCESS HRA mobile app can be used for document submission and application status checks.

For a comprehensive understanding of the application process, eligibility criteria, and documentation requirements, visit Cooling Assistance Benefit.

Apply by mail:

Call 718-557-1399 to have an application mailed to you.
Select two contractors from this list (HVAC contractors). Include their information on your application.
Mail your completed application to
New York City Home Energy Assistance Program
P.O. Box 1401, Church Street Station
New York, NY, 10008

Applications for Cooling Assistance opened April 15, 2024.

1. Call 718-557-1399 to get an application sent to you.
2. Select two vendors from this list (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) vendors). Include their information on your application.
3. Submit your application at an office near you.