1. How it Works
The Cooling Assistance benefit helps eligible households buy and install an air conditioner or fan up to a cost of $800.
- Applications are closed for the summer of 2022.
- Air conditioners are given on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible applicants.
- If an air conditioner cannot be safely installed, a fan will be provided.
- Applicants are only eligible for a Cooling Assistance benefit once every five years.
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More ways to get help with this program
Visit the website
Visit the NYS OTDA website for more information on the Cooling Assistance benefit.
Call 311
Ask for help with the Cooling Assistance benefit.
Call HEAP
Call the HEAP Conference Line at 212-331-3126 if you have questions about the benefit.
2. Determine your eligibility
You are eligible if all these apply to you:
- Someone in your household is a U.S. Citizen or has satisfactory immigration status.
- You do not have a working air conditioner. Or, the one you have is five years old or older.
- You did not get a HEAP-funded air conditioner in the last five years.
- One of these:
- You get SNAP benefits, Temporary Assistance (TA), or Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI Living Alone).
- You’re getting a Regular HEAP benefit of $21 or more in the current program year and live in government subsidized housing (like NYCHA or Section 8) with heat included in your rent.
- Your household’s gross monthly income is at or below the guidelines in this table:
| Household Size | Maximum Gross Monthly Income |
| 1 | $2,729 |
| 2 | $3,569 |
| 3 | $4,409 |
| 4 | $5,249 |
| 5 | $6,088 |
| 6 | $6,928 |
| 7 | $7,086 |
| 8 | $7,243 |
| 9 | $7,401 |
| 10 | $7,558 |
| 11 | $7,715 |
| 12 | $7,873 |
| 13 | $8,420 |
| For each additional person | Add $568 |
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