Checked October 10, 2026
Help paying bills in New York
Behind on your electric, gas or rent in New York? Here are the real programs, who to call, and what to do first. All free.
Do these 3 things first
- Call your utility and ask for a deferred payment agreement. Ask if you qualify for the Energy Affordability Program discount.
- Apply for HEAP when the season opens (usually in the fall). Outside NYC, apply at myBenefits. In NYC, apply through ACCESS HRA.
- Behind on rent in NYC? Ask about a One Shot Deal. Elsewhere, call your county social services office.
Help with electric and gas bills
HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program)
Helps pay for heat, utilities and heating repairs. Payments go straight to your utility, and you can qualify even if heat is included in your rent. The regular benefit is usually open from fall through early spring. An emergency benefit can help with a heating emergency after the regular benefit is used. NYC help line: 718-557-1399, or call 311.
Energy Affordability Program (EAP)
A monthly discount on your electric and gas bill from major utilities. You may qualify if your income is under the state (or area) median, or if you get HEAP, SNAP, Medicaid or SSI. People on public assistance may be enrolled automatically. Otherwise, apply with your utility or at nyeeap.com. Amounts vary by utility.
Got a shutoff notice?
Under New York's Home Energy Fair Practices Act (HEFPA), utilities must give at least 15 days' notice before a shutoff, and shutoffs are not allowed during a two-week period around Christmas and New Year's. A HEAP grant or a deferred payment agreement can stop a shutoff. If your utility won't work with you, contact the Department of Public Service.
If your utility won't help: NY Department of Public Service
Behind on rent
In NYC, a One Shot Deal from HRA can pay back rent to prevent eviction. You must show you can afford rent going forward, and most people repay some or all of it. Apply on ACCESS HRA, then call 929-273-1872 for your interview. Outside NYC, apply for emergency assistance at your county Department of Social Services. Free legal help: Legal Aid Society, 212-577-3300.
Food, health care and phone
SNAP, HEAP and Public Assistance (outside NYC)
Apply online through the state's myBenefits site.
NYC residents
Apply for SNAP, cash help, HEAP and One Shot Deals through ACCESS HRA.
Lifeline (phone or internet discount)
A federal discount on one phone or internet plan if you get SNAP, Medicaid, SSI or meet income rules.
Lower the bills you pay every month
A 60-second check of your phone, car insurance, bank fees and credit. Free options first.
Make a plan for the next few months
Once the emergency is handled, see where your money goes and which bills to pay from each paycheck. The Budget Starter is free. The Debt Freedom Planner adds your debt-free date and a credit rebuild plan.
Dealing with it right now? The Hard Month Kit ($9) has printable call scripts, a hardship letter and a bill priority worksheet.
We sell the planner. It never changes the advice on this page. How we make money.
Watch out for scams
Real help programs never charge a fee to apply. Never pay with gift cards, wire transfers or crypto, and never give your login or PIN to anyone who calls you. Report scams at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Sources
Program details change. Confirm with the program before you rely on a date or amount.