The New York Enhanced Energy Affordability Program (EEAP) lowers energy costs for low- and moderate-income households by offering a fixed discount on their monthly energy bills. Customers who qualify can receive different levels of assistance based on their household size, yearly income and utility provider.
The program, launched in January, is a two-year experimental expansion of the existing Energy Affordability Program (EAP). The EAP is automatically offered to households enrolled in specific governmental assistance programs, such as Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The EEAP allows those who are not eligible for EAP – either because their income is too high or because they aren’t enrolled in the other government programs to get discounted energy bills.
Who qualifies for this benefit?
Both homeowners and renters may apply for this benefit. Households must have an active electric/gas account, must not be enrolled in the standard EAP and must fall within the specified income range.
What are the maximum annual income levels?
There is no defined minimum income for households to be considered eligible. The program aims to assist those earning up to 100% of the State Median Income. This means a cap of roughly $69,477 for a one-person household, and up to $133,609 for a four-person household. The levels also vary according to the utility company, so it is best to verify on their website, or to simply apply for a clear determination.
How can I apply?
The fastest way to apply is online, via the application portal. However, interested customers can also mail or fax their application.
For applications via mail or fax, download a paper application and mail/fax it along with your supporting documents. Incomplete applications may result in longer processing times.
Application packages are available in the following languages:
If you mail or fax additional documentation, you must include the unique application number assigned to your case if you applied online, which may be known as your “reference ID number”. Documentation submitted without a reference ID number may cause processing delays.
Mail applications to:
CLEAResult – NY EEAP
16350 Felton Rd.
Lansing, MI 48906
Fax: 517-580-5123
Which utility companies does this apply to?
Participating utility companies are:
- Central Hudson Gas & Electric
- Con Edison
- National Fuel
- National Grid
- NYSEG
- Orange & Rockland
- RG&E
Households paying an electric or natural gas account with a company that is not on the list can contact their company directly to find out what bill assistance might be available.
What are the required documents?
Pay stubs, self-employment records, social security or pension statements can all be submitted as proof of income. There must be enough proof to show one full month of income.
You must submit all required documentation within 14 days of applying. If not, the application will be disqualified.
Is there support available?
If you have questions during the application process, or run into any issues, support is available at the number 877-400-2501 or by contacting the email address nyeeap@clearesult.com.
What happens once I am approved?
If you are approved, your utility will be automatically informed and you will receive the EEAP discount within the next two billing cycles. If the discount does not appear after two billing cycles, you should reach out to the utility company.
Your account will remain enrolled in the bill discount program for 18 months from the date the credit is applied to your utility bill.
Can I appeal if my application is denied?
Yes. If you do not agree with your request being rejected or believe there was a mistake, you can call the EEAP agents at 877-400-2501 to discuss your case.
You can also re-apply through the online portal if your situation has changed, or you were denied for not providing all required supporting documents.
In the event that you are ultimately ineligible for EEAP, contact your utility provider directly to discuss other assistance or payment options.
