How to apply for Orange County DSS — HEAP Energy Assistance (Orange County) in New York
Orange County Department of Social Services (DSS) — administers NY HEAP for Orange County as the local OTDA delivery agent; Orange OFA also accepts HEAP applications for seniors 60+ via priority pathway
Who it's for
Orange County DSS delivers NY's HEAP: Regular HEAP (annual heating help), Emergency HEAP (utility shut-off / fuel-out crises), and Cooling Assistance (AC unit). Eligibility approximately at 60% State Median Income. Seniors age 60+ may apply through Orange OFA (845-615-3700) for priority processing. Orange DSS HEAP line: 845-291-2002. Apply online at mybenefits.ny.gov.
Orange: County DSS delivery of NY HEAP. Application windows are seasonal — Regular and Emergency HEAP close in spring; Cooling opens around April 15.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Discover my benefitsWhat you'll need
- Proof of all household income
- Recent heating bill (or rent receipt if heat included)
- Proof of Orange County residency
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Photo identification
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 845-291-2002
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Orange County DSS — HEAP Energy Assistance (Orange County). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of all household income, recent heating bill (or rent receipt if heat included), proof of Orange County residency — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
annual application per program year
Related programs
Other help that people in the same situation often look at.
- Emergency AidOrange County Emergency Aid — Referral CoordinationOrange County DSS + OFA + community-based organizations — coordinated emergency aid framework
- Emergency AidNY HEAP — Home Energy Assistance Program (Regular + Emergency + Cooling)New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) — administers the federal LIHEAP-funded HEAP through 58 county Departments of Social Services (NYC HRA for the 5 boroughs)
- EmploymentSenior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP)U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration
- Income SupportSupplemental Security Income (SSI)Social Security Administration
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Discover my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.