New York to Roll Out Electric and Gas Credits for Low Income Families

ALBANY, N.Y. (WENY) – New York is rolling out credits for electric and gas utility bills for low income families in the state.

The financial assistance program includes an estimated $557 million for a statewide COVID-19 bill credit program for low-income customers. Under the bill credit program, the state public service commission leveraged $250 million from the 2023 State Budget.

This will require utilities to provide a one-time credit to customers enrolled in the Energy Affordability Program that will eliminate unpaid utility bills that have accrued through May 1st.

“I am pleased to announce that the largest low-income utility financial assistance program in the state’s history rolls-out on Monday, August 1 – marking a major step forward in the state’s ongoing efforts to help New Yorkers maintain utility services,” Governor Hochul said. “No New Yorker should have their lights and air conditioning shut off as a result of financial problems caused by the pandemic. I applaud the State Legislature for their partnership to appropriate $250 million toward reducing the burden of utility arrears, which will be critical to helping vulnerable New Yorkers maintain their utility services, especially during these hot summer months.”

The governor’s office says more than 327,000 low-income New York households will directly benefit from the program.

The credit will reflect on customers’ August bills.