Low-income New Yorkers will receive money from the state to pay utility bills

Low-income New Yorkers participating in a government program Energy Affordability Program (EAP), will receive a utility loan by August to help with unpaid bills, reports Silive.

The number of New Yorkers who have been unable to pay their utility bills has risen during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the pandemic exacerbated the financial problems of residents who were already struggling.

To help New Yorkers catch up on their bills, the state will provide $250 million to help low-income families pay off utility bills. This was announced by Governor Kathy Hokul.

The program will provide low-income residents of the state with a one-time utility loan. Bill payment credit is available to those already enrolled in the Energy Affordability Program EAP. And also to all low-income customers who enroll in the program by December 31, 2022.

Read more about how to apply here.

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“It is unacceptable that too many New Yorkers are facing blackouts due to non-payment of bills due to financial problems in the wake of the pandemic. To address this issue, the State Legislature and I have decided to allocate $250 million to reduce the utility debt burden,” Hokul said.

“Today's actions of the Civil Service Commission are based on budget allocations. This is an important step forward to help vulnerable New Yorkers get back on their feet,” she added.

More than 327 low-income families in New York City will benefit from this program, according to the state.