Financial Assistance / HEAP

H.E.A.P. Benefits

  • Once we receive written confirmation of your H.E.A.P. benefit, we’ll call you to schedule your delivery. This usually happens within 3 to 7 business days after confirmation is received.

    A few important things to know:

    • We cannot deliver oil until we receive official written approval from H.E.A.P. Delivering before confirmation could jeopardize our status as a licensed vendor.

    • H.E.A.P. customers are never charged extra fees or higher per-gallon rates.

    • Regular H.E.A.P. benefits are issued between November 18th and March 19th. Keep in mind, while we often receive confirmation promptly, actual funds from the state may take weeks or months to arrive — this does not delay your delivery once confirmation is in hand.

    If you have questions about the status of your application, we recommend reaching out to your local Department of Social Services or Office for the Aging.

  • We know those letters can be confusing! Here's what's happening:

    After the state sends us a HEAP payment, both you and Smith & Sons receive a confirmation notice by mail. These are often sent out weeks or even months after your delivery has already been made.

    So while it may look like a new benefit was just approved, it's usually just a record of payment for fuel that was already delivered under your previous HEAP benefit.

    If you believe the letter is referring to a new benefit, or if you’re unsure, the best thing to do is contact your local Department of Social Services or Office for the Aging. They’ll be able to confirm your benefit status and clarify any updates.

  • We understand how stressful that situation can be, and you’re not alone. Here are a few options to explore:

    • You can schedule a delivery and pay by cash, check, or credit card if that’s available to you.

    • If you don’t have the funds, you may qualify for FEMA assistance through Catholic Charities in Johnstown or Amsterdam. FEMA can often help cover a minimum delivery of 100 gallons if you meet their eligibility requirements.

    • Fulmont Community Action Agency may also be able to provide assistance under their Emergency Food & Shelter Program - call for more information

    • We also accept Care & Share payments made through National Grid in coordination with your local Office for the Aging.

    • Regular HEAP benefits are issued between November 18th and March 19th, but we cannot deliver under HEAP unless we have official confirmation of your benefit.

    • If you’re in a true emergency with no heat, the Department of Social Services (DSS) may be able to provide temporary warm shelter or relocation assistance until a longer-term solution is available.

    • For additional information visit your county’s social service website

    Click here to see if you qualify under the income guidelines here ‍ for the Temporary Assistance program. For homes with children use the 200% guideline. For homes without children you will use the 125% guideline. If your income qualifies you reach out to your local DSS office and ask about the TA/PA assistance.

    Don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re happy to talk you through your options and help point you in the right direction for additional support.

  • New York state has many affiliated clean and tune vendors they recommend when federal funding is available.

    Visit New York States website.

    Select Participating Vendors/HEAP applicant list, choose your county and the fuel type for an up to date list of vendors.