You are not eligible for EPIC if you are covered by Medicaid or an insurance plan which provides equal or better coverage for prescriptions. People over 65 or disabled who have low incomes are subject to different qualifications than other medically needy. Ownership of a home should not be viewed as an obstacle, but other resources must be limited to qualify. The Home Energy Assistance Program is designed to provide a one time each year payment to assist low income households with the cost of heating fuel. People over age 60 who head a household are given special priority and may apply for their benefit by mail.
Eligibility is based on income and type of heating arrangement.
Benefits are generally paid to the fuel dealer or utility and applied to the applicant's account. People age 60 and over, or those who receive Social Security Disability benefits may apply for HEAP through the Office for the Aging Energy Unit. The American Red Cross also administers an emergency assistance program which acts as the resource of last resort in providing financial aid for fuel and utility emergencies. Applicants must have exhausted other sources of aid before applying for a FEMA grant. The energy unit of the Office for the Aging can provide information about and referral to these programs.