TO:	Commissioners, TA/FS Directors, HEAP Liaisons

FROM:	Russell Sykes, Deputy Commissioner

SUBJECT:	 2004-2005 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

EFFECTIVE DATE:	November 3, 2004

CONTACT PERSON:	Western Regional Team (518) 473-0332

This is to remind local social services districts that the Regular and Emergency components of HEAP open November 3, 2004.

•	Applications for regular and emergency HEAP benefits must be accepted beginning November 3, 2004.

•	Each local district is responsible for announcing the opening of HEAP in their district.

•	Applicants must be notified of the eligibility decision within thirty (30) business days of receipt of a signed, completed application.

•	A household must be referred to Temporary Assistance programs and/or community resources when HEAP cannot resolve the Emergency.

•	All applications for Emergency benefits must be made in person with full documentation.  The only exception to this is that recipients of recurring TA or FS benefits may request emergency benefits via telephone when the recipient is the documented customer and tenant of record.

•	The emergency situation of an eligible household without heat must be resolved within 18 hours and within 48 hours if loss of heat is imminent.

•	Districts are expected to begin payments within thirty (30) business days of initial receipt of funds from this Office and to make payments regularly throughout the program depending on the availability of funds.

•	A signed Vendor Agreement must be on file in order to issue payments to that vendor.

Detailed information on HEAP policy and procedures is provided in the HEAP Manual.