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Resources / Assistance Finder / New York / Erie County

Here are programs that match your needs

4 programs available in Erie County, New York

  • Internet
  • Phone
$9.25/mo
Paper application

Federal Lifeline Program

Available statewide in New York

Federal FCC program providing a monthly discount on home phone, wireless phone, broadband internet, or bundled voice-broadband service from participating providers. One discount per household. Learn more

Eligibility criteria

  • Household income up to 135% of the Federal Poverty Level

Information to gather

  • Proof of program participation OR income documentation
  • Photo ID
  • Proof of address
  • Last 4 digits of Social Security
  • number or Tribal ID
  • Health
Eligible members pay no monthly premium or deductible. Small copays or other cost-sharing may apply.
Apply online

New York Essential Plan(New York Essential Plan)

Available statewide in New York

New York's Essential Plan is health coverage offered through NY State of Health, the state's official health insurance marketplace. Learn more

Eligibility criteria

  • You may qualify if you live in New York, are age 19–64, are lawfully present in the U.S., and meet the Essential Plan's income rules. You must not qualify for Medicaid, Child Health Plus, employer coverage, or other coverage. NY State of Health will check your information and tell you what coverage you may qualify for.

Since July 1, 2026, Essential Plan income eligibility is limited to 200% of the federal poverty level. NY State of Health determines eligibility using household income, size, and other coverage rules.

Information to gather

  • An email address to set up an account
  • Basic information about each person in your household
  • Household income information if you want help paying for coverage
  • Energy & Other Utilities
  • Emergency Support

Applications open seasonally. Check New York State’s HEAP page for current dates. For emergency assistance, contact your local HEAP district.

New York Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)(New York HEAP)

Available statewide in New York

HEAP may help with home heating costs. Other HEAP benefits may help during a heating emergency, with home cooling, or with repairs to heating equipment. Each type has its own rules and application period. Learn more

  • One regular heating benefit may be available per season. The amount depends on how your home is heated and your living situation. Some households may receive extra help based on income or a household member’s age or disability.

Eligibility criteria

  • Your household may qualify if its income is within the current limit for its size or someone in your home receives SNAP, Temporary Assistance, or qualifying Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Your heating source and household situation also affect which help may be available. Each household member must have a Social Security number and meet New York’s citizenship or immigration eligibility rules. Check the State’s HEAP page for current limits and application dates.

Information to gather

  • Proof of New York residency, such as a lease, rent receipt, or utility bill
  • Recent pay stubs for household members
  • Photo ID or another identity document for each household member
  • A current heating fuel or utility bill, or a landlord statement showing heat is included in rent
  • Social Security number for each household member
  • Any additional documents your local HEAP office requests
  • Food
Apply online

New York Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)(NY SNAP)

Available statewide in New York

SNAP provides monthly food benefits on a card you can use to buy groceries for your household. Learn more

  • Monthly benefit amounts vary by household size and circumstances. Maximum amounts change each year, and the amount for your household may be lower.

Eligibility criteria

  • Your household size, income, expenses, and other circumstances affect eligibility. You’ll have an interview, and the state may ask you for documents. Applying is the way to find out whether your household qualifies.

Information to gather

  • Recent pay stubs
  • A list of household resources
  • A current rent or mortgage statement
  • Utility bills
  • A current property tax bill and homeowners insurance bill, if you own your home
  • A Social Security card
  • Any other documents your local office requests

Erie County Division of Community Action

Community Action agencies change people’s lives, embody the spirit of hope, improve communities and make America a better place to live. They work at the local level to help community members that need it. Visit your local agency