New Yorkers are being asked to review their utility bills and see whether they qualify for assistance.

As part of that effort, Governor Kathy Hochul is promoting a statewide sign-up campaign for a program that can cut annual utility costs by up to $500 for millions of households.

Here's what to know

Officials estimated that roughly 2.5 million households may qualify for the state's Energy Affordability Program, which provides utility bill discounts to eligible residents. About 1 million New Yorkers have applied, as WABC reported.

Households qualify if their income is below either the statewide median or the median income for their area. The standard makes the program available to many more residents, including some middle-income families.

On Long Island, a five-person household earning $178,100 or less can qualify. In New York City, the income limit for a three-person household is $145,800.

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More background

The enrollment push comes as energy costs remain a major source of financial pressure for families statewide. Utility bills can jump sharply during high-demand seasons, making even a few hundred dollars in annual savings meaningful for households juggling rent, groceries, transportation, and child care.

Rising gas costs are behind a $1 billion energy relief effort from the state. Hochul has also announced that eligible households could receive separate one-time rebate checks of up to $200 through that plan.

The issue has also become a political flashpoint. Nassau County executive Bruce Blakeman criticized Hochul's efforts, saying, "Kathy Hochul thinks we're stupid and we don't know that she's trying to buy votes because she knows that her utility bills have skyrocketed. Our utility rates are 70% higher...than the national average. And what is she giving us? Peanuts."

What can be done?

Families who think they may fall within the updated income limits can apply at NY.gov/EAP. Whether a household qualifies depends on its size and region, and the revised criteria mean some residents may be eligible when they were not before.

For households thinking longer term, EnergySage's free services can also help lower energy costs in a different way. With EnergySage's help, the average person can save up to $10,000 on solar purchases and installations.

EnergySage's solar map shows the average cost of a home solar panel system by state, as well as details on local incentives. Together, these resources can help readers get the best price for rooftop solar panels.

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"We also understand the enormous pressures that families and businesses are under, and we're helping do whatever we can," Hochul said.

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