We know that times are tough in our community, in our region and our country, with many households struggling to stretch their dollars. The following resources are intended to help with this burden.
Finding Cheaper Gas & Improving Gas Mileage
The U.S. Dept. of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy offers www.fueleconomy.gov, a source for fuel economy information.
Child Tax Credit FAQs
The IRS offers information about federal Child Tax Credit.
Free Tax Filing Assistance/Post Filing Assistance
IRS Free File lets qualified taxpayers prepare and file federal income tax returns online using guided tax preparation software. It’s safe, easy and no cost to you. Those who don’t qualify can still use Free File Fillable Forms.
The IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals.
The IRS offers the ability to check on the status of a refund you maybe expecting.
Help with Groceries and Housing
The Regional Food Bank is a not-for-profit organization that collects donated food from the food industry and distributes it to partner agencies and programs feeding people in need throughout 23 counties of northeastern New York. Our region is served by the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern NY.
The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance lists local Departments of Social Services.
The U.S. Dept of Agriculture’s Shop Simple with MyPlate app helps users find savings in their area and discover new ways to prepare budget-friendly foods.
Help with Utilities and Bills
New York State Department of Public Service (NYS DPS) assists consumers with service and billing issues regarding electric, natural gas, steam, telephone, cable tv and water utilities. The website advises contacting your service provider before filing your complaint. Utilities are required by law to respond and address your concerns.
The Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) allows eligible families and seniors to qualify for help lowering costs with staying warm, with utilities, and with energy repairs.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) EmPower+ program helps low- and moderate-income households save energy and money toward energy improvements made to their primary residence.
The New York State’s Office of Homes and Community Renewal’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) assists income-eligible homeowners and some renters by reducing heating and cooling costs through energy-conservation measures, while also addressing health and safety issues in their homes.
- Weatherization Assistance Program website
- Find a weatherization provider on the NYHousingSearch.gov website.
The U.S. Dept. of Energy offers information about tax credits for home energy upgrades, fall and winter energy saving tips, energy audits and general heating and cooling best practices.