Customers who qualify for rental relief may also receive assistance on their past due utility bills under the New York State Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). This federally funded program was developed to aid income-qualified residents experiencing significant economic distress as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic with rental assistance and utility arrears payments. 

“The Emergency Rental Assistance Program provides needed relief for our most vulnerable customers, and we encourage qualified households to take advantage of this funding,” said Anthony Campagiorni, Vice President of Customer Services and Gas Operations at Central Hudson. “Reducing rental and utility arrears can help residents and our communities begin a path toward recovery.”

Through ERAP, recipients can qualify for up to 12 months of rent and electric and gas bill payments for past due amounts accrued since March 13, 2020. Eligibility criteria and enrollment information for ERAP is available at https://nysrenthelp.otda.ny.gov/en/.

In addition to ERAP, the federally funded Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is available to both renters and homeowners. Grants of up to $350 or more is offered to income qualified households and enrollees receive up to 12 months of utility bill credits to reduce overall energy costs. Residents can learn more at www.CentralHudson.com/Account-Resources/Assistance-Programs/HEAP/.

For more information on all of Central Hudson’s assistance programs, visit www.CentralHudson.com/Account-Resources/Assistance-Programs/. To apply for ERAP, visit otda.ny.gov/ERAP or call (844) 691-7368 to speak with a case specialist with the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. Hearing impaired residents can use TTY services by calling 1-(833)-843-8829. A short video about the ERAP application process at is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lh19INyhmjg.