**** Service Nova Scotia Release
Applications Open for Expanded Heating Assistance Rebate Program
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The newly expanded Heating Assistance Rebate Program (HARP) is now accepting applications to help more Nova Scotians than ever with rising home heating costs.
On December 14, Premier Tim Houston announced a $100-million funding increase to the program to allow more Nova Scotians to qualify and to provide a higher home heating rebate this winter. The rebate is now $1,000, up from $200. Households with a net income of up to $85,000 are eligible, a substantial increase from the previous income thresholds.
“The rising cost of living has created challenges for many Nova Scotians,” said Colton LeBlanc, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services. “We are taking action to ensure the heat stays on this winter. This year’s expanded Heating Assistance Rebate Program will help more people and provide more support than ever before.”
Anyone who has already qualified for a HARP rebate this year does not need to reapply. They will receive an additional payment to top them up to $1,000. People who were denied the rebate also do not need to reapply – their applications are under review, and applicants who meet the new eligibility criteria will receive the full rebate.
All eligible applicants will receive the rebate in two to eight weeks.
For more information on the program or to apply, visit: https://beta.novascotia.ca/programs-and-services/heating-assistance-rebate-program-harp . Application forms are also available at Access Nova Scotia and MLA offices.
The deadline for applications is March 31.
Quick Facts:
— to be eligible for HARP, people must pay for their own heating (sources include oil, electricity, coal, wood, wood pellets, propane and natural gas)
— the expanded program is for this winter only
— the previous income thresholds to qualify for HARP were $29,000 for single-income households and $44,000 for family-income households
Additional Resources:
News release – Province Expands Home Heating Program, Supports Vulnerable Nova Scotians: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20221214001
