Essential Plan Cooling Program | New York State Department of Health
Resource Name:Essential Plan Cooling Program | New York State Department of Health
address
State Street, Albany, NY 12203
Eligibility
To qualify, you must submit an application for the Essential Plan Cooling Program and meet the following eligibility requirements:
Be enrolled in NY State of Health’s Essential Plan
Have persistent asthma
Meaning you experience asthma symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing attacks, chest tightness, or chest pain much of the time or need a daily medication for asthma to control your symptoms
Have not received a cooling unit in the past five years through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Cooling Program.
Request installation at the permanent residential address on file with NY State of Health
Agree to program terms and conditions
Required documents
Call or visit website for more information
(855) 355-5777
Voice
(866) 881-2809
Voice
Application process
Individuals should apply using the online application. You will get an email within approximately two to three weeks telling you if you are approved or denied
Service area
NY
Applications are now open as of April 15, 2026, and will be accepted through August 31, 2026, or until funding is exhausted.
Under the Essential Plan Cooling Program, NY State of Health will provide eligible Essential Plan members a free air conditioner to help keep their homes cool. The air conditioner will be delivered and installed by an approved vendor. This program is available to Essential Plan members with persistent asthma, meaning they experience asthma symptoms (such as shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing attacks, chest tightness, or chest pain) much of the time or need a daily medication for asthma to control their symptoms.
What's Here
Providing organization
New York State Department of Health