New York plans to begin taking applications shortly for federally funded home heating assistance of up to $625 this winter.

The program is open to both renters and homeowners outside New York City.

Applications can be filed starting Monday, Nov. 17.

Last year, more than 35,000 households applied online at http://myBenefits.ny.gov.

The state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance says eligibility is determined by income and how many people live in the household.

A household of four can earn up to $50,629 a year, or $4,219 a month, and still qualify.

Emergency benefits will be available through local social services departments after Jan. 2 for households in danger of running out of heating fuel or having utility services shut off.

Last winter, more than 1.5 million households statewide got help.

(AP)