News release

Application Deadline for Home Heating Assistance Rebate Approaching

Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations (Oct. 2000 - March 2014)

Nova Scotians who need some extra help heating their homes still have time to apply for assistance under the province's Heating Assistance Rebate Program.

The program offers a cash rebate of up to $200 for eligible applicants who heat their homes with oil, electricity, wood, propane, wood pellets, natural gas or coal.

"I encourage Nova Scotians who may be eligible to apply for the rebate," said John MacDonell, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "Staff is on hand to help anyone who needs help completing the application or has any questions and people shouldn't hesitate to call."

Families with net annual incomes under $42,000 and single people under $27,000 qualify for the rebate.

The deadline for applications is Thursday, March 31.

Applications are available at Access Nova Scotia centres, MLA offices, Department of Community Services' offices and online at www.homeheatinghelp.ca. People can call 1-800-670-4357 with questions.

It may take up to six weeks for completed applications to be processed and eligible Nova Scotians to receive the rebate.

To date, more than 40,000 Nova Scotians received the rebate.

All Nova Scotian families are getting extra help with electricity costs since government removed the provincial portion of the HST from home electricity charges.

"We are committed to making life better and more affordable for all Nova Scotians," said Mr. MacDonell.