News release

Successful Heating Assistance Rebate Available

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

Nova Scotians who are most in need will once again benefit from the province's home heating rebate.

The Heating Assistance Rebate Program, an application-based program, offers a rebate of up to $200 for eligible applicants who heat their home with oil, natural gas, wood, wood pellets. propane, electricity or coal.

"We recognize the pressures facing today's families with the increasing cost of home heating," said Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations Minister John MacDonell. "We will continue to help Nova Scotians who are most in need heat their homes this winter. I encourage anyone who thinks they may be eligible, to apply for the rebate. This is another fine example of how government is helping to make life better and more affordable for families."

Households with net annual incomes of less than $42,000 and single people making less than $27,000 and who purchase home heating fuels, qualify for the rebate.

Last year, more than 50,000 Nova Scotians received the rebate. Applications have been mailed to last year's recipients to encourage them to re-apply. They must meet all program requirements for this year to receive the rebate.

"This rebate assists many seniors who struggle heating their homes during the winter months," said Bill VanGorder, board member and past president of the Canadian Association of Retired Persons. "We appreciate any ongoing support that helps to enable seniors to stay in their homes longer."

Applications are available at Access Nova Scotia centres, MLA offices, Department of Community Services' offices, online at www.homeheatinghelp.ca , or by calling 1-800-670-4357.

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