The state office that coordinates aid for home heating costs opens today.

Gov. David A. Paterson announced that the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) will open to provide energy assistance benefits that elderly and low-income households can rely on to keep their homes warm in the winter.

HEAP is a federally funded program administered by the state.

This season, the maximum regular benefit a household can receive is $700.

Eligibility levels also have been changed. A family of four with a household income of up to $46,837 now is eligible for assistance, up from $45,312.

Applications were mailed to all households that received a HEAP benefit during the 2008-09 season, and they may be mailed back without the need to visit a local office.

New applicants may apply at their local department of social services beginning today.

New Yorkers can check to see if they may be eligible for HEAP and by answering questions online at

www.myBenefits.ny.gov

.