Health Insurance & Medical Costs · Surprise rank #380
Medical Condition? Stop a Utility Shutoff Under New York Law
HEFPA regulations severely restrict utility shutoffs for households with life-support equipment, medical emergencies, or vulnerable members (elderly/children) during extreme weather.
Who
Residential gas and electric customers facing termination.
Where: Statewide for regulated utilities; PSEG Long Island has related but distinct rules.
What to do
Start here: Call the utility immediately, state the medical or household vulnerability, request a deferred-payment agreement and call DPS if unresolved.
Eligibility: Customer must contact the utility and provide required medical or household information.
What you get
New York restricts when and how residential utilities may shut off service and requires special procedures for medical emergencies, elderly/disabled households and cold weather.
Benefit: Delay or prevention of shutoff, payment agreements and emergency continuation of essential service.
Possible value: Avoidance of dangerous loss of heat, electricity or gas; financial value varies.
Good to know
Important: Protection delays or structures payment but usually does not erase the balance.
Availability: Before the shutoff date; medical certifications may require renewal.
Why people miss it: A final notice looks absolute, so customers do not invoke medical or hardship protections.
Sources reviewed: Aug 2, 2026