HARTFORD, Conn. -- The state has started taking applications for winter heating aid, according to Gov. Jodi Rell.

She said eligible residents include low-income and some middle-income households under state energy assistance programs.

With heating oil prices expected to top $5 per gallon, Rell said the state intends to distribute a record $84 million this winter to more than 90,000 households. This year's plan makes substantial increases in "safety net" benefit levels for the elderly, low-income families and other vulnerable households.

"We have all watched heating oil prices reach record levels and know for certain that many Connecticut families and senior citizens are headed for a financial crisis just to stay warm this winter if we do not act now," Rell said.

For full eligibility requirements or to apply, call the Department of Social Services’ Winter Heating Aid hot line at 800-842-1132 or visit its Web site.