What is cash assistance and am I eligible for cash assistance?

What is Cash Assistance?

• Cash Assistance is a state and federally funded benefit program that provides a cash benefit to eligible individuals, couples, and families. In New York City, Cash Assistance is administered by the Human Resources Administration (HRA).
• Cash Assistance is delivered twice monthly on a debit-like card that can be used at ATMs or any store where EBT cards are accepted.
• Cash Assistance generally includes assistance with utility and shelter expenses.
• Some people who receive Cash Assistance are also eligible for SNAP (food stamps) and Medicaid.
• People who receive Cash Assistance may be required to participate in work or education programs. HRA will provide childcare and transportation to individuals if they are required to work.

Am I eligible for Cash Assistance?

• Cash Assistance is for people with limited income and resources.
• Cash Assistance eligibility is determined on a case by case basis and depends upon income, resources, immigration status, and family size.
• Every person has a right to apply for Cash Assistance and to receive a written decision on their eligibility.

How much could I receive in Cash Assistance?

• Cash Assistance benefits are based on household size, rent, and income. For example, the maximum amount of Cash Assistance (excluding the shelter allowance) for an individual is $183.00/month and for a household of three it is $389.00/month.

What do I need to provide to qualify for Cash Assistance?

You need to prove multiple different things and provide many documents as part of your cash public assistance application. You can find a comprehensive listing of what you need to complete your application in HRA Form W-119D (scroll down the page). You need to prove things such as:

• Proof of income and resources
• Proof of identity and age
• Proof of household composition
• Proof of residence and household expenses n Proof of citizenship or immigration status

How do I apply for Cash Assistance?

You can apply for cash public assistance through the NYC Human Resources Administration (HRA). You can apply online or in-person. For people with disabilities who cannot apply online or in person due to medical reasons, you can apply by phone or by having HRA come to you.

• Apply online at ACCESS HRA: accesshra.nyc.gov 
• Call the HRA Infoline at 718-557-1399 or 311 and request an application by mail. Fax or mail your completed application to one of the HRA Benefit Access Centers below.
• In person at one of the HRA Benefit Access Centers Monday – Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm

How do I get the documents to HRA?

You can submit the documents by going to a Benefits Access Center, where you will generally be given access to scanners to send the document. If you are using the Access HRA application on your smart device, you can upload your documents through the application. If you do not have the Access HRA application on your smart device, then you need to download a free specific application called “NYC HRA Document Upload.” Search for “HRA” in whatever online app store you’re using. If you cannot submit your documents through these methods due to a disability, then HRA should come to you or provide other assistance to submit documents.

For free legal help, call Legal Services NYC at 917-661-4500 Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Learn more about our intake process here.

* The information does not constitute legal advice. You should always consult an attorney regarding your matter. Legal help subject to capacity and location.