How to apply for cash assistance in NYC

Cash Assistance (also called public assistance) is monthly cash from HRA for living costs. It is not SNAP. The income rules are tighter. Apply on ACCESS HRA. The same application can also screen SNAP. You can be approved for SNAP even if Cash Assistance is denied. After you apply you must interview — call 929-273-1872, Monday–Friday 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m., or go to a Benefits Access Center.

How it is different from food stamps

• SNAP is groceries on an EBT card. Cash Assistance is cash (often also on EBT) for rent, utilities, and other needs.
• Cash Assistance usually requires work, training, or an assigned program if you are able to work and under 60.
• A child under 1 usually means they will not send you to a work site. Food stamp work rules use different ages.
• Immigration rules differ by program. HRA still takes the application.
• A “One Shot Deal” is emergency help (for example rent or utility arrears) through the Cash Assistance door — not a monthly grant.

Steps

1. Apply on ACCESS HRA. Choose Cash Assistance if you want cash help. SNAP and Medicaid are usually screened too.
2. Put papers in the ACCESS HRA phone app first.
3. Call 929-273-1872 for the Cash Assistance interview. One talk with a worker. This is not the SNAP number.
4. You also have a right to an in-center interview at a Benefits Access Center.

Sources: ACCESS NYC Cash Assistance, HRA CA interview instructions.