Emergency Assistance for Seniors in New York

Emergency Assistance, Resources, and Programs for Seniors in New York

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box — keep this handy

If you are in danger or need urgent help, use these numbers and links first. You can call for a family member, neighbor, or friend.

  • 911 — life-threatening emergency (police, fire, ambulance)
  • 988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for mental health or substance-use crises; call or text 988, or use chat at the 988 Lifeline site
  • 211 — local help with food, shelter, utilities, and more; find services at 211 New York
  • NYC 311 — city services and emergency help for New York City residents
  • NY Connects helpline (statewide aging services): 1-800-342-9871 and NY Connects website
  • Adult Protective Services (APS): find your county APS contact at NY Office of Children & Family Services APS
  • NYS Domestic & Sexual Violence Hotline: 1-800-942-6906 (call), text 844-997-2121, chat at New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence
  • Homeless, eviction, or rent crisis (NYC): apply for an HRA “One-Shot Deal” at NYC HRA Emergency Assistance; outside NYC: ask your county Department of Social Services for Emergency Safety Net (ESNA) or Emergency Assistance to Adults (EAA) at NYS OTDA Temporary Assistance
  • Elder fraud or scams: U.S. DOJ National Elder Fraud Hotline 1-833-372-8311 and NY Attorney General Consumer Frauds

Table: Who to call right now

Your situation Start here Direct link
Medical or safety emergency Call 911 N/A
Mental health crisis Call/text 988 https://988lifeline.org/
Abuse, neglect, self-neglect Contact APS in your county https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/adult-services/aps/
Domestic violence 1-800-942-6906 (call), 844-997-2121 (text) https://opdv.ny.gov/get-help
No heat, utility shutoff Apply for HEAP/utility help; call 211 https://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/
Eviction or rent arrears (NYC) HRA One-Shot Deal https://www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/emergency-assistance.page
Eviction or rent arrears (outside NYC) ESNA/EAA at your county DSS https://otda.ny.gov/programs/temporary-assistance/
Food today 211 or find a food pantry https://www.211ny.org/ and https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank
Medicaid transport to the doctor Medical Answering Services (MAS) https://www.medanswering.com/

Reality check:

  • Lines can be busy. If you can’t get through, try at a different time, leave a voicemail, and keep notes of who you spoke with and when.
  • Bring or upload documents quickly (ID, proof of address, income). Missing papers are the top reason for delays.

How to use this guide

  • This guide focuses on New York State programs and steps for older adults (generally ages 60+). Many help younger adults too.
  • Start with emergencies, then housing/energy, food, healthcare, and money.
  • Use NY Connects (statewide) and 211 to find local services. Local Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are your best “first stop.”

Documents you’ll often need

Document Why it matters
Photo ID (state ID or passport) Proves identity
Proof of address (lease, utility bill) Confirms where you live
Proof of income (Social Security letter, pension, pay stubs) Shows eligibility for many programs
Bank statement(s) Some programs have resource limits
Benefit award letters (SSI/SSP, SNAP, Medicaid) Speeds up approvals
Utility shutoff/eviction notices Needed for emergency help
Medical insurance cards (Medicare/Medicaid) For health and transport services

Tip: If you lost papers in a crisis or disaster, tell the agency. Many will accept alternate proof or help you replace documents.

Section 1: Emergency cash and crisis help (first 30–60 days)

These programs can pay rent/utility arrears or other urgent needs. They are not guaranteed and may require proof of a crisis.

  • NYC “One‑Shot Deal” (HRA)
    • What it is: Emergency cash assistance to stop eviction, utility shutoffs, or meet other sudden needs.
    • How it helps: Can cover rent arrears, security deposits, utilities, moving/storage, or other emergencies.
    • Where to apply: Online via NYC HRA Emergency Assistance or in person at an HRA Job Center.
    • Source: NYC Human Resources Administration — Emergency Assistance
  • Emergency Safety Net Assistance (ESNA)
    • What it is: State program for people who do not qualify for other cash aid and have an emergency.
    • How it helps: May pay for rent/utility arrears or essential needs when you have no other options.
    • Where to apply: Your county Department of Social Services (DSS); outside NYC, find your local DSS via NYS OTDA Temporary Assistance.
    • Source: NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA)
  • Emergency Assistance to Adults (EAA)
    • What it is: For SSI recipients who have an emergency (e.g., possible eviction, utility shutoff).
    • How it helps: May pay arrears or essential needs linked to the emergency.
    • Where to apply: County DSS (HRA in NYC).
    • Source: NYS OTDA — Temporary Assistance (Emergency Assistance)
  • Crime Victim Compensation
    • What it is: If you were the victim of a crime, you may be repaid for medical bills, relocation, lost items, counseling, and more.
    • Where to apply: New York State Office of Victim Services (OVS).
    • Source: OVS Compensation
  • Disaster help (storms, floods, fires)
    • What it is: After FEMA declares a disaster, you may get help for temporary housing, repairs, and other needs.
    • Where to apply: DisasterAssistance.gov; also check NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services for state resources.
    • Sources: FEMA Individual Assistance; NYS DHSES

Table: Emergency cash programs at a glance

Program Who it helps What it can pay Apply Official source
NYC HRA One‑Shot Deal NYC residents with a crisis Rent, utilities, moving/storage, other Online or HRA center https://www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/emergency-assistance.page
ESNA NYS residents with no other aid Rent/utility arrears, essentials County DSS https://otda.ny.gov/programs/temporary-assistance/
EAA SSI recipients with an emergency Arrears and essentials County DSS/HRA https://otda.ny.gov/programs/temporary-assistance/
Crime Victim Compensation Crime victims Medical, relocation, counseling OVS online or provider https://ovs.ny.gov/compensation
FEMA Individual Assistance Declared disaster areas Housing, repairs, other needs DisasterAssistance.gov https://www.disasterassistance.gov/

Reality check:

  • Emergency aid usually requires a sudden, documented crisis and proof you cannot pay.
  • You may be offered a repayment plan or a lien in some cases. Ask how it works before accepting.
  • Decisions can take days to weeks. If court dates are near, tell the worker right away and show your papers.

Section 2: Housing, eviction prevention, and home repairs

  • Eviction prevention and legal help
    • NYC: You may qualify for free legal help in Housing Court under the city’s Right-to-Counsel law (income limits apply). See Legal Services for Tenants and Housing Court Answers for guidance.
      • Sources: NYC HRA Legal Services for Tenants; Housing Court Answers
    • Statewide: Use LawHelpNY to find free or low-cost legal help. New York State Courts also offer plain-language guides.
      • Sources: LawHelpNY; NY Courts CourtHelp
  • Rent help and rent freezes
    • NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE/DRIE): If you are 62+ (or have a qualifying disability) and live in rent-regulated housing with income under the limit, you may freeze your rent. Apply through NYC Department of Finance Rent Freeze.
      • Source: NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE/DRIE)
    • Section 8 and public housing: Vouchers or public housing waitlists may open or close. Check your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) or, in NYC, NYCHA Section 8 and HPD Housing Connect for lotteries. Expect long waits.
      • Sources: HUD PHA Contacts; NYCHA Section 8; NYC Housing Connect
    • Senior housing (HUD Section 202): Subsidized apartments with on-site supports for older adults. Search properties using the HUD Resource Locator and ask to be added to waitlists.
      • Sources: HUD Section 202; HUD Resource Locator
  • Tenant rights and protections
    • Statewide rent laws and help with landlord issues are managed by NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR). Learn about rent regulation and how to file complaints.
      • Sources: HCR Rent Regulation; HCR Tenant Protection Unit
  • Property taxes for homeowners
    • Enhanced STAR and Senior Citizens Property Tax Exemptions can lower taxes for eligible homeowners.
      • Sources: NYS Tax — STAR; NYS Tax — Senior Citizens Exemption; NYC SCHE/DHE
  • Weatherization and home repairs
    • Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) improves energy efficiency (insulation, sealing, heating system repairs) at no cost to eligible households.
      • Source: NYS Homes and Community Renewal — Weatherization
    • Rural seniors: USDA Section 504 Home Repair Loans & Grants can fund critical repairs; grants available for very low-income homeowners 62+.
      • Sources: USDA Section 504 Home Repair; USDA Rural Development New York

Reality check:

  • Senior housing and vouchers have long waitlists. Apply to multiple properties, keep copies, and update your contact info.
  • If you receive a court notice, do not ignore it. Call legal services right away and bring all papers to court.

Section 3: Utilities, heat and cooling

  • Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
    • What it is: Helps with winter heating bills, emergency fuel/utility shutoffs, furnace repair/replacement (HERR), clean and tune, and seasonal cooling assistance.
    • How it works: Regular HEAP opens seasonally; Emergency HEAP opens later in the winter; Cooling Assistance opens during warm months when funded. Income limits and dates change each year.
    • Where to apply: County HEAP office (HRA in NYC), by mail, or online through myBenefits when available. Check current status and components.
    • Source: NYS OTDA — HEAP
  • Utility low‑income and arrears programs
    • If you receive HEAP, your utility may automatically enroll you in discounts through the Energy Affordability Program.
      • Source: NY Public Service Commission — Energy Affordability Program
    • Company programs:
      • Con Edison (downstate): payment plans, Payment Assistance Program, and arrears help; see Help Paying Your Bill.
        • Source: Con Edison
      • National Grid (gas/electric in many regions): assistance programs and arrears forgiveness for eligible customers.
        • Source: National Grid Payment Assistance (New York)
      • NYSEG and RG&E: Energy Assistance Program (EAP) discounts for eligible customers.
        • Source: NYSEG Energy Assistance Program
  • Water bills (NYC)
    • NYC Home Water Assistance Program gives a yearly credit on water/sewer bills for eligible low-income properties.
    • Source: NYC DEP — Home Water Assistance

Table: Energy and utility help

Program What it covers When it opens Where to apply Official source
Regular HEAP A portion of heating costs Seasonal (fall–winter) County HEAP/HRA https://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/
Emergency HEAP Fuel/utility emergencies Winter (varies) County HEAP/HRA https://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/
HERR Heating equipment repair/replace Seasonal County HEAP/HRA https://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/
Cooling Assistance AC/cooling costs/equipment Spring–summer (if funded) County HEAP/HRA https://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/
Energy Affordability (utility discounts) Monthly bill discounts Year‑round Your utility https://dps.ny.gov/energy-affordability-program

Reality check:

  • HEAP and cooling funds can run out. Apply early.
  • For shutoffs, call your utility’s customer service and ask for a medical or “life support” hold if applicable, and set a payment plan while your HEAP is pending.

Section 4: Food and nutrition

  • SNAP (Food Stamps)
    • What it is: Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries.
    • Seniors can deduct medical expenses to increase their benefit. Income and deductions change yearly.
    • Apply online, by mail, or in person. NYC residents can use ACCESS HRA; others use myBenefits.
    • Sources: NYS OTDA — SNAP; NYC ACCESS HRA — SNAP
  • Meals for older adults
    • Home‑delivered and group meals are available through local Offices for the Aging. These are funded by the Older Americans Act and NY State.
    • Find services through NY Connects or your county Office for the Aging; in NYC, see NYC Aging programs (Home-Delivered Meals).
    • Sources: NY Connects; NYSOFA; NYC Aging
  • Farmers’ market nutrition
    • Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides coupon booklets for fresh produce at participating markets.
    • FreshConnect Checks help stretch SNAP dollars at markets.
    • Sources: NYS Dept. of Health — FMNP; NYS Dept. of Agriculture & Markets — FreshConnect
  • Food pantries and community meals
    • Find local options via 211 or Feeding America’s food bank locator. In NYC, Food Bank For New York City lists pantries and meals.
    • Sources: 211 New York; Feeding America — Find Your Food Bank; Food Bank For NYC

Table: Food help overview

Program How it helps How to apply Official source
SNAP (EBT) Monthly grocery money Online/in person https://otda.ny.gov/programs/snap/
Home-delivered & congregate meals Daily hot meals County Office for the Aging https://www.nyconnects.ny.gov/
SFMNP Produce coupons Through local aging office https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/fmnp/
FreshConnect Bonus dollars at markets At participating markets https://agriculture.ny.gov/farming/freshconnect

Reality check:

  • SNAP interviews can be done by phone. If long hold times, ask for call-back or leave a message.
  • For home-delivered meals, there can be a waitlist. Ask about emergency meal boxes or pantry referrals while you wait.

Section 5: Health coverage, prescriptions, and medical transport

  • Medicaid for seniors and people with disabilities
    • What it is: Health coverage that can include long-term care and home care, depending on eligibility.
    • How to apply: People 65+ or on Medicare generally apply through their local DSS (not the state marketplace). Coverage rules and resource limits vary.
    • Sources: NYS Dept. of Health — Medicaid; How to Apply
  • Medicare Savings Program (MSP)
    • What it is: Helps pay Medicare Part B premiums (and sometimes cost sharing). New York expanded MSP income limits in 2023.
    • Where to apply: Local DSS/HRA or the NYS Dept. of Health. NYC provides guidance through ACCESS HRA and NYC Health.
    • Sources: NYS DOH — Medicare Savings Program; NYC Health — Medicare Savings Program
  • Prescription help
    • EPIC (Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage): New York’s program helps with Part D premiums and co-pays for 65+ with qualifying income. Can be used with Extra Help.
    • Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy): Federal program that lowers Part D costs; apply via Social Security.
    • Sources: NYS DOH — EPIC; SSA — Extra Help
  • Medicare counseling (free, unbiased)
    • HIICAP: New York’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program offers one-on-one help with Medicare choices, bills, and appeals.
    • Sources: NYSOFA — HIICAP
  • Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for Medicaid
    • What it is: Rides to covered medical appointments for Medicaid enrollees. Must schedule in advance.
    • How to use: Most counties schedule through Medical Answering Services (MAS). Check the NYS DOH NEMT page for details by county.
    • Sources: NYS DOH — Medicaid Transportation; MAS
  • Dental/vision/hearing
    • Coverage varies by plan. If costs are high, ask your AAA about local clinics, dental schools, or grant programs. Some counties have limited funds for dentures or eyeglasses.

Reality check:

  • Keep all Medicare and Medicaid letters. Bring them to appointments and when applying for other benefits.
  • Managed long-term care and home care have assessments that can take time. Ask about interim supports (e.g., home-delivered meals, personal emergency response systems).

Section 6: Phones, internet, and staying connected

  • Lifeline
    • What it is: Federal program that lowers phone or internet bills for low-income households.
    • How to apply: Through the National Verifier and your service provider.
    • Source: FCC — Lifeline
  • Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
    • Funding for ACP wound down in 2024. Check the FCC page for updates and any new relief programs.
    • Source: FCC — ACP
  • New York State broadband
    • The state’s ConnectALL initiative works to expand affordable broadband. Check for local projects and low‑cost options.
    • Source: NYS ConnectALL (Broadband Program Office)
  • Library tech help
    • Many libraries offer free Wi‑Fi, computer time, and basic tech help. Ask your local library system for current programs.

Reality check:

  • Providers may have their own low‑cost plans (e.g., Spectrum Internet Assist, Optimum Advantage Internet). Ask for “low-income plans” and whether Lifeline can be applied.

Section 7: Transportation and mobility

  • Reduced‑Fare MetroCard/OMNY (MTA)
    • Riders 65+ (or with qualifying disability) can get half‑price fares on subways, buses, and Staten Island Railway. Apply online or by mail.
    • Source: MTA — Reduced-Fare
  • Access‑A‑Ride (NYC paratransit)
    • Door‑to‑door shared rides for people who cannot use subways/buses due to disability or health. Application requires an assessment.
    • Source: MTA — Paratransit (Access-A-Ride)
  • Medicaid NEMT
    • See Section 5 (NEMT via MAS). For recurring appointments, ask about standing orders.
  • Outside NYC
    • Many counties offer senior vans, volunteer driver programs, and paratransit. Use NY Connects to find your local options.

Tips:

  • Ask your doctor’s office for help certifying medical need for paratransit or NEMT.
  • For rural areas, schedule rides early and confirm the day before.

Section 8: Safety, elder abuse, consumer protection, and scams

  • Adult Protective Services (APS)
    • Helps adults who may be abused, neglected, or unable to meet essential needs.
    • Contact your county APS for a confidential evaluation.
    • Source: NYS OCFS — APS and County Contacts
  • Domestic and sexual violence help
    • 24/7 hotline: 1-800-942-6906 (call), 844-997-2121 (text), or chat.
    • Source: NYS OPDV — Get Help
  • Consumer protection and elder fraud
    • Report scams to the NY State Attorney General’s Consumer Frauds Bureau.
    • If you suspect identity theft, use the FTC’s IdentityTheft.gov recovery plan.
    • Social Security scams: see the SSA Office of Inspector General.
    • Sources: NYS Attorney General — Consumer Frauds; FTC — Identity Theft; SSA OIG — Scams
  • Crime victim support
    • OVS funds victim assistance programs statewide and offers compensation.
    • Source: NYS OVS

Warnings:

  • Government agencies will not demand payment by gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
  • Do not give your Medicare or Social Security number to unsolicited callers. Hang up and call the official number listed on the agency’s website.

Section 9: Inclusive resources

LGBTQ+ older adults

  • SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders)
    • National and NYC programs: friendly senior centers, case management, counseling, and caregiver support.
    • SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: 1-877-360-5428.
    • Source: SAGE
  • NYC Affirming Senior Centers
    • LGBTQ+-affirming centers funded by NYC Aging. Call Aging Connect or visit NYC Aging for locations.
    • Source: NYC Aging
  • Anti-discrimination protections
    • New York State Human Rights Law prohibits discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
    • Source: NYS Division of Human Rights

Veteran seniors

  • New York State Division of Veterans’ Services (DVS)
    • Accredited benefits advisors help with VA health care, pensions, Aid & Attendance, and more.
    • Source: NYS DVS
  • VA Aid & Attendance and Housebound
    • Extra monthly payments for wartime veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily activities or are housebound.
    • Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — Aid & Attendance
  • NYC Department of Veterans’ Services
    • Housing, mental health referrals, benefits navigation for NYC veterans.
    • Source: NYC DVS

Tip: Bring your DD214 (discharge papers) to appointments. If you need a copy, ask DVS for help.

Tribal and Native American elders in New York

  • Title VI Native American Aging Programs (Older Americans Act)
    • Tribes receive funds for meals, transportation, caregiver support, and more. Contact your Tribal office or the Administration for Community Living.
    • Source: ACL — Title VI Programs
  • Indian Health Service (Nashville Area)
    • Coordinates care for eligible American Indian/Alaska Native persons in the region.
    • Source: IHS — Nashville Area
  • Tribal offices (examples)
    • Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe — Health and aging services information is available on the Tribe’s website; contact the Tribe for Office for the Aging services.
      • Source: Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe
    • Seneca Nation — Elder services information available via the Nation’s departments.
      • Source: Seneca Nation (public site)

Note: Programs vary by Nation. Call your Tribal government for Title VI senior services, meal sites, and transportation.

Rural seniors and caregivers

  • Home repairs and safety
    • USDA Section 504 grants/loans can fix roofs, heating, ramps, or remove hazards for very low-income homeowners 62+.
    • Sources: USDA Section 504; USDA RD New York
  • Transportation
    • Many rural counties use volunteer driver programs or limited-route vans. Book early. Ask your AAA or 211 for details.
  • Broadband and telehealth
    • Check the NY ConnectALL site and your library for internet access; ask your clinic about telehealth if travel is hard.

Section 10: Regional resources in New York

Start with your local Office for the Aging (OFA/AAA) and 211. Below are quick links by region plus a statewide directory.

  • Statewide directory: Find your county Office for the Aging — NYSOFA Local Offices

Table: Regional navigation for seniors

Region Key links
New York City NYC Aging; NYC HRA Emergency Assistance; NYC Rent Freeze; NYC 311
Long Island (Nassau, Suffolk) Nassau County Office for the Aging; Suffolk County Office for the Aging; 211 Long Island
Hudson Valley (Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, Westchester) Westchester County Department of Senior Programs & Services; Rockland County Office for the Aging; 211 Hudson Valley
Capital Region (Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, etc.) Albany County Department for Aging; 211 Capital Region; NY Connects
Central NY (Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga, Oswego) Onondaga County Office for Aging; 211 CNY; NY Connects
Finger Lakes (Monroe, Ontario, Wayne, etc.) Monroe County Office for the Aging; 211/LIFE LINE (Monroe); NY Connects
Southern Tier (Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Delaware, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga, Tompkins) Broome County Office for Aging; 211 Susquehanna River Region; NY Connects
Western NY (Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Allegany) Erie County Senior Services; 211 WNY; NY Connects
North Country (Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence, Warren, Washington) St. Lawrence County Office for the Aging; 211 Adirondack; NY Connects

Notes:

  • For counties not listed above, use the statewide NYSOFA Local Offices directory.
  • 211 websites vary by region; if one link doesn’t cover your county, use the statewide 211 search.

Section 11: Money basics — Social Security, SSI, and New York SSP

  • Social Security Retirement and Survivors
    • For benefit issues or replacement letters, create a my Social Security account or call your local SSA office.
    • Source: SSA — my Social Security
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
    • Monthly federal benefit for people with limited income/resources who are 65+ or have a disability.
    • Source: SSA — SSI
  • New York State Supplement Program (SSP)
    • New York adds a state supplement to SSI for many recipients; it is administered by OTDA (not SSA). If you get SSI, you may also get SSP automatically.
    • Source: NYS OTDA — State Supplement Program (SSP)
  • Emergency help for SSI recipients
    • See EAA in Section 1.

Tip: Keep your SSA award letter handy; many programs accept it as proof of income.

Section 12: Putting it together — practical steps

  1. Stabilize the emergency
  • If eviction/shutoff is looming, apply for HRA One‑Shot Deal (NYC) or ESNA/EAA (outside NYC). Ask for a receipt and case number.
  • Call your utility to set a payment plan while HEAP is pending.
  • If you have a court date, contact legal services immediately.
  1. Secure food and meds
  • Apply for SNAP and request a phone interview.
  • Ask your AAA about home-delivered meals. If waitlisted, request emergency groceries or pantry referrals.
  • For prescriptions, apply to EPIC and Extra Help to lower costs.
  1. Lower monthly costs
  • Apply for MSP to reduce Medicare costs.
  • Ask your utility about Energy Affordability discounts; if you receive HEAP, you may be auto-enrolled.
  • NYC renters: check Rent Freeze eligibility.
  1. Plan transportation
  • If on Medicaid, set up NEMT with MAS. For NYC disability-related travel needs, start the Access‑A‑Ride application.
  1. Prevent future crises
  • Consider Weatherization to cut energy bills.
  • Meet with HIICAP for Medicare plan check-up and with your AAA for benefits screening.
  • Watch out for scams. Use official websites and phone numbers linked in this guide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Where do I apply for HEAP in New York?

  • Start at the NYS OTDA HEAP page for dates and how to apply. In NYC, HEAP is through HRA; outside NYC, use your county HEAP office. Source: NYS OTDA — HEAP

Q2: HEAP is closed. Can I still get help with a shutoff?

  • Ask your utility for a payment plan and check the NY Public Service Commission’s Energy Affordability Program. Some charities may help through 211. Emergency HEAP opens seasonally if funded. Sources: DPS — Energy Affordability; 211 New York

Q3: I got a marshal’s/eviction notice in NYC. What now?

  • Apply for a One-Shot Deal and contact legal services right away. Bring the notice to court. Sources: NYC HRA — Emergency Assistance; NYC HRA — Legal Services for Tenants; Housing Court Answers

Q4: What is the NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE/DRIE)?

  • For eligible seniors (62+) or people with disabilities in rent-regulated homes, the program can freeze your rent at the current amount. Apply online with NYC Department of Finance. Source: NYC Rent Freeze

Q5: I’m 65+ on Medicare. Do I apply for Medicaid through the marketplace?

  • Most people 65+ or on Medicare apply through local DSS (not the NY State of Health marketplace). There are exceptions. Check the NYS DOH Medicaid page or call NY Connects. Source: NYS DOH — Medicaid

Q6: What is the Medicare Savings Program in New York?

  • MSP helps pay your Part B premium and may lower other costs. New York expanded income limits in 2023. Apply through DSS/HRA. Source: NYS DOH — MSP

Q7: How can I lower prescription costs in New York?

  • Apply for EPIC (state program) and Extra Help (federal). EPIC works with Part D plans to reduce premiums and copays. Sources: NYS DOH — EPIC; SSA — Extra Help

Q8: Who can help me choose a Medicare plan?

  • Call HIICAP for free, unbiased counseling. Source: NYSOFA — HIICAP

Q9: I need medical rides. What should I do?

  • If you have Medicaid, schedule rides through MAS. Otherwise, ask your AAA about senior vans or paratransit (Access-A-Ride in NYC). Sources: MAS; MTA — Paratransit; NY Connects

Q10: I’m an SSI recipient facing eviction outside NYC. Is there emergency help?

  • Ask your county DSS about Emergency Assistance to Adults (EAA). Source: NYS OTDA — Temporary Assistance (Emergency Assistance)

Q11: I’m a veteran and need help with rent or benefits. Who can guide me?

  • Contact the New York State Division of Veterans’ Services for accredited claims help; NYC veterans can also contact NYC DVS. Sources: NYS DVS; NYC DVS

Q12: I’m an LGBTQ+ senior. Are there dedicated services?

  • Yes. SAGE offers programs statewide and the SAGE Hotline at 1-877-360-5428. NYC has LGBTQ+-affirming senior centers through NYC Aging. Sources: SAGE; NYC Aging

Q13: I’m being financially exploited by a relative. Who do I call?

  • Contact APS in your county for an evaluation and safety planning. You can also speak with the NY Attorney General Consumer Frauds Bureau. Sources: NYS OCFS — APS; NYS AG — Consumer Frauds

Q14: Are there programs for Native American elders in New York?

  • Many Tribal governments run Title VI senior programs. Contact your Tribe or see ACL Title VI Programs. For health services, see IHS (Nashville Area). Sources: ACL — Title VI; IHS — Nashville Area

Q15: My Section 8 waitlist is closed. What else can I try?

  • Apply to HUD Section 202 senior buildings and local affordable housing lotteries (e.g., NYC Housing Connect), and ask about legal rent protections if you are in a regulated unit. Sources: HUD Resource Locator; NYC Housing Connect; HCR Rent Regulation

Resources and official links (quick list)

Helpful tables: quick comparisons and checklists

Table: Which program might fit your situation?

Your need Consider Where to start
Rent arrears (NYC) One‑Shot Deal; legal services HRA Emergency Assistance; HRA Legal Services
Rent arrears (outside NYC) ESNA; EAA (if on SSI) County DSS; OTDA Temporary Assistance
Shutoff notice HEAP Emergency; utility discount programs OTDA HEAP; DPS Energy Affordability
Heat system broken HEAP HERR OTDA HEAP
Food this week SNAP; home-delivered meals; pantries OTDA SNAP; NY Connects; 211
Lower Medicare costs MSP; EPIC; Extra Help NYS DOH MSP; EPIC; SSA Extra Help
Medical rides Medicaid NEMT; Access‑A‑Ride (NYC); AAA transport MAS; MTA; NY Connects
Safer home, lower bills Weatherization Assistance Program HCR Weatherization
Domestic or elder abuse APS; OPDV hotline OCFS APS; OPDV Get Help

Table: Common mistakes to avoid

Mistake What to do instead
Waiting until the court date to seek rent help Apply for emergency aid and legal help as soon as you get a notice
Not answering calls from “unknown numbers” Agencies often use blocked numbers; check voicemail daily
Sending incomplete applications Use the documents checklist; ask for a list of needed papers
Assuming you don’t qualify Rules change yearly; ask NY Connects or your AAA to screen you
Paying a “fee” to apply Official applications are free; avoid paid “consultants” unless you know they’re legitimate

Reality checks, warnings, and tips

  • Program availability changes. Cooling Assistance and some emergency funds can run out early.
  • Expect to re-certify (SNAP, Medicaid) each year or when requested. Mark deadlines on a calendar.
  • Keep a folder with copies of applications, receipts, and names of workers you spoke to.
  • If English is not your first language, you have a right to free interpretation with state and city agencies. Ask for it.
  • If you use a caregiver or relative as a helper, list them as an authorized representative so agencies can speak with them.

Disclaimer

Program rules, dates, and benefits change. Always confirm details with the official agency websites linked in this guide or by calling their hotlines. This guide is for general information and is not legal, medical, or financial advice.

About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

  • Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
  • Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
  • Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

  • Last Updated: August 2025
  • Sources Verified: August 2025
  • Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.

References (selected official sources cited above):

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