New York Senior Assistance Programs, Benefits, and Grants (2026)

Key Senior Statistics in New York (65 and over)

Senior Population: 3,635,501 (18.6%)

Male: 44.2%

Female: 55.8%

Median Age: 73.5

Disability: 32.4%

With Social Security Income: 85.5%

With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 17.8%

Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 14.3%

Data Source:

Data is taken from American Community Survey 2023.

Last updated: December 12, 2025

• Start with NY Connects for local, one-on-one help finding and applying for benefits anywhere in New York State: call 1‑800‑342‑9871 or visit the NYSOFA NY Connects directory.
• The biggest “money savers” for most seniors are: Medicare Savings Program (pays Medicare Part B for many), EPIC (state prescription help), HEAP (energy bills), SNAP (groceries), and NYC’s Rent Freeze (SCRIE) or property tax exemptions (SCHE/STAR).
• Programs change. Always double‑check the official program pages linked below before you apply.
• If you feel stuck, ask your county Office for the Aging or NYC Aging to screen you for multiple programs in one visit or phone call.

For stacking programs to reach $2,000+ monthly, see our senior benefits in 2025 guide.

If You Need Emergency Help

• Danger to life or safety: Call 911.
• Mental health or emotional distress: Call or text 988 (988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).
• Food, shelter, or urgent local services: Call 211 or visit 211 New York.
• Adult abuse, neglect, or self‑neglect: Contact Adult Protective Services via the New York State Office of Children and Family Services.
• Emergency help with rent, utilities, or other needs:
  • NYC residents: HRA Emergency Assistance (“One‑Shot Deal”).
  • Outside NYC: OTDA Emergency Assistance Programs (EAA/EAF/EAHP).
• Utility shutoff protections and rights: New York State Public Service Commission (Home Energy Fair Practices Act).

If you need help now—shelter, utilities, food, or urgent medical—start here: emergency assistance for seniors in New York.

A Quick Snapshot of Older New Yorkers

These numbers help explain why many programs exist and why eligibility rules may feel strict.

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2023 (use the Census data tool for the latest figures).

Reality check: Benefit amounts and eligibility can vary by county and city. If one door is closed, another may still be open—ask local aging offices to check multiple programs at once.

How to Use This Guide

• Skim the tables to find the benefit you need.
• Click the descriptive links to apply or learn more.
• If the process looks overwhelming, call NY Connects (1‑800‑342‑9871) or your county Office for the Aging for free help applying.

Quick Program Finder (start here)

Use this as a map; detailed sections follow.

Financial Help

Social Security and SSI (plus NY State Supplement)

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monthly cash to older adults with very limited income and assets. Learn more at Social Security – SSI.
• New York also adds a State Supplement Program (SSP) to federal SSI. If you get SSI, you may automatically get SSP. See OTDA – State Supplement Program.

Tip: If you think you might qualify for SSI/SSP, ask a local legal services group or NY Connects to help with the application and to check if back payments are possible.

Property Tax Relief for Homeowners

• Senior Citizens Homeowners’ Exemption (SCHE) – NYC: Reduces property taxes for eligible homeowners 65+. See NYC Department of Finance – SCHE.
• Senior Citizens’ Exemption (RPTL 467) – Outside NYC: Local option that can reduce property taxes for 65+. See NYS Department of Taxation and Finance – Senior Citizens’ Exemption.
• STAR & Enhanced STAR: School tax relief for homeowners (Enhanced STAR is for 65+ who qualify). See NYS Tax – STAR.

If you file taxes, check whether you qualify for the Credit for the Elderly or Disabled.

Reality check: Income limits and paperwork vary by locality, and you usually must re‑apply or “renew” periodically. Call your local assessor’s office or the NYC Department of Finance for help.

Renters in NYC: Rent Freeze (SCRIE/DRIE)

• Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE): Freezes rent for eligible NYC tenants 62+ living in rent‑regulated apartments. See NYC Rent Freeze Program.
• Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE): Similar protection for eligible adults with disabilities.

Tip: If your landlord doesn’t provide needed forms, contact 311 and ask for the Rent Freeze Helpline.

Emergency Cash Assistance

• NYC “One‑Shot Deal” (Emergency Assistance): Help with rent arrears, utilities, and other emergencies. See NYC HRA – Emergency Assistance.
• Outside NYC: Emergency Assistance programs (EAA/EAF/EAHP) via local DSS. See OTDA – Emergency Assistance.

Jobs and Skills

• Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP): Paid, part‑time training jobs for low‑income job seekers 55+. Learn more at U.S. Department of Labor – SCSEP and NYC Aging – Senior Employment Services.
• Digital skills & library programs: Many libraries and senior centers offer free basic computer and smartphone classes. Ask your local Office for the Aging or NYC Aging.

Reality check: SCSEP slots are limited and often have waitlists. Apply anyway; staff can often refer you to other openings.

Health Coverage and Prescription Savings

Reality check: MSP and EPIC together can save thousands per year. EPIC works with your Part D plan and has its own income rules. Check the current rules on the EPIC site or call the EPIC Helpline to confirm.

Helpful contacts:

• EPIC Helpline: 1-800-332-3742 (TTY 1-800-290-9138) – see NYS DOH – EPIC
• Medicare counseling (HIICAP): 1‑800‑701‑0501 (varies by region; see NYSOFA – HIICAP)

Low‑Cost and Free Clinics, Dental, and Vision

• Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): Sliding‑scale primary and dental care. Find a location via the HRSA Health Center Finder.
• Institute for Family Health (NYC): Free clinics for uninsured patients (appointments required). See IFH Free Clinics.
• Capital City Rescue Mission (Albany): Free medical clinic for low‑income and homeless individuals. See Capital City Rescue Mission Clinic.

Dental care options:

• NYU College of Dentistry – Reduced‑cost care.
• Columbia University College of Dental Medicine – Patient care.
• Touro College of Dental Medicine – Patient care clinic.
• Dental Lifeline Network – Donated Dental Services (New York) for people who are elderly or have disabilities and cannot afford care.

For low-cost clinics, donated care, and emergency options, check our guide to dental grants in New York.

You can also use nationwide programs for free and low-cost dental care for seniors, including DDS, clinics, and dental schools.

Tip: Dental schools offer lower-cost care by supervised students; appointments can take longer but save money.

Housing, Home Repairs, and Weatherization

For rent help, subsidized housing, emergency options, and local contacts, see our guide to housing assistance for seniors in New York.

Rent help and tenant protections:

• NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE/DRIE): freezes rent for eligible seniors (and separately for adults with disabilities). See NYC Rent Freeze Program.
• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher: Managed by local Public Housing Agencies; waitlists open/close. Check your local PHA or HUD – New York State.
• CityFHEPS (NYC): Rental assistance for eligible NYC households at risk of homelessness. See NYC HRA – CityFHEPS.

Foreclosure prevention:

• Homeowner Protection Program (HOPP): Free, trusted help for homeowners facing mortgage trouble. See NY Attorney General – HOPP.

Reality check: Repair grants and vouchers often have waitlists. Submit complete applications and keep copies. Ask your Office for the Aging to help you prepare documentation upfront to avoid delays.

If you own your home and need safety fixes or accessibility upgrades, start with these home repair grants for seniors.

Not sure about eligibility, inspections, or timelines? Our home repair grants FAQs walk through common scenarios.

Utilities: Heat, Cooling, Water, Phone, Internet

• HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program): Helps with heating and cooling costs. Components may include Regular, Emergency, Cooling Assistance, Heating Equipment Repair & Replacement, and Clean & Tune. See OTDA – HEAP for current benefit amounts and dates. Note: 2024-25 Regular and Emergency HEAP closed April 7, 2025. Clean & Tune and HERR benefits closed May 9, 2025. Check for 2025-26 season dates.
• Water bills:
  • NYC Home Water Assistance Program: Annual bill credit for eligible low‑income homeowners. See NYC DEP – Home Water Assistance Program.
  • LIHWAP (Low‑Income Household Water Assistance) was a temporary federal program; check OTDA – Water Assistance for current status and any new funding.
• Phone/Internet:
  • Lifeline: Monthly discount on phone or broadband. See FCC – Lifeline.
  • Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended due to lack of federal funding in 2024; see FCC – ACP for updates or successor options.

Consumer rights:

• Shutoff protections and medical emergencies: Learn your rights under the Home Energy Fair Practices Act (HEFPA) at the NY Public Service Commission.

To reduce bills and prevent shutoffs, explore energy assistance and efficiency grants for seniors, including HEAP and weatherization.

Tip: If you have a shutoff notice, call HEAP and your utility immediately. Ask about a deferred payment agreement and any company hardship funds.

Food and Nutrition

For SNAP, senior food boxes, farmers’ market coupons, and home-delivered meals, see food programs for seniors.

Reality check: SNAP for older adults is easier than it used to be (longer certification periods, fewer interviews under ESAP). If paperwork is hard, ask your Office for the Aging or a community group to help you apply by phone.

Transportation

For paratransit, non-emergency medical rides, and fare discounts, start with transportation support for seniors.

Tip: Book medical rides as far in advance as possible. Keep your appointment details, doctor’s NPI, and Medicaid ID handy when you call.

Caregiving, Day Services, and Protection

• Caregiver support: New York funds local caregiver programs offering respite, training, and counseling. Start with NYSOFA – Caregiver Resources or call NY Connects at 1‑800‑342‑9871.
• Social Adult Day Services: Supervised day programs with meals and activities. See NYSOFA – Social Adult Day Services and NYC Aging – Social Adult Day programs.
• Adult Protective Services (APS): If you or someone you know is at risk due to abuse, neglect, or exploitation, contact OCFS – Adult Protective Services.
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Help resolve problems in nursing homes and adult care facilities. See NYSOFA – Long Term Care Ombudsman Program.

Find classes, meals, and social activities near you with our directory of senior centers in New York.

Inclusive Support: Specific Communities

LGBTQ+ Older Adults

• SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBTQ+ Elders) provides welcoming senior centers, case management, and support groups. See SAGE USA and SAGE Centers in NYC.
• Many Area Agencies on Aging can connect you to LGBTQ+‑friendly providers; ask NY Connects.

Veterans 65+

• NYS Department of Veterans’ Services: Benefits counseling, help with claims, and referrals for financial assistance. See NYS DVS.
• VA Pensions and Aid & Attendance: Monthly, tax‑free payments for eligible wartime veterans and surviving spouses with limited income, especially those needing daily help. See VA – Pension with Aid & Attendance.
• Property tax exemptions for veterans may apply; ask your local assessor or see NYS Tax – Veterans’ Exemptions.

Tip: Bring your DD‑214 and a list of medical expenses; those costs can affect eligibility for pension benefits.

Seniors with Disabilities

• Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP): Medicaid program that lets you choose (and in many cases, hire) your caregiver. See NYS DOH – CDPAP.
• Independent Living Centers (ILCs): Peer‑led support on benefits, accessibility, and advocacy. See NYSED – Independent Living Centers.
• Paratransit and home modifications: Ask your Office for the Aging or NY Connects about local ramps, grab‑bar programs, and equipment loans.

Tribal and Native Seniors

• Health services may be available through the Indian Health Service (IHS) Nashville Area (covers NY) and tribal clinics; start at IHS Nashville Area.
• For housing, elder services, and benefits questions, contact the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Eastern Region or your tribal government’s elder program.

Rural Seniors and Limited Access Areas

• NY Connects can coordinate multiple services (meals, rides, home care) with one call: 1‑800‑342‑9871.
• Consider SNAP Online Purchasing to reduce travel for groceries; see USDA – SNAP Online Purchasing.
• Phone/internet discounts via Lifeline can help with telehealth and benefit applications; see FCC – Lifeline.
• Ask your local Office for the Aging about volunteer driver programs and mobile food pantries.

How to Apply (and Avoid Delays)

1. Gather documents:
   • Photo ID; proof of age; Social Security number.
   • Proof of NY address; lease or mortgage; utility bills.
   • Proof of income: Social Security award letter, pensions, bank statements.
   • Insurance cards (Medicare, Medicaid, Part D).
2. Call first:
   • Many offices can complete applications by phone or help you apply online.
3. Keep a folder:
   • Save application receipts, copies, and names of staff you speak with.
4. Ask for retroactive help:
   • For some programs (Medicaid, SNAP, EPIC), past bills may be considered—ask when you apply.
5. If denied:
   • Read the notice, note the appeal deadline, and contact legal services or HIICAP for help.

For free benefits counseling and help applying for SNAP, Medicaid, or home care, contact your local Area Agencies on Aging in New York.

If you’re relocating or helping family in another state, use our Area Agencies on Aging directory to find local help anywhere.

Tip: Let staff know if you have a disability, language needs, or no internet access. Agencies must provide reasonable accommodations.

Resources by Region (selected starting points)

• Statewide
  • NYSOFA – Find Your Local Office for the Aging
  • NY Connects Helpline: 1‑800‑342‑9871
  • 211 New York – Local food, housing, utility help
• New York City
  • NYC Aging – Services and Senior Centers
  • NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE/DRIE)
  • HRA Emergency Assistance and CityFHEPS
  • MTA Reduced‑Fare and Access‑A‑Ride
  • NYC DEP – Home Water Assistance Program

In NYC, our New York City senior assistance page lists local offices, phone numbers, and programs.

• Long Island (Nassau & Suffolk)
  • Nassau County Office for the Aging
  • Suffolk County Office for the Aging
  • HCR – Weatherization Assistance (local providers)
• Hudson Valley & Capital Region
  • County Offices for the Aging via NYSOFA Locations
  • Capital City Rescue Mission Clinic (Albany)
• Central NY, Mohawk Valley, Southern Tier, Finger Lakes, Western NY, North Country
  • County Offices for the Aging via NYSOFA Locations
  • Food Bank Association of NYS – find your regional food bank
  • HCR – Weatherization Assistance (local providers)
  • Medicaid Transportation (Medical Answering Services)

If you can’t find your county link above, use NYSOFA’s location search.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the fastest way to see what I qualify for?
   • Call NY Connects at 1‑800‑342‑9871. They can screen you for multiple benefits in one call and connect you to local help.
2. Can I get help paying my Medicare Part B premium?
   • Yes. The Medicare Savings Program may pay your Part B premium (and more) if your income is within limits. See NYS DOH – MSP.
3. I have Medicare. Can I still get Medicaid?
   • Possibly. If your income and assets are low enough, you may qualify for full Medicaid or a Medicaid Spenddown. Contact your local DSS/HRA or HIICAP.
4. How can I lower my prescription costs?
   • Enroll in Medicare Part D, apply for Extra Help through Social Security, and apply for EPIC (New York’s state pharmacy program for 65+). Together, these can greatly reduce drug costs.
5. I can’t afford my heat this winter. What should I do?
   • Apply for HEAP as soon as applications open each season. If you have a shutoff notice or are out of fuel, ask for Emergency HEAP. See OTDA – HEAP.
6. Is there still help for water bills?
   • NYC has a Home Water Assistance Program with bill credits for eligible low‑income homeowners. The federal LIHWAP program was time‑limited; check OTDA – Water Assistance for current status.
7. I rent in NYC and my landlord just raised the rent. Can I get a rent freeze?
   • If you are 62+ and meet other rules, apply for SCRIE (part of the NYC Rent Freeze Program). DRIE helps eligible adults with disabilities.
8. Are there free meals near me?
   • Yes. Many senior centers offer free congregate meals, and home‑delivered meals are available for homebound older adults. See NYSOFA – Food & Meals or call NY Connects.
9. How do I get transportation to medical appointments?
   • If you have Medicaid, use Medical Answering Services (NEMT). Otherwise, ask your county Office for the Aging about senior transportation or (in NYC) apply for Access‑A‑Ride if you qualify.
10. What if I suspect elder abuse or financial exploitation?
    • Contact Adult Protective Services via OCFS. In facilities, contact the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman.
11. Where can I get free help comparing Medicare plans?
    • Call HIICAP (New York’s SHIP program). They provide unbiased counseling. See NYSOFA – HIICAP.
12. I own my home and need repairs. Are there grants?
    • Yes. RESTORE (for 60+), Weatherization, USDA Section 504 (62+ grants in rural areas), and local city/county programs exist. See HCR – RESTORE, HCR – WAP, and USDA Section 504 (NY). In NYC, also see HPD HomeFix and EHRP.

Important Program Links (official sources)

• New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA)
• NY Connects directory and helpline (1‑800‑342‑9871)
• Social Security – SSI and Extra Help (LIS)
• OTDA – SNAP and MyBenefits (apply online)
• OTDA – HEAP (energy) and Water Assistance (status updates)
• NYS Department of Health – Medicaid
• NYS Department of Health – Medicare Savings Program
• NYS Department of Health – EPIC (Updated 2025: Part D premium assistance up to $72.34/month, deductible reduction ~$868 annually)
• NYSOFA – HIICAP (Medicare counseling)
• NYS DOH – MLTC Guide and CDPAP
• HCR – RESTORE and Weatherization Assistance Program
• USDA Rural Development – Section 504 Home Repair (NY)
• NYSERDA – EmPower New York
• NYC HPD – HomeFix and Emergency Home Repair Program
• NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE/DRIE)
• NYC DEP – Home Water Assistance Program
• NYS Tax – STAR and Senior Citizens’ Exemption
• NY Attorney General – Homeowner Protection Program (HOPP)
• MTA – Reduced‑Fare MetroCard and Access‑A‑Ride
• HRSA – Find a Health Center
• Institute for Family Health – Free Clinics
• Capital City Rescue Mission – Health Clinic
• Dental Lifeline Network – New York
• NYS Department of Health – CSFP
• NYS Agriculture & Markets – SFMNP and FreshConnect
• 211 New York
• OCFS – Adult Protective Services
• NYSOFA – Long Term Care Ombudsman
• NYS Department of Veterans’ Services
• VA – Pension with Aid & Attendance
• SAGE USA and SAGE Centers (NYC)
• NYSED – Independent Living Centers
• FCC – Lifeline
• USDA – SNAP Online Purchasing

Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips

• Don’t pay anyone who promises to “guarantee” benefits. Free help is available from NY Connects, Offices for the Aging, HIICAP, and legal services.
• Expect waitlists for housing vouchers and some repair grants; apply early and keep your contact information updated with the agency. While you wait on approvals, these charities that help seniors may offer one-time rent, utility, or food assistance.
• For any mailing you send, use certified mail or get a date‑stamped copy if you drop it off in person.
• If English is not your first language or you need disability accommodations, ask. Agencies must provide interpretation and reasonable accommodations.

Tables Summary

For quick reference, we included five tables:

1. Quick Program Finder
2. Health Coverage & Prescription Savings
3. Housing & Home Repairs
4. Food & Nutrition
5. Transportation

Use these to jump directly to the programs you need.

Browse all categories—housing, healthcare, utilities, food, and more—on the Grants for Seniors home page.

Disclaimer

Program details, eligibility, and benefit amounts can change at any time. Always confirm the latest information on the official websites linked in this guide or by calling the relevant agency. This guide is informational and does not provide legal, tax, or medical 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.