New York Senior Assistance Programs, Benefits, and Grants (2025)

Key Senior Statistics in New York (65 and over)
Senior Population: 3,635,501 (18.6%) Senior Population: 3,635,501 (18.6%)
Male: 44.2% Male: 44.2%
Female: 55.8% Female: 55.8%
Median Age: 73.5 Median Age: 73.5
Disability: 32.4% Disability: 32.4%
With Social Security Income: 85.5% With Social Security Income: 85.5%
With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 17.8% With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 17.8%
Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 14.3% Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 14.3%
Data Source: Data Source:
Data is taken from American Community Survey 2023. Please check our detailed page about Senior Statistics of New York for more data and information.

Last updated: August 2025

Key Takeaways

  • 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.

If You Need Emergency Help

A Quick Snapshot of Older New Yorkers

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

Item New York (65+)
Share of population ~18% (U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2023)
Living with a disability Common among older adults; needs vary by county (ACS 2023)
On Social Security Most older New Yorkers receive Social Security income
Below poverty line A meaningful share of seniors live on limited income

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.

Program Who It’s For What You Get Where to Apply/Info
NY Connects (NYSOFA) All older adults & caregivers statewide Personalized benefits navigation and referrals NYSOFA NY Connects directory or call 1‑800‑342‑9871
Medicare Savings Program (MSP) Medicare enrollees with limited income Pays your Medicare Part B premium; may reduce other costs NYS Department of Health – MSP
EPIC Prescription Program NY residents 65+ with Medicare Part D Help with Part D premiums and co‑pays NYS Department of Health – EPIC
HEAP (energy bills) Low/moderate income households Help with heating/cooling bills; emergency help; equipment repair OTDA – Home Energy Assistance Program
SNAP (food) Low/moderate income households Monthly food benefits on an EBT card; simplified rules for seniors OTDA – SNAP or apply via MyBenefits
Congregate & Home‑Delivered Meals 60+ statewide Free meals at senior sites or delivered; nutrition counseling NYSOFA – Food & Meals
Property Tax Relief (SCHE/STAR/467) Homeowners 65+ Reduced or frozen property taxes (varies by locality) NYC Dept. of Finance – SCHE; NYS Tax – STAR; NYS Senior Citizens’ Exemption
NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE/DRIE) NYC renters 62+ (or disabled adults) Freezes rent if eligible NYC Rent Freeze Program (SCRIE/DRIE)
Home Repairs (RESTORE, WAP, Section 504) 60+ homeowners, low‑income Health/safety repairs, accessibility, weatherization HCR – RESTORE; HCR – Weatherization; USDA Section 504 (NY)
Transportation Discounts 65+ public transit; paratransit for disabilities Reduced fares; door‑to‑door rides if eligible MTA Reduced‑Fare; MTA Access‑A‑Ride

Financial Help

Social Security and SSI (plus NY State Supplement)

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

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

Jobs and Skills

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

Program Who It’s For What It Helps With Where to Apply/Info
Medicaid for Older Adults Low‑income seniors Doctor/hospital bills, long‑term care NYS Department of Health – Medicaid
Medicare Savings Program (MSP) Medicare enrollees with limited income Pays Part B premium; may lower other costs NYS Department of Health – MSP
EPIC (Rx help) 65+ with Medicare Part D Helps with premiums and co‑pays NYS DOH – EPIC
Extra Help (LIS) Medicare enrollees with limited income Lowers Part D costs Social Security – Extra Help
HIICAP (free Medicare counseling) All Medicare beneficiaries Neutral advice on plans and costs NYSOFA – HIICAP
Managed Long‑Term Care (MLTC) Seniors needing help at home Coordinates home care and services NYS DOH – MLTC Guide
CDPAP Medicaid recipients needing personal care Choose and pay your own caregiver (can be a family member, with limits) NYS DOH – CDPAP

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:

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:

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

Housing, Home Repairs, and Weatherization

Program What It Covers Who It Helps Where to Apply/Info
RESTORE (Residential Emergency Services to Offer Repairs to the Elderly) Emergency repairs to remove health/safety hazards Homeowners 60+ (income limits apply) NYS Homes and Community Renewal – RESTORE
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) Insulation, air sealing, heating/cooling efficiency Low‑income homeowners and renters HCR – Weatherization Assistance Program
USDA Section 504 Home Repair (NY) Grants (62+) and low‑interest loans for essential repairs Rural low‑income homeowners USDA Rural Development – Section 504 NY
EmPower New York (NYSERDA) No‑cost energy efficiency upgrades, some health/safety fixes Low‑ to moderate‑income households NYSERDA – EmPower New York
NYC HomeFix (HPD) Low‑interest/forgivable loans for repairs (NYC) Income‑eligible homeowners NYC HPD – HomeFix
NYC Emergency Home Repair Program (EHRP) Free emergency repairs (qualified hazards) Low‑income NYC homeowners NYC HPD – EHRP
HUD Section 202 Supportive housing for older adults Income‑eligible seniors HUD – Section 202 program
HUD Subsidized Apartment Search Find affordable units & waitlists Renters HUD Resource Locator

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:

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.

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:
  • 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.

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

Program What It Provides Who It Helps Where to Apply/Info
Congregate Dining Free hot meals and social activities 60+ NYSOFA – Community Dining
Home‑Delivered Meals Hot/frozen meals delivered weekdays; nutrition counseling 60+ and homebound NYSOFA – Home‑Delivered Meals
SNAP (Food Stamps) Monthly grocery money on EBT card Low/moderate income OTDA – SNAP or apply via MyBenefits
Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) Seasonal coupons for produce at farmers’ markets 60+ with limited income NYS Agriculture & Markets – SFMNP
Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) Monthly box of pantry staples 60+ with limited income NYS Department of Health – CSFP
FreshConnect Checks Bonus coupons for SNAP use at markets SNAP shoppers NYS Agriculture & Markets – FreshConnect

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

Option What It Offers Who It Helps Where to Apply/Info
MTA Reduced‑Fare MetroCard Half fare on NYC subways and buses 65+ or Medicare MTA Reduced‑Fare Program
Access‑A‑Ride (NYC) Door‑to‑door paratransit People with disabilities who can’t use subways/buses MTA Access‑A‑Ride
County Senior Transportation Rides to medical visits, grocery, senior centers 60+ (varies by county) Find your Office for the Aging via NYSOFA Locations
Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Rides to covered medical appointments Medicaid enrollees Medical Answering Services (NEMT)

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

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

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.

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)

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?
  12. I own my home and need repairs. Are there grants?

Important Program Links (official sources)

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.
  • 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.

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.

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