Grants for Seniors in New York City
Grants and Assistance for Seniors in New York City (2025 Guide)
Last updated: August 2025
This is a practical, plain‑language guide to free or low‑cost programs for older New Yorkers. It focuses on what you can get, who qualifies, and how to apply with official links.
Key Takeaways
- Start with NYC Aging and NY Connects for one‑on‑one, no‑cost help finding and applying for multiple benefits.
- NYC Aging Helpline: 212‑AGING‑NYC (212‑244‑6469) or 311; directory: NYC Aging — Services and Senior Centers
- NY Connects statewide helpline: 1‑800‑342‑9871; directory: NY Connects
- Big money savers for most NYC seniors:
Medicare Savings Program (pays Part B premium),
EPIC Prescription Program,
HEAP (energy bills),
SNAP (groceries),
NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE/DRIE),
Fair Fares NYC (half‑price MetroCard for low‑income New Yorkers). - Rent, utilities, or other emergencies: apply for HRA’s Emergency Assistance (“One‑Shot Deal”) via ACCESS HRA or visit an HRA Center.
- Programs change. Always confirm details on the official pages linked below before you apply.
If You Need Emergency Help
- Danger to life or safety: Call 911.
- Mental health support: Call or text 988 (988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).
- Food, shelter, local services: Call 211 or visit 211 New York.
- NYC emergency cash help: HRA Emergency Assistance (“One‑Shot Deal”).
- Rent arrears/housing crisis:
- NYC Tenant Helpline: 311 (ask for “Tenant Helpline”) or visit NYC Tenant Resource Portal
- Right to Counsel (eligible low‑income tenants in eviction court): HRA — Right to Counsel
- Utility shutoff protections and rights: NYS Public Service Commission — HEFPA (Home Energy Fair Practices Act).
- Adult abuse, neglect, or self‑neglect:
- NYC Adult Protective Services: call 311 or see HRA — Adult Protective Services
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 NYC Aging (212‑244‑6469) or NY Connects (1‑800‑342‑9871) for free help applying.
Quick Program Finder (NYC)
| Program | Who It’s For | What You Get | Where to Apply/Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| NYC Aging & NY Connects | All older adults & caregivers | Personalized benefits screening and referrals | NYC Aging — Services and Senior Centers • NY Connects |
| Medicare Savings Program (MSP) | Medicare enrollees with limited income | Pays your Medicare Part B premium; may lower other costs | NY State — MSP |
| EPIC Prescription Program | NY residents 65+ with Part D | Help with Part D premiums and co‑pays | NY State — EPIC |
| SNAP (Food Stamps) | Low/moderate income | Monthly grocery money on an EBT card; easier rules for seniors | ACCESS HRA — SNAP |
| HEAP (Energy Bills) | Low/moderate income | Help with heating/cooling; emergency help | OTDA — HEAP |
| NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE/DRIE) | NYC renters 62+ or disabled | Freezes rent if eligible (rent‑regulated units) | NYC Rent Freeze |
| Property Tax Relief (SCHE) | NYC homeowners 65+ | Reduces property taxes | NYC Finance — SCHE |
| Emergency Cash Help | NYC residents | One‑Shot Deal for rent arrears, utilities, more | HRA — Emergency Assistance |
| Transit Discounts | 65+ or low income | MTA Reduced‑Fare or Fair Fares | MTA Reduced‑Fare • Fair Fares NYC |
Reality check: Expect paperwork and possible interviews. If forms are hard, ask NYC Aging or a local senior center for help completing them.
Money and Income Supports
Social Security, SSI, and the NY State Supplement
- SSI provides monthly cash to older adults with very limited income and assets. Learn more and apply at Social Security — SSI.
- New York adds a State Supplement (SSP) to federal SSI. If you get SSI, you may automatically get SSP. See OTDA — State Supplement Program.
Tip: If you might qualify for SSI/SSP, get help from a legal services group or NY Connects. Back payments may be possible; ask when you apply. Official source: SSA.
NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE/DRIE)
- Freezes rent for eligible seniors (62+) and separately for adults with disabilities living in rent‑regulated housing.
- Apply and get details at NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE/DRIE).
Reality check: Income and rent rules apply; renewals are required. If the landlord won’t provide needed info, call 311 and ask for the Rent Freeze Helpline.
Property Tax Relief for Homeowners
- Senior Citizens Homeowners’ Exemption (SCHE) reduces property taxes for eligible NYC homeowners 65+. See NYC Department of Finance — SCHE.
- STAR/Enhanced STAR is school tax relief; Enhanced STAR is for 65+ who qualify. See NYS Tax — STAR.
Food Benefits (SNAP)
- SNAP provides monthly grocery money on an EBT card. NYC seniors can apply online, by phone, or in person. See ACCESS HRA — SNAP.
Reality check: Seniors often qualify under the Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP), with longer certification and fewer interviews. Official source: OTDA — SNAP.
Emergency Cash Help
- HRA’s One‑Shot Deal can help with rent arrears, utility shutoffs, and other emergencies. Apply via ACCESS HRA or at an HRA Center. Official source: NYC HRA.
Job Training and Part‑Time Work (55+)
- SCSEP offers paid, part‑time community service training for low‑income job seekers 55+. Learn more at U.S. DOL — SCSEP and NYC Aging — Senior Employment Services.
Reality check: Slots are limited; there may be a waitlist. Staff can 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, home care, nursing home | NY State — Medicaid |
| Medicare Savings Program (MSP) | Medicare enrollees with limited income | Pays Part B premium; may lower other costs | NY State — MSP |
| EPIC (Rx help) | 65+ with Part D | Helps with premiums and co‑pays | NY State — EPIC |
| Extra Help (LIS) | Medicare enrollees with limited income | Lowers Part D costs | Social Security — Extra Help |
| HIICAP (free Medicare counseling) | All Medicare beneficiaries | Unbiased help comparing plans and costs | NYSOFA — HIICAP |
| MLTC (Managed Long‑Term Care) | Seniors needing long‑term care at home | Coordinates home care/services | NYSDOH — MLTC |
| CDPAP | Medicaid recipients needing personal care | Choose and pay your own caregiver (family allowed with limits) | NYSDOH — CDPAP |
Reality check: MSP + EPIC + Extra Help can save thousands per year. Eligibility rules change; confirm on the official sites above. For unbiased advice, call HIICAP at 1‑800‑701‑0501 (NY State’s SHIP program).
Low‑Cost and Free Care in NYC
- NYC Care (uninsured NYC residents): Low/no‑cost primary and specialty care through NYC Health + Hospitals. See NYC Care.
- Health + Hospitals Options: Sliding‑fee care for uninsured/under‑insured. See NYC Health + Hospitals — Options.
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): Sliding‑scale primary and dental care. Find clinics via HRSA Health Center Finder.
- Dental: NYU College of Dentistry, Columbia College of Dental Medicine, Touro College of Dental Medicine, and Dental Lifeline Network — New York.
- Vision: SUNY College of Optometry — University Eye Center.
Tip: Dental/vision school clinics cost less but visits can be longer. Bring a list of medications and medical conditions.
Housing, Home Repairs, and Weatherization (NYC)
| Program | What It Covers | Who It Helps | Where to Apply/Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| NYC HomeFix (HPD) | Low‑interest/forgivable loans for home repairs | Income‑eligible NYC homeowners | NYC HPD — HomeFix |
| NYC Emergency Home Repair Program (EHRP) | Free emergency repairs (qualified hazards) | Low‑income NYC homeowners | NYC HPD — EHRP |
| Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | Insulation, air sealing, efficient heating/cooling | Low‑income homeowners & renters | HCR — Weatherization Assistance |
| EmPower New York (NYSERDA) | No‑cost energy efficiency upgrades; some health/safety fixes | Low‑ to moderate‑income households | NYSERDA — EmPower NY |
| HUD Section 202 | Supportive housing for older adults | Income‑eligible seniors | HUD — Section 202 |
| Affordable Housing Search | Find lotteries and units | Renters | NYC Housing Connect • HUD Resource Locator |
| Rent Help | Rental assistance for eligible households | NYC renters at risk of homelessness | HRA — CityFHEPS |
| Public Housing / Section 8 | NYCHA housing and vouchers (waitlists vary) | Low‑income renters | NYCHA — Apply |
Reality check: Many repair programs and housing vouchers have waitlists. Submit complete applications, keep copies, and update your contact info with the agency. For foreclosure prevention, get free help via the NY Attorney General — Homeowner Protection Program (HOPP).
Utilities: Heat, Cooling, Water, Phone, Internet
- HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program): Helps with heating/cooling costs; components include Regular, Emergency, Cooling Assistance, and Heating Equipment Repair & Replacement. See OTDA — HEAP.
- NYC Home Water Assistance Program: Annual bill credit for eligible low‑income homeowners. See NYC DEP — Home Water Assistance.
- Phone/Internet Discounts: Lifeline provides a monthly discount on phone or broadband. See FCC — Lifeline.
- ACP ended in 2024 due to lack of federal funding. See FCC — ACP for updates or successor options.
- Utility payment help and protections:
- Con Edison payment agreements and assistance: Con Edison — Managing Your Bill
- Shutoff rights and medical protections: NYS PSC — HEFPA
Tip: If you have a shutoff notice, call your utility and HEAP right away. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Older Adult Centers (Congregate Dining) | Free hot meals and activities | 60+ | NYC Aging — Find a Center |
| Home‑Delivered Meals | Hot/frozen meals; nutrition counseling | 60+ and homebound | NYC Aging — Meals at Home |
| SNAP (Food Stamps) | Monthly grocery money on EBT | Low/moderate income | ACCESS HRA — SNAP |
| CSFP (“Senior Food Box”) | Monthly box of pantry staples | 60+ with limited income | NYS DOH — CSFP |
| SFMNP (Farmers’ Market Checks) | Seasonal produce coupons | 60+ with limited income | NYS Ag & Markets — SFMNP |
| FreshConnect Checks | Bonus coupons when using SNAP at markets | SNAP shoppers | NYS Ag & Markets — FreshConnect |
Reality check: SNAP for older adults is easier than it used to be. If paperwork is hard, a senior center or NYC Aging can help you apply by phone. For food pantries, call 211 or search the Food Bank For New York City — Find Food.
Transportation
| Option | What It Offers | Who It Helps | Where to Apply/Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTA Reduced‑Fare MetroCard | Half fare on subways and buses | 65+ or Medicare | MTA — Reduced‑Fare |
| Access‑A‑Ride (Paratransit) | Door‑to‑door rides | People with disabilities who cannot use subways/buses | MTA — Access‑A‑Ride |
| Fair Fares NYC | 50% off transit fares | Eligible low‑income NYC residents | Fair Fares NYC |
| Medicaid NEMT | Rides to covered medical appointments | Medicaid enrollees | Medical Answering Services — NEMT |
Tip: Book medical rides as far in advance as possible. Have appointment details, your doctor’s NPI, and your Medicaid ID handy.
Caregiving, Day Services, and Protection
- Caregiver support (respite, training, counseling): Start with NYC Aging — Caregiver Services or call NY Connects (1‑800‑342‑9871).
- Social Adult Day Services: Supervised day programs with meals and activities. See NYC Aging — Social Adult Day.
- Adult Protective Services (APS): If someone is at risk due to abuse, neglect, or exploitation, contact HRA — APS via 311.
- Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Help with problems in nursing homes and adult care facilities. See NYSOFA — Long Term Care Ombudsman.
- Elder Fraud & Scams: Report to NYC DCWP — Report a Scam and the FTC — Report Fraud.
Reality check: If you feel overwhelmed, ask NYC Aging to coordinate services (meals, rides, home care) with one call.
Inclusive Support: Specific Communities
LGBTQ+ Older Adults
- SAGE runs LGBTQ+ friendly senior centers, case management, and support groups in NYC. See SAGE Centers in NYC.
- Many older adult centers funded by NYC Aging offer LGBTQ+‑affirming programming; ask NYC Aging for referrals.
Veterans 65+
- NYS Department of Veterans’ Services: Benefits counseling and help with claims. See NYS DVS.
- VA Pensions and Aid & Attendance can provide monthly, tax‑free payments to eligible wartime veterans and surviving spouses with limited income, especially those needing daily help. See VA — Pension with Aid & Attendance.
- For property tax exemptions for veterans, see NYS Tax — Veterans’ Exemptions.
Tip: Bring your DD‑214 and a list of medical expenses; they can affect eligibility.
Seniors with Disabilities
- Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) lets Medicaid recipients choose their caregiver (often a family member, with limits). See NYSDOH — CDPAP.
- Independent Living Centers offer peer‑led support. In NYC, see CIDNY — Center for Independence of the Disabled, NY.
- Paratransit: MTA Access‑A‑Ride. Ask your doctor for medical documentation early in the application.
Native/Tribal Seniors in NYC
- The Indian Health Service Nashville Area covers New York; see IHS — Nashville Area.
- For elder services and benefits questions, contact Bureau of Indian Affairs — Eastern Region and local Native community organizations such as the American Indian Community House.
Outer‑Borough and Limited‑Access Areas
- If travel is hard, ask NYC Aging about meal delivery, case management, and local transportation from your nearest older adult center: Find a Center.
- Use SNAP Online Purchasing to order groceries.
- Phone/broadband discounts via FCC — Lifeline can help with telehealth and online applications.
How to Apply (and Avoid Delays)
- Gather documents: Photo ID; proof of age; Social Security number; proof of NYC address; lease or mortgage; utility bills; income proof (Social Security award letter, pensions, bank statements); insurance cards (Medicare, Medicaid, Part D).
- Call first: Many offices can complete applications by phone or help you apply online (ACCESS HRA, MyBenefits, plan comparison by HIICAP).
- Keep a folder: Save copies, confirmation numbers, and names of staff you speak with.
- Ask about retroactive help: For Medicaid, SNAP, and EPIC, some past bills may be considered—ask when you apply.
- If denied: Read the notice, note the appeal deadline, and contact legal services or HIICAP for help.
- Accessibility: If you have a disability, language needs, or no internet access, ask for reasonable accommodations. Agencies must provide them.
Resources by Borough (Starting Points)
- All NYC: NYC Aging — Services and Senior Centers • Call 212‑AGING‑NYC (212‑244‑6469) or 311
- Citywide Benefits: ACCESS NYC (benefit screener) • ACCESS HRA (apply/manage cases)
- Rent & Housing: NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE/DRIE) • NYC Housing Connect • CityFHEPS • NYCHA — Apply
- Home Repairs: HPD — HomeFix • HPD — EHRP • HCR — Weatherization
- Health & Rx: NY State — Medicaid • MSP • EPIC • HIICAP • NYC Care
- Food: NYC Aging — Find a Center • Home‑Delivered Meals • ACCESS HRA — SNAP
- Utilities: OTDA — HEAP • NYC DEP — Home Water Assistance • NYS PSC — HEFPA
- Transportation: MTA — Reduced‑Fare • MTA — Access‑A‑Ride • Fair Fares NYC
- Protection & Legal: HRA — Adult Protective Services • Long‑Term Care Ombudsman • Tenant Resource Portal
If you can’t find your local site or need hands‑on help, call NYC Aging (212‑244‑6469) or NY Connects (1‑800‑342‑9871).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the fastest way to see what I qualify for?
Call NYC Aging at 212‑244‑6469 or NY Connects at 1‑800‑342‑9871. They can screen you for multiple benefits in one call and connect you to local help. You can also use ACCESS NYC to check eligibility online.
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.
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 Spenddown. Contact your local HRA Medicaid Office or see NYSDOH — Medicaid.
How can I lower my prescription costs?
Enroll in Medicare Part D, apply for Extra Help, and apply for EPIC. Together, these can greatly reduce drug costs.
I’m a renter 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. DRIE helps eligible adults with disabilities. Call 311 for the Rent Freeze Helpline.
I can’t afford my heat or I got a shutoff notice. What should I do?
Apply for HEAP right away. If you are out of fuel or have a shutoff notice, ask for Emergency HEAP. Learn your shutoff rights at the NYS Public Service Commission.
Is there help for water bills in NYC?
Yes. The NYC Home Water Assistance Program provides a bill credit for eligible low‑income homeowners.
How do I get transportation to medical appointments?
If you have Medicaid, schedule rides through Medical Answering Services. If you cannot use subways/buses due to disability, apply for Access‑A‑Ride.
Where can I find free or low‑cost dental care?
Try dental schools and clinics: NYU College of Dentistry, Columbia Dental Medicine, Touro Dental, and Dental Lifeline Network — NY.
I own my home and need repairs. Are there grants?
Yes. NYC offers HPD HomeFix and EHRP. The state Weatherization program is also available: HCR — WAP.
Are there free meals near me?
Yes. Many older adult centers offer free meals, and home‑delivered meals are available if you are homebound. Start at NYC Aging — Food & Meals or call NYC Aging.
What if I suspect elder abuse or financial exploitation?
Contact HRA Adult Protective Services via 311. In facilities, contact the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman.
Can a family member be paid to care for me?
Often yes, through CDPAP if you have Medicaid and qualify for personal care. Ask your doctor and NY Connects for help starting the process.
Important Program Links (Official Sources)
- NYC Aging — Services and Senior Centers
- NY Connects — Directory & Helpline (1‑800‑342‑9871)
- ACCESS NYC — Benefit Screener
- ACCESS HRA — Apply and Manage Benefits
- Social Security — SSI and Extra Help (LIS)
- OTDA — SNAP, HEAP
- NYS Department of Health — Medicaid, MSP, EPIC
- NYSOFA — HIICAP, Long‑Term Care Ombudsman
- NYC DOF — NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE/DRIE), SCHE Property Tax Exemption
- NYC HPD — HomeFix, Emergency Home Repair Program
- NYC DEP — Home Water Assistance Program
- NYS Tax — STAR and Veterans’ Exemptions
- NY Attorney General — Homeowner Protection Program (HOPP)
- MTA — Reduced‑Fare MetroCard, Access‑A‑Ride
- HRSA — Find a Health Center
- NYC Health + Hospitals — NYC Care and Options
- Dental Lifeline Network — New York
- NYS Department of Health — CSFP
- NYS Agriculture & Markets — SFMNP, FreshConnect
- 211 New York — Find Local Help
- NYC HRA — Adult Protective Services, CityFHEPS, Emergency Assistance, Right to Counsel
- NYS Department of Veterans’ Services — Benefits Help
- VA — Pension with Aid & Attendance
- SAGE USA — SAGE Centers NYC
- NYSED — Independent Living Centers
- FCC — Lifeline
- USDA — SNAP Online Purchasing
- IHS — Nashville Area (covers NY)
- BIA — Eastern Region
Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips
- Do not pay anyone who promises to “guarantee” benefits. Free help is available from NYC Aging, NY Connects, HIICAP, and legal services.
- Expect waitlists for housing vouchers and repair programs. Apply early, submit complete paperwork, and keep copies.
- For any documents you mail, use certified mail or get a date‑stamped copy if you drop it off in person.
- If English isn’t your first language or you need disability accommodations, ask. Agencies must provide interpretation and reasonable accommodations.
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.