Housing Assistance for Seniors in New York

Last updated: August 2025

If You Need Emergency Help (Start Here)

  • If you are in immediate danger or facing unsafe conditions, call 911.
  • If you’re at risk of eviction or homelessness:
  • If you received eviction court papers, seek free legal help immediately:
    • NYC: Call 311 and ask for the “Tenant Helpline,” or visit Right to Counsel in Housing Court (NYC).
    • Statewide legal aid providers are listed in the section “Free Legal Help for Evictions and Foreclosure.”

Key Takeaways

  • New York has strong but complex housing support for older adults: rent help, rent freezes, home repairs, utility assistance, and legal aid.
  • In NYC, the Rent Freeze Program (SCRIE) can freeze rent for eligible seniors in rent-regulated apartments; apply via NYC Department of Finance Rent Freeze.
  • Most Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) waitlists are closed, but senior housing lotteries and subsidized buildings open throughout the year. Check NYC Housing Connect and statewide listings via HCR: Find Affordable Housing.
  • Home repair and accessibility programs include RESTORE and Access to Home (state), Weatherization Assistance (federal/state), and USDA Rural Repair Grants for rural seniors. Links and details are below.
  • Utility help runs through HEAP and low-income discount programs offered by your utility company (Con Edison, National Grid, NYSEG, PSEG Long Island, and others).
  • Watch for closed or limited programs: New York’s pandemic Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) is generally closed to new applications; always check current status.
  • Always verify current income limits and application forms at official agency websites. Program rules can change.

How Housing Help Works in New York

Multiple agencies administer programs. Knowing who does what will save you time:

  • Federal (HUD): Section 8 vouchers, public housing, Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly, reverse mortgages (HECM). Start with HUD in New York and the HUD Resource Locator.
  • New York State:
    • Homes and Community Renewal (HCR): affordable housing development, Mitchell-Lama, Access to Home, RESTORE, Weatherization. See NYS HCR.
    • Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA): homelessness prevention, HEAP, supportive housing (NYSSHP). See NYS OTDA.
    • Office for the Aging (NYSOFA): connects seniors to local services, benefits screening, home modifications through local partners. See NYSOFA.
  • New York City:
    • Housing Preservation and Development (HPD): Housing Connect lotteries, building repair loans, tenant resources. See NYC HPD.
    • New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA): public housing and Section 8 administration. See NYCHA.
    • Department of Finance (DOF): Rent Freeze (SCRIE) and property tax exemptions. See NYC DOF Benefits.
    • Human Resources Administration (HRA): CityFHEPS rental assistance, One-Shot Deal emergency aid. See NYC HRA.

Reality check: Waitlists are common, and forms can be detailed. Get help from your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) or a housing counselor. Find your AAA at NYSOFA: Local Offices.

Quick Guide: Choose the Help You Need

Need Best First Stops What It Does Where to Apply/Check
Help paying rent now 211, NYC Homebase, County DSS Emergency Assistance Screening and referrals, emergency aid if eligible 211 New York, NYC Homebase, OTDA Emergency Assistance
Freeze rent in a rent-regulated unit (NYC) Rent Freeze (SCRIE) Freezes rent for eligible seniors (62+) in rent-regulated apartments NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE)
Long-term rent subsidy Section 8 (voucher), Public Housing, CityFHEPS (NYC) Ongoing rent support if you get in HUD PHA contacts, NYCHA Section 8, CityFHEPS
Find affordable senior apartments Section 202 buildings, Housing Connect, HCR listings Below-market senior apartments, often with services HUD Resource Locator, NYC Housing Connect, HCR: Find Housing
Home repairs/modifications RESTORE, Access to Home, USDA 504, Weatherization Repairs and accessibility changes, energy upgrades HCR RESTORE, HCR Access to Home, USDA 504, HCR WAP
Lower utility bills HEAP, utility low-income discounts, NYSERDA programs Help with heating/cooling and efficiency OTDA HEAP, utility company assistance pages, NYSERDA EmPower+
Property tax relief (homeowners) SCHE (NYC), Enhanced STAR, local abatements Reduces property taxes for eligible seniors NYC SCHE, NYS Enhanced STAR, local assessor

Rent Help and Rent Freezes

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) and Public Housing

  • What it is: Section 8 vouchers cover part of your rent in private apartments. Public housing provides reduced rent in public developments.
  • Who runs it: Local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs). In NYC, that’s NYCHA; elsewhere it’s your local PHA.
  • Reality check: Waitlists open and close; they can be long. Apply when lists open and update your contact info.
  • Learn more:

NYC Rent Freeze for Seniors (SCRIE)

  • What it is: The Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) freezes the rent for eligible seniors (62+) living in rent-regulated apartments (rent-stabilized, rent-controlled, certain Mitchell-Lama). The city pays the landlord the difference through a property tax credit.
  • Basics:
    • Age: 62 or older.
    • Apartment: Must be rent-regulated (not market-rate).
    • Income and rent burden: Must meet NYC’s income limit and pay a required percentage of income toward rent.
  • Apply and check current income limits and forms at NYC Department of Finance – Rent Freeze (SCRIE). You can apply online, by mail, or in person.

SCRIE at a Glance

Item Details
Who qualifies NYC renters age 62+, in rent-regulated housing, meeting income and rent share rules
What you get Rent is frozen at the approved level; increases are covered via a landlord tax credit
Where to apply NYC Rent Freeze (SCRIE)
Key tip Call 311 and ask for “Rent Freeze” help if you need assistance completing the application

CityFHEPS (NYC)

  • What it is: A city rental assistance program that can help eligible New Yorkers, including older adults, with ongoing rent or move-in costs.
  • Where to start: Get screened at NYC Homebase or see CityFHEPS information.
  • Reality check: Rules change; funding can be limited. You’ll need documents like ID, income, and lease information.

Other Rent and Housing Supports

  • NYS Supportive Housing Program (NYSSHP): Funds services tied to housing for people at risk of homelessness, including older adults; applied through local providers. See OTDA NYSSHP.
  • Senior apartments (Section 202): HUD funds non-profits to operate affordable senior buildings, often with services. Use the HUD Resource Locator and contact buildings directly.
  • Pandemic ERAP: New York’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program has generally closed to new applications. Check any current notices at OTDA ERAP.

Finding Affordable Senior Housing

  • NYC Housing Connect: Central site for affordable housing lotteries, including senior buildings with set income bands. Create an account at NYC Housing Connect.
  • HCR Statewide Listings: Search for properties and see which management offices are taking applications: HCR – Find Affordable Housing.
  • HUD Section 202 and Subsidized Apartments: Search and contact properties: HUD Resource Locator.
  • Mitchell-Lama (NYC and Statewide): Middle-income rentals and co-ops, includes some senior developments. Learn how it works and watchlists at HCR Mitchell-Lama.

Reality check: Applications require time and documents. Waitlists can be years. Apply to multiple buildings. Ask your AAA or a housing counselor for help filling forms.

Home Repairs, Accessibility, and Weatherization

Seniors who own their home (or, in some cases, live in small co-ops/condos) can access grants or low-interest loans for critical repairs and accessibility changes.

Key Programs and What They Do

Program What it Covers Who Runs It Where to Learn More
RESTORE (Residential Emergency Services to Offer Repairs to the Elderly) Emergency repairs for health/safety (e.g., heat, plumbing, roofing) NYS HCR via local nonprofits HCR RESTORE
Access to Home (and variants: for Medicaid, for Heroes/Veterans) Accessibility modifications (ramps, lifts, bathroom changes) NYS HCR via local nonprofits HCR Access to Home
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) Insulation, air sealing, heating upgrades NYS HCR (federal DOE funds) HCR Weatherization
USDA Section 504 Home Repair Grants (for 62+) and loans for critical repairs in rural areas USDA Rural Development USDA 504 Repairs
NYC HPD HomeFix (for small homes) Low-interest loans and technical help for 1–4 family homes NYC Housing Preservation & Development HPD HomeFix
NYSERDA EmPower+ No-cost energy efficiency for income-eligible households NYSERDA EmPower New York

Reality check: Most HCR programs are delivered by local partners. You apply through a community agency in your county. Start at the program page, find local administrators, and call to get on their list.

Utility and Energy Help

  • HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program): Helps with heating (and sometimes cooling) costs and can cover emergency heat repairs/replacements. Apply via your county or online during open season. See OTDA HEAP.
  • Weatherization Assistance: See above; reduces bills long-term. HCR WAP.
  • Utility Low-Income Discounts: Each utility has discounts and arrears forgiveness for low-income customers.
  • Weather emergency tips: Keep proof of medical needs for priority reconnection programs where available.

Property Tax Relief for Senior Homeowners

  • SCHE (Senior Citizen Homeowners’ Exemption) – NYC: Reduces property taxes for eligible NYC homeowners age 65+ within income and residency rules. Check current limits and apply via NYC DOF – SCHE.
  • Enhanced STAR (statewide): Reduces school property taxes for eligible seniors age 65+ on their primary residence. See NYS Tax – Enhanced STAR.
  • Local Programs: Many counties/towns outside NYC offer senior exemptions. Contact your local assessor (find via your county website).

Reverse Mortgages (HECM): Proceed Carefully

  • What it is: A Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) lets seniors 62+ borrow against home equity and defer repayment until the home is sold or you move out.
  • Risks: Fees and interest can be high; scams exist. Get independent counseling first.
  • Where to learn more: HUD – HECM/Reverse Mortgages and find a counselor via HUD Approved Housing Counselors.

Homelessness Prevention and Emergency Help

  • City (NYC) Homebase: Prevents eviction, helps with arrears and relocation. NYC Homebase.
  • One-Shot Deal (NYC): Emergency grant/loan for sudden rent or utility arrears if eligible. HRA One-Shot Deal.
  • Statewide Emergency Assistance: Seniors on SSI may qualify for EAA; others for EAF or ESNA depending on situation. OTDA – Emergency Assistance.
  • Supportive Housing: Housing with onsite services for people with disabilities or chronic conditions. Many units are accessed via referrals from health providers or case managers. See OTDA NYSSHP and ask your AAA for local openings.

Reality check: Emergency programs move fast but require documents (ID, lease, rent ledger, utility bills, proof of income, and proof of crisis). Keep a folder ready.

Free Legal Help for Evictions and Foreclosure

Focused Help for Specific Communities

LGBTQ+ Older Adults

  • SAGE: Affordable senior housing and services, including NYC LGBTQ+-affirming senior residences. See SAGE Housing.
  • NYC Aging: LGBTQ+-inclusive senior centers and case management. See NYC Department for the Aging.

Veteran Seniors

Seniors with Disabilities

Tribal and Native American Seniors

  • HUD Office of Native American Programs (Eastern/Woodlands): Grants for tribal housing and rehab. See HUD ONAP – Eastern Woodlands.
  • Bureau of Indian Affairs Housing Improvement Program (HIP): Critical home repairs for eligible American Indian/Alaska Native households. See BIA HIP.
  • Contact your tribal housing authority (e.g., Seneca Nation, Oneida Indian Nation, St. Regis Mohawk Tribe) for current programs and waitlists.

Rural Seniors

  • USDA Rural Development: Section 504 Repair Grants (62+) and Loans, plus multi-family rental subsidies (Section 515/521). See USDA Rural Housing Programs.
  • Transportation and access: Your Area Agency on Aging can help arrange rides to apply or to view apartments. Find local AAA via NYSOFA Local Offices.
  • Weatherization and HEAP are critical in rural areas; apply early before winter.

NYC-Specific: What to Know

  • Apply for affordable and senior housing on NYC Housing Connect. Use the “senior” filter.
  • Use the HUD Resource Locator to find Section 202 buildings and contact managers directly.
  • If you are 62+ in a rent-regulated apartment, check your SCRIE eligibility at NYC Rent Freeze.
  • For eviction prevention and rent arrears, get screened at Homebase. For sudden emergencies, read about One-Shot Deal.
  • Building issues (heat, hot water, pests, repairs): Call 311 or see HPD Tenant Resources.

Common Scenarios and What to Do

“My rent just went up and I can’t afford it.”

  • If you’re 62+ and in a rent-regulated apartment in NYC, check SCRIE. Apply here.
  • Ask your landlord in writing for a rent history and consider speaking to a tenant counselor. See HCR Tenants’ Rights.
  • Outside NYC, call 211 for local rental assistance and legal help.

“I own my home but need repairs to stay safe.”

“I received eviction papers.”

  • In NYC, call 311 for the Tenant Helpline and contact Right to Counsel providers.
  • Statewide, contact your regional legal aid (see links above). Go to court dates. Bring all documents.
  • Ask about emergency assistance (EAA/EAF/ESNA): OTDA Emergency Aid.

Table: Affordable Senior Housing Paths

Path Pros Cons Where to Start
Section 202 Senior Buildings Age-specific, often with services Waitlists long; income limits apply HUD Resource Locator
Section 8 Voucher Choose your own unit; strong subsidy Waitlists often closed; inspections required HUD PHA Contacts
Public Housing Stable rent; on-site staff Limited availability; building rules NYCHA Apply
NYC Housing Connect New opportunities; online account Luck of lottery; paperwork heavy Housing Connect
Mitchell-Lama (some senior) Lower rents; varied neighborhoods Income/asset rules; lotteries/waits HCR Mitchell-Lama

Table: Documents You’ll Usually Need

Category Examples
ID Driver’s license, non-driver ID, passport, birth certificate
Income Social Security award letter, pension statement, pay stubs, benefits letters
Housing Lease, rent receipts, rent ledger, eviction papers (if any)
Assets Bank statements, benefit card info
Special status SSI/SSD letter, veteran discharge (DD-214), disability documentation

Tip: Keep a folder with copies. Ask your AAA or a community organization to make free copies if needed.

Resources by Region (Selected Starting Points)

If you’re not sure which office serves your town, call 211 to be routed to the right place.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is ERAP still available in New York?
A: New applications are generally closed due to limited funding. Check any updates at OTDA ERAP.

Q: I’m 62 and live in a market-rate NYC apartment. Can SCRIE help me?
A: SCRIE applies to rent-regulated units (rent-stabilized/rent-controlled and certain Mitchell-Lama). If your apartment is market-rate, SCRIE does not apply. See eligibility at NYC Rent Freeze.

Q: How do I find senior buildings with short waits?
A: Search HCR’s listings and the HUD Resource Locator, and apply widely. Check NYC Housing Connect regularly. Ask managers about “preferences” (e.g., community board, disability status) that might improve your odds.

Q: I need a ramp and a roll-in shower to stay at home. Who pays for that?
A: Check HCR’s Access to Home (including versions for Medicaid recipients and veterans) and your local weatherization agency for small health/safety fixes. If you’re a rural homeowner age 62+, check USDA Section 504 grants.

Q: My landlord isn’t fixing heat or hot water. What can I do?
A: In NYC, call 311 and report to HPD; see HPD – Heat and Hot Water. Outside NYC, contact your code enforcement office and consider legal aid.

Q: Are there income limits for senior housing?
A: Yes. Each building sets limits (often tied to Area Median Income). Check each listing on Housing Connect or HCR and call to confirm current limits.

Q: Can I get help if I own my home but am behind on property taxes or utilities?
A: Possibly. Check local tax installment plans and senior exemptions (NYC SCHE: link). For utilities, review arrears forgiveness and HEAP: HEAP.

Q: What’s the difference between Section 8 and Section 202?
A: Section 8 is a voucher you use with a private landlord; Section 202 funds senior apartment buildings (apply to each building). Learn more at HUD – Section 8 and HUD – Section 202.

Q: Where can I get unbiased advice before taking a reverse mortgage?
A: Use a HUD-approved counselor: Find a housing counselor. Do not sign anything under pressure.

Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips

  • Avoid scams: No legitimate agency will ask for fees to get you on a waitlist or guarantee a voucher.
  • Keep records: Save receipts, letters, and court papers. Bring them to appointments.
  • Apply early and often: Put in multiple applications; keep your contact info updated.
  • Use helpers: Ask your AAA, a senior center, or a legal aid group to help with forms.
  • Be patient but persistent: Housing programs are in high demand; following up helps.

Additional Program Highlights (With Official Sources)

Note: Long-term care is costly in New York; Medicaid planning and benefits counseling may help. Contact your AAA or NYS Medicaid – Long Term Care for guidance.

Table: Home Repair and Accessibility – Which One Fits?

Your Situation Best Match Why Source
Emergency (no heat, unsafe wiring, failing roof) RESTORE Targets health/safety urgent repairs HCR RESTORE
Need ramps, grab bars, bath conversion Access to Home Designed for accessibility HCR Access to Home
Rural homeowner, age 62+, low income USDA 504 Grant Grants up to limits for critical repairs USDA 504
High energy bills, drafty home Weatherization Insulation, heating system upgrades HCR WAP
NYC 1–4 family homeowner needs financing HPD HomeFix Low-interest loans and guidance HPD Homeowners

Sources and Tools You Can Trust

Disclaimer

We do our best to keep this guide accurate and current. Program rules, funding, and eligibility change. Always verify details with the official agency or program website before you apply.

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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