NYC Benefits Resources

Provides temporary cash assistance to eligible families with dependent children to help with basic needs such as shelter, food, and clothing. As of May 2025, there are specific work requirements and time limits associated with receiving TANF benefits in New York State.

Eligibility: Families with one or more dependent children under the age of 18 (or 19 if in secondary school), residency requirements apply. Applicants must cooperate with child support enforcement.

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A federal and New York State tax credit for low- to moderate-income working individuals and families. Claiming the EITC can significantly reduce the amount of tax owed and may result in a refund. The income thresholds and credit amounts for the 2025 tax year (filed in 2026) have been updated.

Type: Federal and State Tax Credit. Eligibility depends on income and number of qualifying children. Filing jointly as a married couple often results in a higher credit.

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Provides emergency cash assistance to eligible single adults and childless couples facing unforeseen circumstances that threaten their basic living needs. Eligibility criteria have been revised in early 2025 to include broader reasons for emergency.

Eligibility: Single adults or childless couples meeting specific crisis criteria, income and resource limits apply. Assistance is typically short-term.

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Helps eligible households behind on their rent or utilities. While the program reopened for a limited time in early 2025, new applications are currently under review, and funding availability may vary. Check the website for updates on future application periods.

Eligibility: Renters meeting specific income requirements and facing housing instability due to COVID-19 or other financial hardships. Landlord participation is often required.

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A federal program providing monthly cash payments to adults and children with a disability or limited income and resources, and to people age 65 or older who meet the financial criteria. Benefit amounts were adjusted for cost of living in January 2025.

Eligibility: Must meet disability criteria (for those under 65) or age requirement (65 or older), and have limited income and resources. U.S. citizenship or specific non-citizen status is required.

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