Your family can get cash if you are in need. The funds come on a debit card that you can use at any ATM or store where EBT cards are accepted.
- Requires proof of identity, where you live, income, and citizenship status.
- You must be a US citizen or have satisfactory immigration status to receive Cash Assistance. A worker will help you learn your status when you apply.
- If you are able to work, you will either need to be working, be in an education or training program, or participate in a program assigned to you in order to get Cash Assistance.
Who is eligible
This program looks at several things to decide if you are eligible. Some of them include:
- how much money you earn
- how much money you receive from benefits
- how many people live in your house
- resources like cash or a checking account
- your citizenship or immigration status
What you need to apply
To apply for Cash Assistance you will need to prove the following:
- Your identity: such as a photo ID, driver’s license, passport, naturalization certificate, or hospital records.
- Where you live: such as a statement from your landlord, current rent receipt, lease, or mortgage records.
- Your income (if any): such as a current pay stub, business records, current income tax return, or an Unemployment Insurance Benefit statement.
- Citizenship or immigration status: such as your birth certificate, U.S. passport, or military service records.
Check the Cash Assistance document guide to see what else you can use as proof.
How to apply
Apply online
- Apply on ACCESS HRA. You can apply for Cash Assistance, SNAP, and Medicaid Renewal at the same time through the Cash Assistance application.
- Use the ACCESS HRA mobile app to track the progress of your application or submit documents.
- You will be contacted for a phone interview. You can also visit an HRA Benefits Access Center for an in-person interview.
Apply by mail
- Print the application and complete it.
- Mail it to or drop it in the Drop Box at an HRA Benefits Access Center.
- You will be contacted for a phone interview. You can also visit an HRA Benefits Access Center for an in-person interview.
Apply in person
Visit an open HRA Benefits Access Center to apply. It will help if you bring proof of your identity, where you live, who lives with you, and your income. A worker will tell you which of these things you must prove.
How to get help
- Visit the Cash Assistance website to learn more about this program.
- Call the HRA Infoline at 718-557-1399 for more information.
Other Cash & Expenses Programs
Child Tax Credit (CTC)
NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP); Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Tax credit for families with children
Families can claim this tax credit worth up to $2,000 for each qualifying child under 17 years old.
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit
NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP); Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Tax refund if you paid for child and dependent care
Get money back if you paid for childcare or adult dependent care while working or looking for work.
Updated January 30, 2023