Advocates working with older adults should be aware of two important enrollment periods with a March 31 deadline
February 18, 2025Important changes to replacement for stolen SNAP and Temporary Assistance (TA) benefits
February 18, 2025The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) can help eligible New Yorkers heat and cool their homes. If you are eligible, you may receive one regular HEAP benefit per program year and could also be eligible for emergency HEAP benefits if you are in danger of running out of fuel or having your utility service shut off.
Eligibility and benefits are based on:
- income,
- household size,
- the primary heating source, and
- the presence of a household member who is under age 6, age 60 or older, or permanently disabled.
To learn more, please visit the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance’s website.
The Public Benefits Unit provides legal assistance to persons who experience problems with public benefits programs that are administered by the local Departments of Social Services, including:
- Welfare (TANF and Safety Net)
- Medicaid
- Food Stamps (SNAP)
- Child Care Assistance
- HEAP
- Emergency shelter for the homeless
- Unemployment insurance appeals and overpayments
- Other emergency assistance programs
We also assist low-income households in establishing Supplemental Needs Trusts to eliminate the Medicaid spend-down and assist homeless families in obtaining rent supplements from DSS to enable families to leave the shelters or retain permanent housing. Nassau residents can call 516-292-8100 and Suffolk residents can call 631-232-2400.
