Monthly cash help when you are in need
Cash Assistance | NYC Human Resources Administration (HRA)
1. How it Works
Your family can get cash if you’re in need. Many families will get the funds on a debit card that can be used at any ATM or store where EBT cards are accepted. Some families may only qualify to get funds paid directly to their landlord.
Requires proof of identity, where you live, and income.
Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for Cash Assistance even if you’re not a U.S. citizen.
If you’re 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. If you’re 60 or older, you are waived from this requirement.
2. Determine your eligibility
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
3. What you need to include
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.
Check the Cash Assistance document guide to see what else you can use as proof.
4. How to apply
Here are your options.
Apply online
Apply on ACCESS HRA. You can apply for Cash Assistance, SNAP, and Medicaid at the same time.
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.