Typically, new applications for public assistance benefits take 30-45 days to be approved. If you are without any food or resources when you apply for public assistance or food stamps, you have the right to request emergency assistance. Tell your case worker that you are homeless, your income is very low, and it is an emergency that you receive help now.
If you are in need of public assistance benefits, but do not have identification, a number of lawsuits guarantee you the right to submit an application. The Human Resources Administration must help you to secure the documents they need to open your case. Tell the worker you meet with that you are homeless and do not have access to documentation of your identity. Ask for their help in securing this documentation.
If you believe HRA or DHS has made an error in determining your eligibility for assistance, or for the amount of a grant, you can request a fair hearing with a representative of the State Office of Temporary Disability Assistance. It may take time for your hearing to be scheduled. When requesting a fair hearing make sure to request “Aid to Continue” if you were receiving benefits and they were cut off. If granted, Aid to Continue, will allow you to continue receiving your benefits while you are waiting for your hearing. If you need advice about your public assistance benefits or request for Aid to Continue, please come in to see an advocate in the Crisis Intervention Program.
You can file for a fair hearing by any of the means listed below:
In person: 14 Boreum Place Downtown Brooklyn Take the 2,3,4,5, N or R trains to Court Street or Brooklyn Borough Hall
By Phone: 1 (800) 342-3334
By Fax: 518-473-6735 ( the form below should be printed and faxed)
By Mail: Office of Administrative Hearings, P.O. Box 1930, Albany, NY 12201-1930
Online Form: Click Here
