Question 1

What is CityFHEPS and who qualifies in NYC?

Accepted Answer

CityFHEPS (City Fighting Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement) is NYC's largest rental assistance voucher program. As of 2026, it covers up to $2,217/month for a studio, $2,467/month for a 1-bedroom, $2,821/month for a 2-bedroom, and $3,217/month for a 3-bedroom apartment. To qualify, you must be a NYC resident, have income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level (about $29,160/year for a single person), and be at risk of homelessness or currently in shelter. Foster youth and families with children get priority access. Apply at your local HRA office or through a case manager — call 311 to start.

Question 2

Is Section 8 open in NYC right now (2026)?

Accepted Answer

As of 2026, the NYC Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) waitlist remains closed. NYCHA last opened it briefly in 2021. When it reopens, NYC announces it citywide — check nyc.gov/nycha and sign up for alerts. While you wait, apply for CityFHEPS (which is open and faster), the Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV) if you've experienced domestic violence or homelessness, or the FYI Voucher if you're a foster youth aging out. These serve the same function as Section 8 and are currently accepting applications.

Question 3

What is the FYI Voucher for foster youth?

Accepted Answer

The FYI (Foster Youth to Independence) Voucher is a federal HUD voucher specifically for former foster youth ages 18–24 who are homeless or at risk. It provides rental assistance similar to Section 8 and can be used anywhere a landlord accepts housing vouchers. To apply, contact your local Public Housing Authority (NYC: NYCHA at 718-707-7771) or ask your ACS caseworker or Fair Futures coach. This voucher requires documentation of your foster care history.

Question 4

How do I apply for NYCHA (public housing) as a foster youth?

Accepted Answer

Foster youth in NYC get priority placement in NYCHA public housing. Apply online at nyc.gov/nycha or in person at any NYCHA office. You'll need: photo ID, birth certificate, Social Security card, proof of NYC residence, and documentation of your foster care status (ACS letter or discharge papers). Once your application is processed, you're placed on the waiting list — foster youth priority typically means a shorter wait than the general list. Ask your ACS caseworker to submit a priority referral letter, which can significantly speed up the process.

Question 5

What is SOTA and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

SOTA (Special One-Time Assistance) is an NYC program that pays up to 12 months of rent upfront to help people move out of homeless shelters into private apartments. It's available to NYC residents currently in the DHS shelter system. SOTA can pay for apartments anywhere in the country, not just NYC. Your shelter case manager must apply on your behalf — you cannot apply directly. Approvals typically take 2–4 weeks. Once you find an apartment, SOTA pays the landlord the lump sum and you begin paying your share after that initial period.

Question 6

What is HASA housing assistance in NYC?

Accepted Answer

HASA (HIV/AIDS Services Administration) is an NYC agency that provides comprehensive housing assistance to people with HIV/AIDS and their households. HASA housing benefits include rental assistance, placement in HASA-contracted housing units, and supportive housing services. To access HASA housing, you must be a NYC resident, HIV-positive, and meet income guidelines. Call HASA at 212-971-0626 or visit a HASA office. There is no waitlist for people actively enrolled in HASA — services begin quickly once you're certified.

Question 7

What is HomeBase and how does it prevent eviction?

Accepted Answer

HomeBase is NYC's free eviction prevention program. It provides emergency cash assistance for rent arrears, help applying for benefits, connections to employment services, and case management — all to help you stay in your current home. HomeBase serves NYC residents who are at imminent risk of eviction or homelessness. To apply, call 311 and say 'HomeBase' or visit a HomeBase location in your borough. Services are free and can include up to $10,000 in one-time emergency rental assistance. You do not need to be in shelter to qualify.

Question 8

Can I get housing help if I'm doubling up or couch surfing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Couch surfing and doubling up (living temporarily with others) legally qualifies as experiencing homelessness in NYC. This means you can access shelter services, emergency housing vouchers, and priority placement on housing programs. To access emergency housing, call 311 and say you are homeless. You do not need to be on the street to qualify. For foster youth specifically, call ACS at 212-341-0900 and ask about Anthos|Home housing placement — a program for youth aging out of care who are couch surfing or without stable housing.

Question 9

What are the SNAP (food stamps) income limits in NYC for 2026?

Accepted Answer

For SNAP in NYC in 2026, the gross income limit is 130% of the federal poverty level: approximately $1,580/month ($18,954/year) for a household of 1, $2,137/month for a household of 2, and $2,694/month for a household of 3. Foster youth under 22 who were in foster care are categorically eligible for SNAP with no income limit. People receiving Cash Assistance are automatically enrolled in SNAP. Apply at ACCESS HRA (access.nyc.gov), call 311, or visit any HRA Job Center. Emergency (expedited) SNAP can be processed within 7 days if you have no income.

Question 10

Who qualifies for Medicaid as a foster youth in NYC?

Accepted Answer

Former foster youth in NYC qualify for free Medicaid until age 26 with no income limit — this is one of the most important benefits of aging out of foster care. You qualify regardless of immigration status for emergency services, and regardless of income or employment. To enroll, go to access.nyc.gov or call 1-800-541-2831. You'll need: photo ID, birth certificate or passport, Social Security number, and proof of your foster care status (ACS letter or discharge papers). Medicaid covers doctor visits, mental health therapy, prescriptions, emergency care, and more at no cost to you.

Question 11

What is Cash Assistance and how much does it pay?

Accepted Answer

Cash Assistance (CA) in NYC provides monthly cash payments to low-income families and individuals. For a single adult in 2026, the monthly benefit is approximately $291 plus a $69 Home Energy Assistance supplement ($360 total). For a family of 3, benefits are approximately $789/month. Recipients are also automatically enrolled in Medicaid and SNAP. To apply, go to access.nyc.gov or visit an HRA Job Center with: photo ID, proof of income (or lack thereof), Social Security card, and proof of NYC residence.

Question 12

What is the One Shot Deal emergency cash assistance in NYC?

Accepted Answer

The One Shot Deal (formally 'Emergency Assistance to Adults' or EAA) is an NYC one-time emergency cash payment for adults facing a specific crisis — most commonly to prevent eviction, restore utility services, or cover burial costs. It is not a recurring benefit. To apply, visit your local HRA Job Center or apply online at ACCESS HRA. You must demonstrate a specific emergency (eviction notice, utility shutoff notice, etc.) and that you have no other way to cover it. Approval decisions typically take 1–2 weeks, but emergency cases can be expedited.

Question 13

What is HEAP and who qualifies for heating assistance?

Accepted Answer

HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) provides free heating assistance to low-income NYC households. The Regular HEAP benefit provides a one-time payment of $250–$735 directly to your utility provider or fuel supplier. Emergency HEAP provides additional help if you're facing a shutoff or heating system failure. To qualify, your household income must be at or below 60% of the state median income (approximately $40,000/year for a single person). Apply online at mybenefits.ny.gov or call 212-331-3126. The program typically opens in November and runs through the heating season.

Question 14

What is the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and can young adults claim it?

Accepted Answer

The EITC is a federal tax credit for working people with low-to-moderate income. For 2026, a single worker with no children can receive up to $632 federal + up to $408 NYS EITC if they earned between $1 and $18,591. Workers with 1 child can get up to $3,995 federal credit. You must be 25–64 without a qualifying child (or any age with a qualifying child) to claim the federal EITC — but New York State allows the credit starting at age 18 with no children. File your taxes free at nyc.gov/tax or visit an NYC Financial Empowerment Center to file at no cost.

Question 15

What happens when I age out of foster care at 21 in NYC?

Accepted Answer

In NYC, most youth can remain in foster care — with ACS support and aftercare services — until age 21. After leaving, you're entitled to: extended Medicaid until age 26 (no income limit), priority NYCHA housing placement, Fair Futures coaching through age 26, access to ETV vouchers (up to $13,137/year for education), and a one-time ACS discharge grant of up to $1,000 for household items. If you need to return to foster care before age 21, email FPSReEntry@acs.nyc.gov. If you left care after age 18 and need housing, call ACS at 212-341-0900 and ask about Anthos|Home.

Question 16

What is the Education and Training Voucher (ETV) for foster youth?

Accepted Answer

The ETV (Education and Training Voucher) provides up to $13,137 per year for education and training expenses for current and former foster youth up to age 26. It covers tuition, room and board, books, supplies, transportation, and even a laptop. You must be enrolled in an accredited postsecondary school, vocational program, or apprenticeship. To apply, contact the NYC ETV program through your ACS worker or go to fostercarenychomes.org. Apply early — funding is limited. You can use ETV alongside FAFSA, scholarships, and other aid.

Question 17

What is ACS aftercare and how long can I get it?

Accepted Answer

ACS aftercare is continued support after you leave foster care, available until age 21. It includes case management, help finding housing, enrollment in benefits, referrals to employment and education programs, and crisis support. If you left care after 18 and want to re-engage with services, email olderyouthsupport@acs.nyc.gov or call 212-341-0900. For youth who left care before 21 and want to voluntarily return for additional support (voluntary extended care), you can return before your 21st birthday — email FPSReEntry@acs.nyc.gov.

Question 18

What is the ACS discharge grant and how do I get it?

Accepted Answer

When you formally leave ACS foster care, you are entitled to a one-time discharge grant of up to $1,000 to help set up your new home — for furniture, household items, kitchen supplies, bedding, and similar necessities. This is not automatic — you must ask your caseworker to initiate it before your discharge date. Your worker should submit a Discharge Grant Request through ACS. If your worker doesn't mention it, proactively ask: 'Can you submit my discharge grant request before I leave care?' Keep documentation of how the money was spent.

Question 19

Can I get help after aging out if I'm over 21?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Even after aging out at 21, there are programs specifically for former foster youth over 21. Fair Futures coaching continues through age 26 — contact them at fairfuturesny.org. NYC's College Choice and Career Choice programs (through ACS) serve youth through age 26 in school or job training. For youth over 26, the NYC Foster Alumni Network provides community connection. For housing, CityFHEPS has no age limit. SNAP and Medicaid have no age limit. The NYC Financial Empowerment Centers offer free financial counseling to adults of any age.

Question 20

What documents should I collect before aging out of foster care?

Accepted Answer

Before leaving foster care, collect: (1) Birth certificate — free for foster youth through vital records; (2) Social Security card — visit ssa.gov or your local Social Security office; (3) State ID or driver's license — IDNYC is free and requires no SSN; (4) Passport (if possible); (5) Medicaid card; (6) ACS discharge letter stating your foster care history (you'll need this for many programs); (7) School transcripts and diploma or GED; (8) Medical records including vaccination history; (9) Bank account information. ACS is legally required to help you obtain these documents before discharge.

Question 21

What is SYEP and how old do you have to be to apply?

Accepted Answer

SYEP (Summer Youth Employment Program) is NYC's free paid summer jobs program. In 2026, it pays $16.50/hour (NYC minimum wage) for up to 25 hours/week for 6 weeks in the summer. You must be ages 14–24 to apply, a NYC resident, and have work authorization. Applications typically open in February–March for the summer program. Apply at dycd.nyc.gov/SYEP or through your school, community center, or DYCD provider. Foster youth and homeless youth get priority placement. There is no income requirement to apply.

Question 22

How do I get a city government job in NYC?

Accepted Answer

NYC government (civil service) jobs require passing civil service exams administered by DCAS (Department of Citywide Administrative Services). Popular exams for entry-level positions include: Police Officer ($52,116 starting), Firefighter ($45,196 starting), Sanitation Worker ($45,196 starting), School Safety Agent ($38,419 starting), and Correction Officer ($50,000 starting). Exams are announced at nyc.gov/dcas — check regularly and apply when the exam is open. Most exams cost $68–$88 to apply, but fee waivers are available for low-income applicants. Veterans get 5–10 extra points added to their exam scores.

Question 23

What free job training is available in NYC?

Accepted Answer

NYC has extensive free job training: (1) Workforce1 Career Centers — 18 locations citywide, walk-in welcome, offers job placement, resume help, and training grants; (2) Per Scholas — free tech job training (IT support, cybersecurity, data) with job placement assistance; (3) Year Up — free 1-year program combining tech training with paid corporate internships ($15–$21/hour stipend); (4) SYEP — paid summer work experience for ages 14–24; (5) NYC DOE Adult Education — free TASC (GED equivalent) and vocational training; (6) CUNY ASAP — free community college support with MetroCard and tutoring. All programs are free to qualified NYC residents.

Question 24

What is Fair Futures and how do I join?

Accepted Answer

Fair Futures is NYC's free one-on-one coaching program for youth in foster care and the juvenile justice system, available through age 26. Your dedicated coach helps with: housing, college applications, job searching, financial aid, mental health referrals, and life skills. Monthly stipends are available for participation. To join: if you're currently in foster care, ask your ACS caseworker to connect you to Fair Futures at your agency. If you've already left care but are under 26, contact Fair Futures directly at fairfuturesny.org or call 212-341-3000. Services are free and voluntary.

Question 25

What is Workforce1 and where are the locations?

Accepted Answer

Workforce1 is NYC's free job placement and career center network run by the Department of Small Business Services. All services are free: job placement, resume writing, interview coaching, career counseling, and referrals to paid training programs. There are 18 locations across all 5 boroughs — find the nearest at nyc.gov/getwork or call 311. No appointment needed — walk in with a photo ID and proof of NYC residence. Workforce1 also connects you to Individual Training Grants (ITGs) that pay for certifications in healthcare, IT, construction, and other in-demand fields.

Question 26

What jobs are available at MTA and how do I apply?

Accepted Answer

MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) offers several entry-level job tracks. Bus Operator starts at $21.10/hour with full benefits and pension. Train Operator starts at $23.86/hour. Station Agent starts at $21.09/hour. Cleaner positions are available with starting pay around $19–21/hour. Most MTA positions require: U.S. citizenship or work authorization, a valid driver's license (for bus operator), and passing a background check and drug test. Apply at mta.info/careers. The MTA regularly holds job fairs in NYC — check the Youth Navigator NYC job fairs section for upcoming events.

Question 27

How do I get an IDNYC card in New York City?

Accepted Answer

IDNYC is NYC's free municipal ID card accepted by city agencies, police, libraries, and many businesses. To apply: (1) Schedule an appointment at nyc.gov/idnyc or call 212-417-6945; (2) Bring one document proving NYC residency (utility bill, lease, bank statement) and one document proving identity (birth certificate, passport, or immigration document). Undocumented immigrants can get IDNYC — it does not share information with immigration authorities. There's no SSN requirement. IDNYC holders get free museum memberships and cultural benefits. Cards are valid for 5 years.

Question 28

How do I get a birth certificate as a foster youth in NYC?

Accepted Answer

Foster youth and people who aged out of care can get a certified copy of their NYC birth certificate at no charge. Visit the NYC Department of Health's Office of Vital Statistics at 125 Worth Street, Manhattan, and bring your ACS paperwork or foster care documentation showing you were in care. You can also order online at nyc.gov/vitals but may need to show documentation. If you were born outside NYC, contact the vital records office of the state where you were born. ACS is legally required to help you obtain your birth certificate before you leave care — ask your caseworker.

Question 29

How do I replace a lost Social Security card?

Accepted Answer

You can replace a Social Security card for free at ssa.gov or at your local Social Security office. You're allowed up to 3 replacement cards per year and 10 in a lifetime. You'll need: proof of identity (driver's license, passport, or birth certificate), and proof of U.S. citizenship or immigration status. You can apply online if you have a driver's license or state ID. Processing typically takes 10–14 business days. For the nearest Social Security office in NYC, visit ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213. Foster youth: ask your ACS caseworker to help if you don't have identity documents yet.

Question 30

How do I get a free state ID or driver's license in NYC?

Accepted Answer

To get a New York State ID card (non-driver), visit any DMV office with: proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), proof of date of birth, proof of Social Security number (or exemption), and 2 proofs of NY address. The fee is $13 for a state ID, but it's waived for people receiving public assistance or foster care alumni. To waive the fee, bring documentation of your benefits or foster care status. Book a DMV appointment at dmv.ny.gov. If you need a driver's license, also pass the written and road tests. DMV offices are in all 5 boroughs.

Question 31

How do I get free mental health therapy in NYC?

Accepted Answer

NYC has extensive free mental health resources: (1) NYC Well — call 1-888-NYC-WELL (1-888-692-9355) for free 24/7 counseling by phone, text, or chat in 200+ languages; (2) A Home Within — free long-term therapy specifically for foster youth and alumni with no session limit; (3) The Door — free mental health services for youth ages 12–24 in Manhattan; (4) Community Health Centers in your borough — sliding-scale or free with Medicaid; (5) Fair Futures coaches can connect you to mental health providers. If you have Medicaid, you can see most therapists citywide at no cost.

Question 32

What is NYC Well and how do I access it?

Accepted Answer

NYC Well is NYC's free mental health helpline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. It's staffed by trained counselors and peer support specialists. You can call 1-888-NYC-WELL (1-888-692-9355), text 'WELL' to 65173, or chat online at nycwell.cityofnewyork.us. Services are available in over 200 languages. NYC Well can provide immediate counseling, connect you to ongoing therapy, schedule appointments on your behalf, and follow up with you after a crisis. It's completely free, confidential, and does not require insurance or ID.

Question 33

Can I get mental health help even if I don't have insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Multiple free mental health options exist regardless of insurance status: (1) NYC Well — free 24/7 by phone, text, or chat; (2) Community mental health centers operate on a sliding-scale fee (as low as $0 based on income); (3) Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) offer free or reduced-cost mental health care; (4) The Door (ages 12–24) in Manhattan provides free mental health services; (5) Many nonprofits like Safe Horizon provide free trauma-informed counseling. Additionally, if you're a foster youth under 26, you qualify for free Medicaid which covers mental health therapy.

Question 34

What is A Home Within and how do I get therapy through them?

Accepted Answer

A Home Within is a national organization that provides free, long-term, one-on-one psychotherapy specifically for current and former foster youth. The unique feature: there is no session limit — therapy continues as long as needed. Therapists are volunteer licensed professionals who see one foster youth client each as a pro-bono commitment. To apply in NYC, visit ahomewithin.org or call 415-984-0212. There's typically a waitlist of a few months. A Home Within is particularly valuable for youth with complex trauma who need ongoing, stable therapeutic relationships.

Question 35

What number do I call if I'm having thoughts of suicide?

Accepted Answer

Call or text 988 — the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. It's free, confidential, and available 24/7. You'll be connected to a trained crisis counselor. If you prefer texting, text 'HOME' to 741741 (Crisis Text Line) for silent, confidential support. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. For LGBTQ+ youth specifically, The Trevor Project is available at 1-866-488-7386 or text 'START' to 678-678. For NYC-specific mental health crisis support, call NYC Well at 1-888-692-9355. All of these services are free, available around the clock, and do not require any ID or insurance.

Question 36

What do I do if I need emergency shelter in NYC tonight?

Accepted Answer

Call 311 immediately — NYC is legally required to provide emergency shelter to anyone who needs it, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Tell them you need emergency shelter. For youth under 24, Covenant House at 460 W 41st Street is open 24/7 (call 212-727-4000 first). For LGBTQ+ youth, Ali Forney Center has drop-in services at 321 W 125th St, Harlem (call 212-222-3427). For former foster youth specifically, call ACS at 212-341-0900 and ask about Anthos|Home — dedicated housing placement for youth aging out of care. Bring any ID or documents you have, but they must help you even if you have nothing.

Question 37

What is the domestic violence hotline in NYC?

Accepted Answer

The NYC Domestic Violence Hotline operates 24/7 at 1-800-621-HOPE (4673) for English and 212-577-7777 (Safe Horizon) for multilingual support. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233. If you're in immediate danger, call 911. Safe Horizon operates 5 Family Justice Centers across NYC (Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island) providing free legal help, safety planning, and connections to shelter — no appointment needed. You can also chat online at thehotline.org. All DV services are completely confidential and free.

Question 38

What is the NYC Well phone number and what can they help with?

Accepted Answer

NYC Well is 1-888-NYC-WELL (1-888-692-9355) — free, 24/7, in 200+ languages. They can: (1) provide immediate crisis counseling over the phone; (2) connect you to ongoing mental health treatment; (3) schedule therapy appointments on your behalf same-day; (4) provide peer support from people with lived experience; (5) follow up with you after a mental health crisis to make sure you're connected to care. NYC Well also offers text support (text 'WELL' to 65173) and online chat at nycwell.cityofnewyork.us. There's no cost, no insurance required, and no ID needed.

Question 39

Where can LGBTQ+ youth in NYC get immediate help?

Accepted Answer

LGBTQ+ youth in NYC have dedicated crisis resources: (1) The Trevor Project — 1-866-488-7386 or text 'START' to 678-678 (24/7 crisis support for LGBTQ+ young people); (2) Trans Lifeline — 877-565-8860 (staffed by transgender people); (3) Ali Forney Center — 212-222-3427, drop-in at 321 W 125th St, Harlem (housing and services for homeless LGBTQ+ youth); (4) NYC Anti-Violence Project — 212-714-1141 (24/7 hotline for LGBTQ+ survivors of violence); (5) Callen-Lorde Community Health Center — 212-271-7200 (free/low-cost healthcare). NYC shelters are legally prohibited from discriminating based on gender identity.

Question 40

What is CUNY ASAP and how do I qualify?

Accepted Answer

CUNY ASAP (Accelerated Study in Associate Programs) is the most comprehensive community college support program in the country. Benefits include: tuition gap coverage (tuition after financial aid and Pell Grant), free monthly MetroCard, free textbook loans, free tutoring and advising, career counseling, and priority registration. To qualify: enroll in a CUNY community college, complete FAFSA, be a full-time student (12+ credits). Foster youth get priority enrollment. CUNY ASAP graduates at more than twice the national community college graduation rate. Contact the ASAP office at your CUNY campus.

Question 41

How can I get my GED or high school equivalency diploma in NYC?

Accepted Answer

NYC offers free GED/TASC (High School Equivalency) preparation through NYC DOE Adult Education. Classes are available in all 5 boroughs in day, evening, and weekend schedules. To enroll, call 718-935-5900 or visit schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/high-school-and-beyond/adult-education. You need to be 17+ and not currently enrolled in school. The TASC test fee is waived for many NYC residents — ask when you enroll. Passing the 5 TASC subject tests earns you an NYS High School Equivalency diploma, which is accepted by all colleges, employers, and the military.

Question 42

What financial aid is available for foster youth in college?

Accepted Answer

Foster youth have access to significant college financial aid: (1) Chafee ETV Voucher — up to $13,137/year for tuition, housing, books, and supplies through age 26; (2) FAFSA Independent Status — foster youth 24 and under are automatically independent filers, often qualifying for maximum Pell Grant ($7,395/year); (3) NYC College Choice Program — ACS covers remaining tuition, room and board, and provides a daily stipend for foster youth through age 26; (4) TAP (Tuition Assistance Program) — NY state grant up to $5,665/year; (5) Institutional foster youth scholarships at many CUNY and SUNY schools. File FAFSA as early as possible at studentaid.gov.