Public benefits are government programs that help with basic needs like food, health care, housing, and income. If you are struggling financially or need assistance, these programs can help you and your family.
What kinds of help are available?
There are many different types of assistance depending on your situation and needs:
- Help with food: If you need help buying food, you may qualify for SNAP benefits (food stamps), WIC for pregnant women and young children, or other nutrition programs.
- Health insurance and medical care: You can sign up for health insurance through NY State of Health. If you cannot afford health insurance, you may be eligible for Medicaid or Medicare. There are also special programs for people living with HIV/AIDS.
- Cash assistance and income support: If you need help with living expenses, you may qualify for Public Assistance (welfare), Social Security Disability benefits, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Learn more about temporary assistance to help with living expenses.
- Help with housing and utilities: If you are struggling to pay rent or utility bills, there are programs that can help, including emergency help with food, housing, rent, heat, and more.
- Child care assistance: If you need help paying for child care, you can get help paying for child care.
- Unemployment benefits: If you lost your job and it was not your fault, you may be able to get unemployment insurance benefits. Learn more: Introduction to Unemployment
Can I get public benefits?
It depends on many factors, including your income, household size, age, disability status, and immigration status. Since each program has different rules, it's worth applying or checking to see if you qualify.
Be aware: Most of these programs have strict requirements and the application process can be long and complicated, with a lot of paperwork. This is intentional: the system is designed to discourage people. But it's worth applying and keeping at it, even if you're denied the first time.
How do I apply?
You can apply for many public benefits online through New York's myBenefits portal, by phone, by mail, or in person at your local benefits office.
What if I need help in my language?
If you have trouble speaking English, you can get help in your language to apply for benefits or deal with government agencies. Ask for a free translator or interpreter.
Learn more: Trouble speaking English? You can get a free translator (NYC)
How do I ask for an interpreter in my language at the Social Security Administration?
What if my benefits are denied or reduced?
If your benefits are denied, reduced, or stopped, appeal the decision. This is called requesting a Fair Hearing. You can challenge the decision and explain why you believe it was wrong.
Learn more: Request a Fair Hearing
Getting help
Applying for benefits is complicated. If you need help understanding the programs or navigating the application process, contact your local benefits office.
Last Reviewed: February 6, 2026