OTDA Home Resources for Working Families
Service
An online tool for New York State residents where they can check eligibility for multiple human services benefit programs and apply online for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and Temporary Assistance.
Information
A listing of Local Departments of Social Services by County
Resource
A web application that provides an easy-to-use starting point for first-time users of social programs. After answering some questions, the user is provided with a ranked list of potential services to help them decide if the service is right for them and provides information about how to apply.
Programs
Information on nutrition programs that can help you feed your family healthy meals such as, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), School Breakfast and Lunch Programs, Summer Food Service Program, Women, Infants and Child program, Child Nutrition, Farmers' Markets Nutrition Program, and Food Banks in New York State.
Service
EBT is the method by which the OTDA delivers cash and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to New York State’s recipient population.
Information
Learn about scams and how to protect your benefits.
Programs
Information on energy programs that can help you heat your home and reduce your energy costs.
Services
The child support program assists custodial parents in establishing parentage, and obtaining, modifying and enforcing financial and medical support obligations.
Programs
Find out how your local department of social services can help you pay for the cost of child care.
Programs
Information on tax credit programs you may be eligible for, such as Earned Income Tax Credits, New York State Noncustodial Parent Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credits and Child and Dependent Care Tax Credits.
Service
VITA is a free, IRS-sponsored program to help low- and middle-income workers have their taxes prepared and filed electronically at no cost. VITA also ensures that workers receive all the tax credits to which they are entitled.
Service
You and your family have many new low cost, quality health insurance options available through the Individual Marketplace. You can quickly compare health plan options and apply for assistance that could lower the cost of your health coverage. You may also qualify for health care coverage from Medicaid or Child Health Plus through the Marketplace.
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ACCESS NYC, a free service that identifies and screens for over 30 New York City, State, and Federal human service benefit programs. You may use this service anonymously or you have the option to create an account.
Programs
The Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income programs provide assistance to people with disabilities. While these two programs are different, only individuals who have a disability and meet medical criteria may qualify for benefits under either program.
Programs
New York State's Paid Family Leave provides New Yorkers with job-protected, paid leave to bond with a new child, care for a loved one with a serious health condition or to help relieve family pressures when someone is called to active military service abroad.
Programs
Unemployment insurance is temporary income for eligible workers who become unemployed through no fault of their own and who are ready, willing, able to work and have sufficient work and wages in covered employment.
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Tools to assist you in training for a new job, writing a resume and finding a job.
Programs
The New York State Summer Youth Employment Program introduces youth to the workforce and helps them acquire skills that can be used to improve school performance and future career outcomes.
Service
Find affordable housing; avoid foreclosure, and more helpful tips.
Programs
Learn about the financial aid that can help you finance your education.
Service
Register to vote or update the information you have on file with the Board of Elections or using your driver’s license online through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.
Service
Sign up online as an organ and tissue donor in just a few minutes. By simply filling out the online form, you can save the lives of 8 people through organ donation.
Programs
If you ever served in the United States Armed Forces you are a veteran and you may be eligible for benefits.
Service
The Navigator provides information and resources for caregivers who are taking care of a child who is not biologically their own child.
Information
ACEs are stressful or traumatic events, such as neglect and/or violence. ACEs are strongly related to brain development and a wide range of health problems throughout a person's lifetime.
Service
The Stephen Beck, Jr. Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act of 2014 allows those with disabilities to save for qualified disability expenses without the risk of losing their benefits from assistance programs like SSI and Medicaid.
Information
Consumer protection information on, filing a consumer complaint, energy service companies, home heating, prevention and assistance with identity theft and much more.
Programs
The Lifeline Program provides a monthly discount on landline or wireless phone service to eligible low-income households.
Programs
The FCC’s Affordable Connectivity Program, an extension of the Emergency Broadband Fund, can provide eligible New Yorkers with discounts up to $30/month toward internet service.