SSI

• The Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, program is a federal program that provides monthly monetary benefits to eligible individuals. In order to qualify, an individual must meet the Social Security Administration (SSA) definition of aged, blind or disabled and be considered low income. Unlike the Social Security disability program, the SSI program is not based on the applicant's previous earnings. As of 2011, the maximum monthly SSI benefit for an individual is $674 and for a couple it is $1,011.
  
  

Family Assistance

• The Family Assistance (FA) program in New York provides temporary cash assistance to families that include at least one minor child in the home. The FA program is part of the federal Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, or TANF, program. Most adults are required to participate in work programs in order to receive FA benefits; however, an SSI recipient will likely be excused from that requirement. Lifetime benefits under the FA program are limited to 60 months.
  
  

Safety Net Assistance

• Safety Net Assistance, (SNA), is also a temporary cash assistance program in New York for individuals or families that do not meet the requirements for the FA program. SNA benefits are limited to a maximum of two years during your lifetime; however, if you continue to qualify you may be able to receive non-cash assistance such as a rental voucher.
  
  

Emergency Assistance

• Emergency Assistance is also provided through the Emergency Assistance to Adults program (EEA), the Emergency Assistance to Needy Families program (EAF) and the Emergency Safety Net Assistance program (ESNA). Benefits can be paid for emergencies such as utility arrears, shelter arrears or emergency housing. You do not need to qualify for ongoing cash assistance through either of the cash assistance programs in order to qualify for emergency assistance.
  
  

Amount of Benefits and How to Apply

• The amount of benefits you may qualify for will depend on your household size and your household income. The temporary cash assistance programs are intended to help residents with very low incomes. In order to apply for any of the cash assistance programs, you must complete the application form and return it to your local department of social services office. The form may be downloaded from the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance website or may be filled out at the local office. If you have an emergency, make sure you indicate that when you submit your application. For an emergency situation, you will be interviewed that same day and given a decision before you leave.