TANF Application Instructions


You can apply for Temporary Assistance (TA) in different ways:

Download/Paper Application

Apply through Department of Social Services: You can apply through your local Department of Social Services. Find your
nearest office here

Apply through Department of Social Services: You can apply through your local Department of Social Services. Find your
nearest office here

You will have to download the application and hand it over at your local Department of Social Services. Alternatively, you can send the application to Department of Social Services through regular mail.

Apply through local Job Center: You can also apply through your local Job Center if you live in one of the five boroughs of New York City.

After you have applied

After you have completed the application process, you will get an appointment for the interview within seven working days. Department of Social Services will inform you about the status of your application within 30 days of filing the application. If you are applying for Safety Net Assistance, you will receive update about acceptance or denial of your application within 45 days of filing the application.

You can contact New York Temporary Assistance through their hotline at 1 800 342 3009 to get further information about the program.

New York TANF Office

Address: Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA)
40 North Pearl Street
Albany, NY 12243
(518) 473-1090


Eligibility Requirements

In order to enroll in the program successfully, applicants will have to meet certain requirements:

  • You must be a citizen of U.S or a legal alien. Certain types of immigrants can also apply for the program
  • The program is only available to residents of New York. If you are in another state, you can find a Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program for your state.
  • You must be on very low income
  • You must be either a pregnant woman or responsible for a child under the age of 19 years. Such child should be attending the school regularly.

The individuals looking to apply for Family Assistance (FA) will have to cooperate with Social Services and federal work requirements.

Applicants will also be required to meet federal TANF guidelines in order to receive benefits through the program.

Applicant will also have to ensure that they are providing proof of their income so that their eligibility can be determined. Applicants will have to provide proof of their resources as well. If you are unsure what documents to attach, you can call the helpline or contact the Department of Social Services.