NYC has several rental assistance programs that can help you stay housed or find a new apartment — but most New Yorkers don’t know they exist, let alone how to apply. If you’re behind on rent, facing eviction, or struggling to afford a deposit on a new place, these programs could be the difference between stability and a housing crisis. Here’s a practical breakdown of two key programs: CityFHEPS and the One-Shot Deal.
CityFHEPS: A Long-Term Rental Voucher for New Yorkers at Risk of Homelessness
CityFHEPS — the City Fighting Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement — is one of the most powerful rental assistance tools available to low-income New Yorkers. Unlike a one-time payment, CityFHEPS is an ongoing voucher that pays a portion of your monthly rent for up to five years, anywhere in New York State.
Who Qualifies for CityFHEPS?
Your household income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. You also generally need to be at imminent risk of eviction, currently in a shelter, or facing a housing emergency. If your household is eligible for Cash Assistance, you must be actively receiving it before applying. Any active sanctions on your benefits case must be cleared first — visit your HRA Benefits Access Center to do this.
How to Apply for CityFHEPS
CityFHEPS applications go through Homebase, a network of 20 nonprofit offices across the five boroughs. You don’t apply directly to HRA — Homebase case managers assess your eligibility and guide you through every step.
- Find your nearest Homebase location: nyc.gov — Homebase Locations
- Or call 311 and ask for a referral to Homebase
Once you receive a voucher, you can use it to find an apartment anywhere in New York State. The voucher covers the gap between what you can afford and the actual rent. Your landlord receives the subsidy directly from the city. Renew annually — HRA mails your renewal application five months before your subsidy year ends. Return completed renewals to CityFHEPSRenewals@hra.nyc.gov or by mail.
Questions? Call the DSS OneNumber: 718-557-1399. More info at nyc.gov/site/hra/help/cityfheps.page.
The One-Shot Deal: Emergency Help When You’re Behind on Rent
The One-Shot Deal is a one-time emergency grant from HRA designed to help tenants pay back rent and avoid eviction. It’s aimed at people who’ve fallen behind due to a sudden hardship — job loss, medical emergency, family crisis — but have income and can show they can afford rent going forward.
Who Qualifies for the One-Shot Deal?
- You have a current lease, a rent-stabilized unit, or a written agreement with your landlord to remain in your home
- You’ve fallen behind on rent due to a temporary hardship
- You have enough income — or a third-party guarantor who does — to pay rent going forward
People receiving SSI generally do not have to repay the grant. Most others will enter a repayment agreement with HRA for some or all of the funds. (Source: Legal Aid NYC)
How to Apply for the One-Shot Deal
- Apply online at access.nyc.gov — One-Shot Deal or visit your nearest HRA Benefits Access Center in person
- Bring your lease, proof of income, and documentation of your hardship to your required interview
- HRA must process your request within 30 days — most emergency cases move faster
For free help preparing your application, contact Legal Aid NYC or Legal Services NYC. Both organizations can help you build a strong application and advocate on your behalf if HRA denies your request.
Other Rental Assistance Resources in NYC
- ACCESS NYC: Check eligibility for all city benefits at access.nyc.gov
- NYC 311: Call or text 311 to be connected with housing assistance navigators
- HRA Rent Back on Track page: nyc.gov — Rent Back on Track
- NY Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG): Comprehensive rental assistance FAQ at nylag.org
Action Steps: What to Do Right Now
If you’re behind on rent or worried about eviction, don’t wait until you’re standing in housing court. Here’s what to do today:
- Call 311 and ask about Homebase locations near you and CityFHEPS eligibility
- Apply for the One-Shot Deal via ACCESS HRA if you have back rent and can demonstrate a path to paying going forward: access.nyc.gov
- Contact a free legal provider — Legal Aid NYC or Legal Services NYC — to help you apply, appeal, or navigate obstacles
- If you’re already in eviction proceedings, inform the housing court judge that you’ve applied for emergency assistance — the court may grant additional time
You have options. NYC has programs built for exactly this moment. The key is knowing they exist — and moving quickly.
