What is CityFHEPS: CityFHEPS (City Fighting Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement) is a New York City rental assistance program that pays part of your monthly rent for up to 5 years. It’s for people who are at risk of eviction or homelessness. You apply through a Homebase office — call 311 or visit nyc.gov/site/hra/help/homebase.page to find the one nearest you.
CityFHEPS: NYC’s Rental Assistance Program Most People Have Never Heard Of
If you’re struggling to pay rent, facing eviction, or living in a shelter and trying to find housing, CityFHEPS is one of the most significant resources available to you in New York City — and one of the least known.
The program pays a monthly rental subsidy directly to your landlord, covering the difference between what you can afford to pay and the program’s payment standard for your apartment size. It can last up to 5 years, and it can be used anywhere in New York State — not just within the five boroughs.
Who Qualifies for CityFHEPS
To be eligible, your household generally must:
- Have a gross income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level
- Be at risk of eviction (facing a housing court case, behind on rent, or in danger of losing housing) OR currently in a shelter
- If eligible for Cash Assistance, be receiving it (or apply for it as part of the process)
There are two versions: CityFHEPS to Stay (if you want to remain in your current apartment) and CityFHEPS to Move (if you need to find a new apartment). Your Homebase caseworker helps determine which applies to you.
How Much Does CityFHEPS Pay?
Payment standards are based on household size and the number of bedrooms needed (generally one bedroom per every two people). The program pays up to the maximum rent for your apartment size based on the NYC Housing Authority’s Section 8 payment standards for 2026. Your contribution is based on your income — if you have income, you pay a portion and CityFHEPS covers the rest up to the standard.
One important note: CityFHEPS covers rent only, not additional building fees for amenities or services.
How to Apply
Step 1: Find your nearest Homebase office at nyc.gov/site/hra/help/homebase.page or call 311. There are more than 20 Homebase offices across the five boroughs.
Step 2: Contact the office — walk in, call, or request an appointment. Be aware that Homebase offices are often very busy. Some have limited walk-in slots and waitlists for appointments. Don’t give up if you can’t get in immediately.
Step 3: A caseworker will assess your eligibility, help you apply for any other benefits you qualify for, and work with you through the CityFHEPS process. Only DSS (the Department of Social Services) can officially determine eligibility — the Homebase caseworker submits everything on your behalf.
If you’re currently in a shelter, your shelter case manager or housing specialist can also start the CityFHEPS process for you directly.
Your Rights as a CityFHEPS Voucher Holder
In New York City, it is illegal for a landlord to refuse to rent to you because you have a CityFHEPS voucher. This is called source-of-income discrimination and it violates NYC law. If a landlord or broker refuses to work with you because of your voucher, report it to the NYC Commission on Human Rights at 212-416-0197 or HRA’s Source of Income discrimination team at 929-221-6576 or soi@dss.nyc.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CityFHEPS and who is it for?
CityFHEPS is NYC’s rental assistance program for people at risk of eviction or homelessness with incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. It pays part of your monthly rent for up to 5 years, anywhere in New York State.
How do I apply for CityFHEPS?
Contact a Homebase office — find locations at nyc.gov/site/hra/help/homebase.page or call 311. If you’re in a shelter, your case manager can apply on your behalf.
Can my landlord refuse to accept my CityFHEPS voucher?
No. In NYC, refusing a tenant because of a CityFHEPS or other rental voucher is illegal source-of-income discrimination. Report violations to the NYC Commission on Human Rights at 212-416-0197.
How long does CityFHEPS last?
Up to 5 years, with annual renewals. Your caseworker will review your eligibility each year. As long as you still need the assistance and meet the requirements, you can continue to receive it.
Can CityFHEPS be used outside NYC?
Yes. Since 2023, CityFHEPS can be used to rent housing anywhere in New York State, not just within the five boroughs.
