If you are behind on rent or facing eviction because of financial hardship, New York City and New York State have emergency rental assistance programs that can pay back rent and help you stay housed. This guide explains what programs currently exist, who qualifies, and how to access help as quickly as possible.
Current NYC Emergency Rental Assistance Programs
Emergency rental assistance in New York has evolved significantly since 2021. The federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) has largely concluded its initial funding, but several ongoing programs remain available to NYC tenants in need.
1. CityFHEPS (City Fighting Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement)
CityFHEPS is NYC’s ongoing rental voucher program for low-income tenants at risk of or experiencing homelessness. It provides ongoing rental subsidy — not a one-time payment — for income-eligible households. If you are facing eviction, in shelter, or at imminent risk of homelessness, CityFHEPS may be the most substantial help available. See our complete CityFHEPS guide for full details on eligibility and how to apply.
2. One Shot Deal (Emergency Assistance Grants)
NYC HRA’s One Shot Deal program provides one-time emergency cash assistance to prevent eviction or restore housing for individuals and families facing a temporary crisis. Unlike CityFHEPS, One Shot Deal is a one-time grant rather than an ongoing subsidy.
To qualify, you must:
- Be a NYC resident
- Be facing eviction, displacement, or a housing emergency
- Have a verifiable reason for the emergency (job loss, medical crisis, domestic violence, unexpected expense)
- Demonstrate that you can maintain housing going forward once the emergency is resolved
- Not be receiving ongoing Public Assistance (though exceptions apply)
One Shot Deal can pay back rent, security deposits, or moving costs. Apply at your local HRA Job Center or Benefits Access Center. Bring documentation of your housing emergency, lease, and proof of income.
3. New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) Programs
New York State administers several assistance streams through OTDA including Emergency Assistance to Families (EAF) and Emergency Assistance to Adults (EAA). These programs can provide emergency rental assistance for those who meet income and need criteria. Contact HRA (311) or visit nyc.gov/hra to determine which state programs you may qualify for.
4. Homebase Program
NYC’s Homebase program is a community-based homelessness prevention initiative that provides case management, rental assistance, and other services to households at risk of shelter entry. Homebase can pay back rent, broker fees, utility arrears, and other costs. Find your local Homebase provider at nyc.gov/dhs or call 311 and ask for “homelessness prevention.”
What to Do Right Now If You Are Behind on Rent
- Do not ignore housing court papers. If you’ve received a nonpayment petition, respond and appear. Your Right to Counsel attorney can connect you to rental assistance programs while the case is active.
- Contact your landlord in writing to explain your situation and ask about a payment plan. Get any agreement in writing.
- Call 311 and ask for emergency rental assistance — operators can refer you to the programs you are most likely to qualify for based on your situation.
- Contact your local Homebase provider immediately — Homebase is specifically designed for arrears prevention before a housing crisis becomes a shelter entry.
- Apply for CityFHEPS if you are income-eligible and at risk of shelter entry or eviction — this provides ongoing subsidy, not just a one-time payment.
- Get a free attorney through Right to Counsel if you have a housing court case. Attorneys can identify and apply for programs on your behalf while negotiating with your landlord.
Documents to Gather Before Applying
- Current lease and any prior leases
- A rent ledger or statement from your landlord showing the amount owed
- Any housing court papers (Notice of Petition, Petition)
- Proof of income for all household members
- Documentation of the hardship (termination letter, medical bills, etc.)
- Photo ID and proof of NYC residency
Nonprofit and Community Resources
In addition to government programs, several nonprofits operate emergency rental assistance funds in NYC:
- Catholic Charities NYC: (212) 419-3700 — emergency financial assistance
- United Way of New York City: unitedwaynyc.org
- Robin Hood Foundation: robinhood.org — funds community partners providing direct assistance
- The Door: (212) 941-9090 — services for young adults including housing assistance
- BronxWorks: (718) 588-6800 — eviction prevention and benefits navigation in the Bronx
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ERAP still accepting applications in NYC?
The original federal ERAP program has expended its initial funding in New York. However, some state and local programs continue. Check with HRA (311) or nyc.gov/hra for the most current status of state-funded rental assistance availability.
My landlord won’t participate in rental assistance programs. What can I do?
Some programs pay tenants directly, or can work around landlord reluctance. An attorney from Legal Aid Society or Legal Services NYC can help negotiate with your landlord and identify programs that don’t require landlord participation. NYC law also prohibits landlords from discriminating based on source of income in most cases.
Can I get rental assistance even if I have a housing court case?
Yes — and having an active court case can actually make you a priority for some programs. Your Right to Counsel attorney can apply for assistance on your behalf and negotiate a stipulation that resolves the court case once funds are secured.
How much back rent can these programs cover?
It varies by program. One Shot Deal covers the specific amount needed to resolve the immediate crisis. CityFHEPS is an ongoing subsidy rather than a lump-sum payment. Homebase can cover arrears up to program limits. Contact HRA or a legal aid organization to identify which program fits your specific arrears amount and situation.
