Temporary Assistance (TA)

Temporary Assistance (TA) is the term used in New York State for public assistance programs also known as welfare programs. Temporary Assistance offers temporary help for men, women, and children in need while they work towards self-sufficiency. If you are unable to work, can’t find a job, or your job doesn’t pay enough to meet your basic living needs, TA may be able to help you with basic expenses such as heat, rent, etc.

Please note: If you have applied for Temporary Assistance, you will be notified of the outcome within 30 days of the receipt of the application. Before that time, you may reach out to the worker/specialist assigned to your case with questions, thank you.

Purpose: This unit handles new applications for Temporary Assistance (TA).
Typical tasks:
- Accepting your initial application form.
- Conducting initial interview.
- Reviewing changes that happen before approval or denial is made.
- Gathering initial documentation to determine if you are eligible or not.
Contact Number: (315) 435‑2825

Purpose: This unit manages your ongoing Temporary Assistance (TA) case after benefits have been approved.
Typical tasks:
- Handling recertifications and renewal paperwork.
- Reviewing periodic documentation (income, resource reports, school enrollment status for minors, etc.).
- Assisting with case-related updates or issues as your case continues.
Contact Number: (315) 435‑2877

Who is Eligible?

Individuals and families will be subject to income and resource tests. Benefit levels vary depending on household size, available income, and expenses. Please keep in mind that you may NOT be eligible for benefits if you do not meet guidelines set by New York State.

Benefits may be issued as cash or by direct payment to your landlord or utility provider.
Your cash benefits will be available at ATM machines in grocery stores.
In order to access cash benefits, you will need a benefit card and a PIN number.
Benefits over $25.00 are issued semi-monthly.

What to Expect

Eligibility decisions depend on how quickly application requirements are completed and the programs being applied for up to 30 days. Emergencies such as homelessness or domestic violence will be addressed immediately.

If you are a single parent, you may be required to have an interview with the Support Collection Unit.
If, however, you or your child has been threatened, abused, or you fear for the life of you or your child, you do not have to cooperate with the Support Collection Unit. However, you must be able to prove your claim.
If you tell the worker you have a substance abuse problem, or the worker suspects that you might, you may be asked to see a substance abuse counselor. He/She will be able to help you get the treatment you need.
The opportunity to complete a Domestic Violence Screening form. If you tell your caseworker that you are a victim of domestic violence, he/she will give you the opportunity to talk with a domestic violence counselor. You will also be provided with important information about obtaining Domestic Violences Services.

Additional Information

If you receive Public Assistance (PA), SNAP, or Medical Assistance, you may qualify for a free New York State Non-Driver ID. To apply, you must visit a DMV office or apply by mail (online applications are not allowed) and provide proof that your benefits are active.
Accepted proofs include:
- A CNS notice showing approved or active benefits
- A WMS Budget Screen printout with your EBT/CBIC card
- NYC: Budget Letter from ACCESS HRA
- Outside NYC: MyBenefits Budget Sheet printed from mybenefits.ny.gov
Bring original documents to DMV or send photocopies if applying by mail

Effective October 1, 2022
The amount of liquid and non-liquid assets (such as real property, money in a bank account or a vehicle) that an applicant household can own and still qualify for PA will increase from $2,000 to $2,500
The amount of liquid and non-liquid assets the applicant household can currently own and still qualify for PA is $3,750 for any PA applicant households where any household member is age 60 years and older or is disabled
All PA recipient households will have a resource limit of $10,000

The “Spiegel Law” says that if OCDSS-ES is notified by a municipal authority that it has issued a violation against the landlord that cites the existence of conditions that are dangerous to life, health and safety affecting your apartment or building, the Department of Social Services (“DSS”) has the power to stop the tenant’s designated shelter allowance rent payments to the landlord or owner.