How to Apply for TANF in New York
New York doesn't administer TANF as one statewide cash program — it splits Temporary Assistance (TA) into Family Assistance (FA), which runs under federal TANF rules and carries the standard 60-month lifetime limit, and Safety Net Assistance (SNA), a state/locally funded program for single adults, childless couples, and others who don't qualify for FA. Applications are handled locally by each county's department of social services (or NYC's Job Centers) rather than through a single state office, though myBenefits.ny.gov offers a statewide starting point.
This site is an independent, non-government TANF directory and isn't affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by any state or federal government agency. Always verify details directly with the official agency before visiting or applying.
Quick Answer
In New York, you apply for TANF through Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, online or by phone. New York counties generally aim to decide Family Assistance (New York's TANF-funded program) applications within 30 days; the state's separate, non-federally-funded Safety Net Assistance program allows up to 45 days.
What You'll Need
- Social Security numbers for household members
- Proof of New York residency
- Proof of household income and resources
- Housing situation and expense information
- Information on any other benefits currently received
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1
Check eligibility and start online at myBenefits.ny.gov
Use the myBenefits portal to screen your eligibility and begin an application for Temporary Assistance.
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2
Or apply in person
Visit your local department of social services, or in New York City, a Job Center.
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3
Or apply in writing
Print the Temporary Assistance application form and mail or fax it to your local department of social services.
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4
Contact your local district immediately for emergencies
If you have an urgent need (eviction, no food, utility shutoff, homelessness, or domestic violence), contact your local department of social services right away — you can be interviewed and told the decision on your emergency request the same day.
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Cooperate with program requirements
Be ready for drug/alcohol screening and assessment, cooperation with child support enforcement, and work-related activities like job search, which are conditions of eligibility for both FA and SNA.
Submit Your Application
Need help before your application is processed?
New York counties generally aim to decide Family Assistance (New York's TANF-funded program) applications within 30 days; the state's separate, non-federally-funded Safety Net Assistance program allows up to 45 days. If your family needs money sooner, most states offer a faster, one-time emergency payment.
See emergency & one-time assistance →Compare Other States
TANF rules, income limits, and benefit amounts are set state by state. These share New York's census region — useful if you're moving, or comparing how another state runs the same program.
Helpful Guides
TANF Eligibility & Frequently Asked Questions
Income limits, time limits, and work requirements, answered in plain language.
Learn more →How Much Does TANF Pay? Benefit Amounts Explained
How your payment is calculated, a real worked example, and how the amount scales by family size.
Learn more →TANF Income Limits by State
See each state's own income limit and maximum monthly benefit, side by side.
Learn more →How to Use Your TANF EBT Card
How to withdraw cash, avoid ATM fees, and what to do if your card is lost or stolen.
Learn more →TANF Work Requirements Explained
Hours, activities, exemptions, and how strictly states actually enforce this.
Learn more →What Is TANF?
What the program covers, who runs it, and how it varies by state.
Learn more →TANF Kinship Care & Relative Caregiver Benefits
Child-only TANF grants for grandparents and relatives raising a child — and how they differ from a regular case.
Learn more →TANF vs. SNAP: Is TANF the Same as Food Stamps?
How the two programs differ, and whether you can get both.
Learn more →