Met Council Coronavirus Resource Center
If you have lost your job or income because of Coronavirus, please see the list of resources below that can assist you during these hard times:
+ FILE FOR UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE BENEFITS
Do you need to file for Unemployment Insurance Benefits?
New York State Department of Labor
If you lost your job, you may be eligible for up to $504 per week in Unemployment Insurance Benefits (UIB) once approved. Because of Coronavirus, New York State has waived the previously required 7 day waiting period before filing for benefits. You can file for benefits online or over the phone.
How to File a New Claim for UIB
You can file a new claim by clicking here to file online: https://unemployment.labor.ny.gov/login
The day you can file a new claim is based on the first letter of your last name:
- A-F can file with the above link on Mondays
- G-N can file with the above link on Tuesdays
- O-Z can file with the above link on Wednesdays
If you miss the day for filing, you can file using the same link Thursdays-Sundays
If you previously filed a claim, click here for more information on your claim: labor.ny.gov/signin
If You Have a Question About a Claim
If you have a question about a claim you have filed or about filing a claim, you can call 1-888-209-8124 during the following hours:
- Monday through Friday, 8 am to 7:30 pm, Saturday and Sunday, 7:30 am to 8:00 pm.
If You Have a Question About Your Online Account
If you have a question about your online account, are having problems with logging in, updating your personal information or need to reset your password, you can call 1-800-833-3000.
If You Have Exhausted Your Benefit
If you receiving UIB before and have exhausted your benefit, please see below how you may apply for UIB again:
- If your benefit year expired after July 1, 2019, you will need to file a new claim to receive 13 additional weeks of benefits. You will receive a letter in the mail from the NYS DOL with more details.
- If your benefit year has not expired, but you exhausted your 26 weeks of benefits, you will receive a letter from NYS DOL advising you to begin certifying to receive the additional 13 weeks of benefits.
- If your benefit year has not expired, but you stopped claiming benefits before your 26 weeks were up (for example, if you went back to work), simply begin certifying for benefits again to start receiving UI benefits.
More information on How to File for Unemployment Income Benefits
Those filing a claim are encouraged to apply online by going to NY.GOV ID. You can file a claim online during the following hours:
- Monday – Thursday from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm (Eastern Time)
- Friday from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm
- Saturday – all day
- Sunday until 7 pm
You can also apply by phone by calling the Telephone Claim Center to file a claim by calling 1-888-209-8124
- Monday through Friday, 8 am to 7:30 pm.
- Saturday and Sunday, 7:30 am to 8:00 pm.
Translation services are available when filing by phone in English, Spanish, Russian, Cantonese, Mandarin, Creole, and Korean.
Personal Identification Number (PIN)
When you file, you will need your PIN (Personal Identification Number).
If you have never filed a claim for benefits in New York State, you must create a PIN. This is a four-digit number that you will need to keep and are encouraged to keep safe and confidential.
Information and documentation you will need to file your claim by phone and online:
- Your Social Security number
- Your driver license or Motor Vehicle ID card number (if you have either one)
- Your complete mailing address and zip code
- A phone number where we can reach you from 8 am - 5 pm, Monday –Friday
- Your Alien Registration card number (if you are not a U.S. Citizen and have a card)
- Names and addresses of all your employers for the last 18 months, including those in other states
- Employer Registration number or Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) of your most recent employer (FEIN is on your W-2 forms)
- Your copies of forms SF8 and SF50, if you were a federal employee
- Your most recent separation form (DD 214), for military service
Note that you can file a claim without all of these documents. However, missing information can delay your first payment.
We encourage you to make or print copies of what you submit online. If you cannot print or make a copy, please write down the online application and confirmation information you are provided when you apply.
For direct deposit of your weekly benefit income, you will need to provide your bank routing and checking account information (available by looking at a copy of a check from your checking account or obtaining this information through your online banking account).
If You Need Assistance in Filing a Claim
If you have a disability and need help to file your claim online, you may allow another person to aid you.
- You must be present each time they help you and use your PIN.
- You will be held accountable for the actions of your helper.
- You may be subject to penalties, including forfeiture of benefits, if you are not present when your helper assists you.
Callers may ask a friend or relative to help with phone claims if they:
- Have problems with hearing or speech, or
- Have difficulty using the phone for any reason.
If You Are Hearing Impaired
If you are hearing impaired, you may have a helper call the telephone claims center at 1-888-783-1370 to assist you during a phone call.
To make a TTY/TDD phone call, you may contact a relay operator first at 1-800-662-1220, and ask the operator to call the Telephone Claims Center at 1-888-783-1370
Additional Information
For answers to Frequently Asked Questions and additional information about filing for Unemployment Income Benefits, please see these sites below:
For common questions about UI, go to the FAQs page.
If you still have questions about UI or your claim, sign in with your NY.GOV ID and click on "Messages".
For questions re: using NY.GOV ID: NY.GOV ID: Helpful Short Guides and Frequently Asked Questions
For recorded, general information about Unemployment Income, call the Tel-Service line at (888) 581-5812 and choose Option 1 on the main menu.
Enhanced Unemployment Insurance Benefits and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance
The Federal CARES act was signed into law on March 27, 2020 and provides enhanced Unemployment Insurance Benefits and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance for New Yorkers. The program will pay workers $600 a week on top of the sum people receive in their state-level unemployment claim from April 5, 2020 until July 31, 2020. You may also be eligible for an additional 13 weeks of UIB benefits if you are still unemployed after 26 weeks.
The extra $600 payment will last for up to four months, covering weeks of unemployment ending July 31, 2020.
If you are already approved for New York State UI benefits, your benefits will be updated automatically.
If you are self-employed, you may now file for Unemployment Insurance benefits online. Please review the Guidance for Self Employed Individuals.
Please see above for instructions on how to file a claim.
Denials of Unemployment Income Benefit and Appeals Process
Note: On March 16, 2020, all unemployment insurance hearings that were scheduled for the next two weeks were cancelled due to the Coronavirus pandemic. The hearings will be rescheduled and you will be notified with the new date and time. More information will be provided as it becomes available from the NYS Unemployment Insurance Appeal Board.
You have the right to appeal a denial decision on your Unemployment Income. If you are denied, you will receive a document in the mail called a Notice of Determination. It will give the reason why you are denied, how you can re-qualify for benefits, and how to appeal the decision by asking for a hearing.
You can request a hearing before a judge via online or mailing/faxing in a form.
To request a hearing online, go to www.labor.ny.gov/signin and sign in to your NY.Gov account. Go to “Go to My Online Forms” and under the “Forms available for Filing” menu, select the Claimant Request for Hearing form. This form is also available by clicking here https://labor.ny.gov/formsdocs/ui/LO435.pdf.
Once this form is completed you will mail it to:
NYS Dept of Labor, PO Box 15131, Albany, NY 12212-5131
You can also fax it to: 518-457-9378
You have 30 days to file a request for a hearing.
Important information to include on your request for a hearing: Your Social Security number and the reason you disagree with the denial decision.
You will be notified after your request has been processed of the date, time, and place of the hearing.
What happens during a hearing once my request has been processed:
The hearing will determine if the decision denying your Unemployment Income will remain effective or if a judge will determine you are eligible for benefits.
Before the hearing, you will receive information about the hearing procedure and your rights for a hearing. You can also contact the Telephone Claims Center at (888) 209-8124 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday for information. There is also a Hearing Preparation Video available to watch here which may be helpful: uiappeals.ny.gov/.
You have the right to inspect the file on your case prior to the hearing.
You can bring documentation supporting why you believe you are eligible for Unemployment Income to the hearing. This can include:
- Documents you have received from the Department of Labor.
- Documents or other evidence that will support your position, such as contracts, letters, pay stubs, arbitration decisions, collective bargaining agreements, employee handbooks or manuals, doctors' notes, and photographs.
Ask the judge to accept these documents for the record of your hearing. In deciding your case, the judge can consider only those documents or other pieces of evidence which have been identified at the hearing, reviewed by the other side, and accepted into the record.
Your employer can ask the judge to accept evidence and the judge can put documents from your file into the record.
You have the right to look at any evidence before the judge accepts it for the record.
You are allowed to bring a lawyer and witnesses with you to a hearing, if you choose.
You can request a delay of the hearing for the following reasons:
- you have been called for jury duty;
- you have not had time to meet with your lawyer or representative; or
- you need more time to gather evidence.
If possible, ask for an adjournment ahead of time by writing to or calling on the Administrative Law Judge Section. If a delay is not granted in advance, you must go to your hearing to request a delay in person or to testify if a delay is not granted. If you cannot appear in person, you may send a representative along with a signed explanation as to why you cannot attend.
If you miss the date of your hearing:
The judge will hold the hearing without you and will decide your case without hearing your side.
If you miss a hearing for a good reason (for example, you had a medical emergency), you may apply to reopen the judge's decision by writing to NYS Department of Labor, P.O. Box 15126, Albany, NY 12212-5126. You will need to give the reason(s) why you did not appear. If the judge finds that you had a good reason, the judge will reopen the case.
You will learn about the judge’s decision as soon as possible following the hearing and the decision will be mailed to you. If you do not receive a decision in the mail within 3 weeks, contact the Telephone Claims Center number listed above. On your notice of hearing, there is also an Administrative Law Judge section with a phone number you can call as well.
If you are approved following the hearing for Unemployment Income and your Employer appeals the decision, the Appeal Board will review their appeal. If the Appeal Board decides in favor of your Employer, you may be required to repay any benefits you received during the time frame of the appeal. If you disagree with the appeal, you have the right to submit a written statement stating you do not agree with your Employer.
If the hearing decision upholds your denial, you will receive a notification regarding if you need to repay any benefits you may have received during the hearing process.
You have the right to appeal a hearing decision by contacting the Appellate Division of the State Supreme Court, Third Department. A written appeal must be made to the Appeal Board within 30 days of the date on which the decision was mailed. Mail your appeal to UI Appeal Board, P.O. Box 15126, Albany, NY 12212-5126.
You will be given further instructions once your appeal is received by the Appeal Board.
+ ECONOMIC IMPACT PAYMENTS
Will I receive an economic impact payment check?
The Federal CARES act was signed into law on March 27, 2020 and provides economic impact payments of $1,200 for most adults and an additional payment of $500 for every qualifying child age 16 or under. Single adults with Social Security numbers who have an adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less will receive the full amount. Married couples with no children earning $150,000 or less will receive a total of $2,400. Taxpayers filing as head of household will get the full payment if they earned $112,500 or less.
The payment decreases until it stops for single people earning $99,000 or married people with no children that earn $198,000. You cannot receive the payment if someone claims you as a dependent. Everyone must have a valid Social Security number to be eligible. There is an exception for members of the military.
The vast majority of people do NOT need to take any action. The IRS will calculate and automatically send the payment to those eligible.
For people who have already filed their 2019 tax returns, the IRS will use this information to calculate the payment amount. For those who have not yet filed their return for 2019, the IRS will use information from their 2018 tax filing to calculate the payment. The economic impact payment will be deposited directly into the same banking account reflected on the return filed.
If you have not filed tax returns recently, the IRS recommends anyone with a tax filing obligation who has not yet filed a tax return for 2018 or 2019 to file as soon as they can to receive an economic impact payment. Taxpayers should include direct deposit banking information on the return.
If you do not file taxes, use the "Non-Filers: Enter Your Payment Info Here" IRS application to provide simple information so you can get your payment.
The following who typically DO NOT file a tax return will automatically get the $1,200 payment:
- Recipients of Social Security retirement, disability (SSDI), survivor benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI);
- Recipients of Veterans Affairs benefits; and
- Recipients of Railroad Retirement and Survivor Benefits.
Special Note: Social Security retirement, survivors, and disability insurance beneficiaries with dependent children and who DID NOT file 2018 or 2019 taxes need to act by Wednesday, April 22, in order to receive additional payments for their eligible children quickly to claim the $500 payment per child. Use the "Non-Filers: Enter Your Payment Info Here" IRS application to provide simple information so you can get your payment.
Direct deposits are expected to begin by April 17, followed by checks in the mail. You will get a paper notice in the mail no later than a few weeks after your payment has been disbursed. That notice will contain information about where the payment ended up and in what form it was made. If you could not locate the payment at that point, it would be time to contact the IRS using the information on the notice.
The economic impact payments will be available throughout the rest of 2020.
Treasury has developed a web-based portal for individuals to provide their banking information to the IRS online, so that individuals can receive payments immediately as opposed to checks in the mail. For more information please visit the IRS website here: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments
If you require assistance with filing your taxes, please contact a Met Council representative for Met Council’s Free Tax Prep Program assistance.
Where is my stimulus payment?
If you have not received your stimulus payment and want to know your status, you can learn more by going here:
https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment You can also call the IRS Economic Impact Payment Information Tel: 800-919-9835
This is the planned weekly schedule for the IRS to mail stimulus checks based on annual adjusted gross income, as first reported by Forbes. The date listed is the last day of the week for the week the check can be expected to arrive. The IRS may change this schedule.
- Less than $10,000: April 24
- $10,001 - $20,000: May 1
- $20,001 - $30,000: May 8
- $30,001 - $40,000: May 15
- $40,001 - $50,000: May 22
- $50,001 - $60,000: May 29
- $60,001 - $70,000: June 5
- $70,001 - $80,000: June 12
- $80,001 - $90,000: June 19
- $90,001 - $100,000: June 26
- $100,001 - $110,000: July 3
- $110,001 - $120,000: July 10
- $120,001 - $130,000: July 17
- $130,001- $140,000: July 24
- $140,001 - $150,000: July 31
- $150,001 - $160,000: August 7
- $160,001 - $170,000: August 14
- $170,001 - $180,000: August 21
- $180,001 - $190,000: August 28
- $190,001 - $198,000: September 4
- All remaining checks: September 11
+ EMERGENCY FOOD/FOOD STAMPS (SNAP)
Do you require emergency food assistance?
Emergency Food
If you need emergency food assistance, call the Emergency Food Hotline at 866-888-8777 or 311 to find a local pantry or kitchen. There is no income limit for emergency food. Learn more about Emergency food.
NYC Food Delivery Assistance
The City of New York is providing assistance to New Yorkers during the Coronavirus crisis by delivering meals to those who cannot access food themselves. Learn more at NYC.gov/getfood.
NYC Department of Education Food Distribution - Food Hubs
Beginning Friday, April 3rd, the NYC DOE food hubs will also distribute grab-and-go meals for adults.
Visit the NYC DOE website to search for a food hub and see menus, and visit CFA for an interactive map and full list of food hubs. (Please note: The food hubs may change over time. We will keep the list updated.) Or text "FOOD" or "COMIDA" to 877-877.
Meals are served from 7:30 AM - 1:30 PM
- 7:30 AM - 11:30 AM to children and families
- 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM to adults
No registration, ID, or documentation is needed.
Three meals are provided regardless of time of service.
Parents and guardians can retrieve meals for their children, who do not need to be present.
Families with disabled students with mobility limitations will have meals delivered through a special arrangement made between DOE and DoorDash.
Kosher Grab and Go Meal Options
The kosher food distribution will be available at all locations below:
People of any age can pick up three daily meals at once, with no registration or ID required. Parents and guardians may pick up meals for their children.
Meals are served from 7:30 AM - 1:30 PM
- 7:30 AM - 11:30 AM to children and families
- 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM to adults
The meals are being catered by Borenstein Caterers under the brand name of “Regal-Glatt,” under the hechsher of Volove Kashrus – Rabbi N.E. Teitelbaum of Congregation Nachlas Avos Volove.
Pickup locations:
Williamsburg
P.S./I.S. 157 The Benjamin Franklin Health & Science Academy 300 Willoughby Avenue, 11205
PS 132 The Conselyea School 320 Manhattan Avenue, 11211
PS 257 John F Hylan 60 Cook Street, 11206
Boro Park
P.S. 192 – 4715 18 Avenue, Brooklyn 11204
P.S. 160 - 5105 Fort Hamilton Parkway, Brooklyn 11219
Midwood
P.S. 197 – 1599 East 22 Street, Brooklyn 11210
Crown Heights
P.S. 289 – 900 St Marks Avenue, Brooklyn 11213
P.S. 221 - 791 Empire Blvd, Brooklyn 11213
Far Rockaway
P.S. 197 – 825 Hicksville Road, Queens 11691
P.S. 253 – 1307 Central Avenue, Queens 11691
Flushing
P.S. 164 138-01 77 Avenue, 11367
Forest Hills
Forest Hills High School 67-01 110 Street, 11375
Staten Island
P.S. 54 - 1060 Willowbrook Rd, Staten Island 10314
Manhattan
P.S. 134 - 293 East Broadway, Manhattan, 10002 (Lower East Side)
P.S. 048 P.O. Michael J Buczek - 4360-78 Broadway, Manhattan (Washington Heights) 10033
Bronx
P.S. 24 Spuyten Duyvil 660 West 236 Street, 10463 (Riverdale)
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
If you are a household of 4 that earns less than $2,790 gross per month, your household may be eligible for SNAP.
Clients may apply for SNAP via Access HRA’s website: accesshra.nyc.gov or with the Access HRA mobile. (Income requirements apply).
To help stop the spread of Coronavirus, as of March 24, HRA has consolidated their HRA Job, SNAP, and Medicaid Center locations.
- As a result of these consolidations, we are advising New Yorkers to apply for public benefits online at ACCESS HRA in order to prevent unnecessary visits to an HRA center.
- For clients who can not or do not want to apply online, a list of Job, SNAP, and Medicaid center locations that will remain open can be found here: Job, SNAP, Medicaid.
You may also contact Met Council’s Benefits Access Helpline at 212-453-9532 to be connected with a SNAP Specialist for assistance.
SNAP Benefits Online
You can now use your Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to shop online for fresh produce and groceries and have them delivered. Use your EBT card at these online stores in NYC:
Note: You can’t use SNAP benefits to pay delivery fees. Be sure to confirm that an online store delivers to your home address. Learn more from HRA.
SNAP Recertifications
As a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, the NYS OTDA is automatically extending certain TA/MA/SNAP and SNAP only recertifications scheduled to expire in March, April and May for a period of three (3) months. For more information, please review the Notice to All Recipients.
Emergency SNAP Allotments
NYS has approved Emergency SNAP Allotments in response to Coronavirus. In April households in receipt of SNAP Benefits will receive two supplements covering March and April benefits getting households up to the maximum allotment based on household size. See chart below. These SNAP Benefits will be issued over a period of two weeks after the receipt of April’s benefits from 4/11 through 4/18 and from 4/21 through 4/25.
For more information contact Met Council’s Benefits Assistance Hotline 212-453-9532
Pandemic EBT
Do you have children between grades K-12 that participate in Free or Reduce School meals and are having hard times replacing meals your child would have received at school?
To assist your household during these challenging times there is Pandemic EBT (PEBT) and you might be eligible for $420 per child for food purchases.
How Does Pandemic EBT Work?
For Household containing children participate in school Meals during the months of March – June 2020 a cash value benefit of $420 for purchasing food for home preparation and consumption will be issued per child on an EBT or Medicaid Card.
How Do I Use PEBT Card?
Benefits can be used at any Super Market, Bodega, Farmers Market that takes the EBT card.
To perform purchases the PEBT Card works like a debit card, all that is required is a PIN Number.
When Will I get PEBT?
For households enrolled in SNAP and Public Assistance – May 19th you will receive $193 and June 19th you will receive $227 of benefits added to current EBT cards for food purchases.
Households enrolled in Medicaid - Last 2 weeks of June - $420 in benefits per child will be added to the Medicaid card and a PIN number will be assigned.
Households not enrolled in SNAP, Public Assistance or Medicaid a PEBT card will be issued and mailed to the household for each child in July and August.
See State FAQ link for guidance: https://otda.ny.gov/SNAP-COVID-19/Frequently-Asked-Questions-Pandemic-EBT.pdf
For more information please contact Met Council’s Benefits Access Helpline at 212 453-9532, Mondays – Thursday 9 am – 5 pm and Fridays 9 am – 2 pm.
Food Bank for New York City
You can find additional emergency food resources with the Food Bank for New York City Food Program Locator here: https://www.foodbanknyc.org/get-help/ (No income requirements).
New York City Food Policy Center
The New York Food Policy Center is offering Coronavirus NYC Neighborhood Food Resource Guides here: https://www.nycfoodpolicy.org/coronavirus-nyc-food-reports/?utm_source=Coronavirus+NYC+Neighborhood+Food+Resource+Guides&utm_campaign=Food+Tech+&utm_medium=email
WIC COIVD-19 Updates
WIC on-site appointments are limited however many NYS WIC offices are available to provide services by phone for appointments.
NYS WIC is not suspending any eWIC cards, although there are scams online stating this. Benefits are valid through your family’s “Benefits Valid Through” date.
You can check your WIC benefit balance by:
- Checking WIC2Go, the mobile app
- Checking your last store receipt
- Visiting your store’s customer service desk
- Calling the eWIC card Customer Service at 844-540-3031
- Visiting https://www.wicconnect.com
For questions about food or formula availability, visit the vendor management agency to find locations in your area for help.
+ HOUSING HELP
Do you require assistance with your rent or mortgage?
If you are behind in your rent:
All eviction cases and warrants of eviction for not paying rent are suspended across New York State. There is an eviction moratorium in New York State as of March 20, 2020. On June 18, the courts issued a new order clarifying that the universal eviction moratorium continues to still be in place until further notice, and at least until July 7, 2020. On July 6th, the governor extended the eviction moratorium for an additional 30 days, through August 5th. The moratorium applies to all pre-existing orders. They have been suspended and tenants cannot be evicted.
In NYC, all city marshals have been notified that they can not execute any pre-existing warrants.
Tenants do not have to appear for a court date while the moratorium remains in effect, and they can’t be penalized for not showing up.
As of June 22, landlords could start paperwork for new evictions cases but by mail only and only for cases where the landlord states the tenant has fallen behind in rent for reasons other than financial hardship due to the pandemic. The courts are closed to in person hearings. Tenants can initiate cases for repairs and illegal lockouts either electronically or in person.
If a tenant entered into an agreement in court prior to the moratorium that required them to pay rent by a certain date and they can no longer make that payment, the landlord cannot call the marshal/sheriff/law enforcement agency to evict a tenant as long as the moratorium is in effect. Once the moratorium is lifted, they will be able to move forward with eviction.
The order does not apply to rent demands. Landlords can still send letters and rent demands for any rent they claim a tenant owes during this time.
All tenants are entitled to due process; only a judge can evict a tenant. Because all evictions are suspended during this moratorium, a landlord cannot evict someone.
Vacate orders are issued when an apartment is dangerous or illegal, and only city agencies can issue them. Landlords are not legally empowered to directly issue vacate orders.
Tenants can still go to housing court for repairs. Emergency repairs for NYC tenants include heat and hot water cases, vacates, access for heat and hot water, and other major emergencies, lead cases with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and/or violations for lead remediation.
For more information and answers to some frequently asked questions, you can access additional information through here and here.
Security Deposits
Landlords, as long as you the tenant agree, are allowed to use your security deposit or any interest earned from your security deposit, towards any rent you owe or a future payment for rent. You and your landlord must have an agreement in written for your landlord to be able to use your security deposit in this way. An email to your landlord is an agreement in writing.
If you are unemployed and eligible for unemployment insurance or other unemployment programs or facing financial hardship in paying your rent due to being impacted by COVID 19, your landlord is required to use your security deposit for payment of your rent.
When a security deposit is used to pay for rent, you, the tenant, are required to begin repaying your landlord the security deposit starting 90 days from when the deposit was used. You will need to repay your landlord 1/12 of the amount of your deposit each month, until the security deposit amount has been repaid in full. If you have security deposit insurance this may be able to help repay your security deposit to your landlord. Please note that security deposit insurance is not the same as renters insurance. If you do have security deposit insurance, your landlord is required to accept the payment provided through the insurance company instead of you repaying the security deposit.
Late Fees
This Executive Order prevents landlords from charging a late fee for late payments of rent from March 20,2020 to August 20,2020. This applies to residental rent only and not to commercial rent payments. You do not have to have been negatively impacted by COVID 19 for this to apply. You cannot be charged a late fee for payment of residential rent during these dates.
Changes to the Eviction Moratorium
No new eviction filings for renters or foreclosure filings can occur for a 60 day extension from June 20 to August 20,2020. If you were facing an eviction and in Housing Court or facing foreclosure and had a judgement or Marshals Notice prior to the moratorium put into effect in March, your case may be able to move forward after June 20, unless you are unemployed and eligible for Unemployment Insurance or are facing financial hardship due to COVID 19. If you state you do not have enough monthly income to pay for your rent or mortgage, you will need to file an Order to Show Cause through the court following June 20.
Attorneys are strongly encouraging anyone who has not or is not paying rent or mortgage, to be able to provide verification that you have been negatively impacted by COVID 19, through medical bills, verification of unemployment insurance benefits, and other documentation in court at a later date.
HRA continues to accept applications for the One Shot Deal which can also provide payment to bring an overdue and unpaid housing balance to zero, to stop the eviction or foreclosure from proceeding.
Some Evictions Will Move Forward After June 20
The Executive Order does not prevent all new eviction filings or prevent enforcement of previous evictions filed after June 20 for eviction cases that were filed for reasons other than non-payment of rent.
Some examples of other reasons evictions can be filed after June 20th or enforcement can move forward are:
- If your lease expired and you have not moved and continue to pay rent and your landlord has filed to evict you
- Your landlord reports you have illegal activities in your apartment
- You or another living in your apartment is behaving in a way that is dangerous and threatening to other residents in the building
The moratorium on enforcing previously filed warrants for evictions will end as well on June 20. This means that if a warrant was previously filed prior to the initial moratorium, action on the warrant will be able to begin again on June 21. If you are able to show you are unemployed and eligible for Unemployment Insurance Benefits or are facing a financial hardship due to COVID 19, you will be able to file an Order to Show Cause to temporarily stop the warrant from moving forward.
Additionally, starting on May 4, 2020, courts began reviewing some existing foreclosure and eviction cases and may result on a judgement or warrant of eviction that can be enforced after June 20. If your case is being reviewed, you will be notified. The courts will be actively working with HRA to provide outreach to contact those whose cases are being reviewed as well. If you are working with an attorney, please contact your attorney to obtain an update on your specific eviction or foreclosure case.
For more information on the Eviction Moratorium and additional Housing Help resources, you can call:
In NYC, call Housing Court Answers, 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday: 212-962-4795 or 718-557-1379. HCA staff answering calls speak Spanish, English, and French. Interpreters through the LanguageLine are used for all other languages.
Statewide hotline: 833-503-0447, open 24/7. Referrals and information only, this line does not answer legal questions. This line will assist you in connecting to your local courts, clerks offices and other resources.
You can also read more Frequently Asked Questions and Answers through Met Council on Housing’s website here: https://www.metcouncilonhousing.org/help-answers/eviction-moratorium-faqs/
Federally Subsidized Buildings
Through the CARES Act eviction moratorium, many residents in federally subsidized apartment building (including HUD) cannot have evictions filed for 120 days. This includes renters in homes that have federally-backed mortgages (such as Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, etc).
While not a comprehensive list, this searchable link allows renters to search for their residential building address to see if the building is included in the eviction moratorium. Single family rental homes or rental units with 1-4 units are also not included in this database.
https://nlihc.org/federal-moratoriums
Rental/Emergency Assistance AND Ongoing Cash Assistance Benefits
You can apply for emergency assistance grants (also known as the One Shot Deal) as well as ongoing Cash Assistance through ACCESS HRA. To apply for Cash Assistance, you do not need to apply for an emergency grant, but questions are asked during the online application process in order to make sure that an emergency grant is not needed to ensure the financial security of you and your household. Therefore, every ACCESS HRA Cash Assistance application starts with a series of emergency indicator questions.
To apply for Cash Assistance or a one-time emergency grant (also known as the One Shot Deal), you will need to take the following steps to apply online:
- Visit ACCESS HRA and log-in
- Select the ‘Benefits’ link from the menu options on the homepage
- Select ‘Start a New Application’
- Select the ‘Cash Assistance’ option in the ‘Select Application’ page
- Identify any applicable emergency indicators and click ‘Next’
- Select the type of benefits would you would like to apply for. The three options are: Cash Assistance, One Shot Deal, or Child Care without Cash Assistance (CILOCA)
- Complete and submit application
- Follow instructions in the ACCESS HRA confirmation page and submit required documents using the ACCESS HRA Mobile App
If you have an active Cash Assistance case, you can submit a special grant request for rent or utility arrears via ACCESS HRA. To submit a Cash Assistance Special Grant Request, you will need to:
- Visit ACCESS HRA and log-in
- Enter identifying information to ‘Find My Case’ and link to your HRA case
- Select ‘View Case’ in the ACCESS HRA user home page
- Select ‘Request Special Grant,’ located on the left-hand side
- Identify the special grant you are requesting, complete the request and submit
- Follow instructions in confirmation and submit required documents using the ACCESS HRA Mobile App
City FHEPS and Rental Assistance
City FHEPS is one of the programs that provides ongoing rental assistance. This is a benefit that is made available to clients who are in shelter or for some individuals facing eviction. More information about City FHEPS eligibility for community tenants can be found here and information on eligibility for households residing in shelter can be found here.
The Homebase program can help eligible clients facing eviction obtain rental assistance. Homebase locations are currently closed but are providing their services by phone. You can find the phone number for the Homebase location that serves your zip code here: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/homebase-locations.page
If you live in NYCHA
NYCHA has postponed any termination actions or hearings for those who are behind in their rent. You can also request an Interim Recertification if your income has decreased and will remain decreased for more than two (2) months or if you have lost your income entirely. You can complete this recertification by going to the NYCHA Self-Service Portal.
NYCHA’s journal has information about how they are responding to Coronavirus. There is this flyer for hardship reductions for NYCHA residents struggling to pay rent.
If you have a mortgage
Both the Federal government and the New York State government are working to establish relief programs for borrowers who are unable to pay their mortgage payments due to Coronavirus.
The CARES Act provides that mortgage lenders and servicers will be allowed to provide up to 180 days of forbearance (payment deferral) on federally-backed loans for customers experiencing hardship related to the Coronavirus emergency.
Please contact your mortgage company directly to learn the most up to date information on the relief program.
If you are facing foreclosure
There is a 60 day moratorium on foreclosure proceedings. No additional action will take place for 60 days, as of March 18, 2020.
If you have Section 8
NYC Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) Section 8 voucher holders having trouble paying rent because of income loss should email DTRAI@hpd.nyc.gov or by fax at 212-863-5299.
HPD will be suspending any subsidy termination actions until further notice. For more information click here: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/hpd/services-and-information/about-section-8.page
Legal Questions
If you have legal questions regarding your housing (eviction, foreclosure, or any other housing related concern) we recommend that you contact the following organizations to get answers to your questions:
NYLAG
NYLAG is providing phone consultations at 212-613-5000.
Met Council on Housing
Met Council on Housing Tenants Rights Hotline (English and Spanish) at 212-979-0611.
- Open: Mondays & Wednesdays from 1:30pm - 8:00pm and Friday 1:30pm - 5:00pm.
+ UTILITIES
Are you having trouble paying your utility bills?
National Grid
National Grid has stopped overdue bill collection and service turn off activities through the end of April 2020. So even if you do not pay your National Grid bill your service will not be turned off for at least one year. For more information you can go to: https://www.nationalgridus.com/COVID-19#conditionspause
Con Edison
Con Edison has also stopped overdue bill collection and service turn off activities. Your ConEd service will not be turned off for non-payment of a bill. Con Edison has not announced a date when they will begin turn offs of service again. For more information you can go to: https://www.coned.com/en/about-us/media-center/news/coronavirus/updates
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
HEAP, which helps eligible households meet their home energy needs in the winter season, has extended their application deadline to August 31, 2020 for households in need of financial assistance to pay for money for fuel, utility expenses, equipment and/or repairs. You can learn more about this benefit and if you are eligible to apply, by going to: https://access.nyc.gov/programs/home-energy-assistance-program-heap/
Qualifications for HEAP assistance include:
- Your household received a HEAP benefit during the current program year
OR - You are currently receiving Temporary Assistance or SNAP benefits through HRA.
Please note that funds are limited and you can call (212) 331-3126 for more information.
Cooling Assistance HEAP Benefit Program
You can apply for cooling assistance to buy and install an air conditioner or a fan for your home. Your household is allowed one or the other, and the price cannot be more than $800 with installation. Like HEAP funding, cooling assistance funds are limited and are distributed on a first-come-first-served basis.
You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified alien with a documented medical condition that is aggravated by heat. You must also meet certain income guidelines. Review additional requirements to determine if you’re eligible to apply.
HEAP eligibility is based on countable household income. Payments received in households through the CARES Act due to COVID 19 are not counted towards household income totals for HEAP.
The HEAP Cooling Assistance benefit opens May 1, 2020. Please note that the application deadline is August 30, 2020.
Questions regarding the HEAP program should be directed to your HEAP Local District Contact or the OTDA Hotline at 1-800-342-3009 or nysheap@otda.ny.gov.
You may be eligible for a Cooling Assistance HEAP benefit if:
- Your household's gross monthly income is at or below the current income guidelines for your household size, or
- You receive SNAP benefits or you receive Temporary Assistance or you receive Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI Living Alone)
And - - You and your household members are US citizens or qualified aliens
- Your household includes an individual with a documented medical condition that is exacerbated by heat
- You received a regular benefit greater than $21 in the current program year
- You do not have a working air conditioner or the air conditioner you have is 5 years old or older
- You did not receive a HEAP air conditioner within the past 5 years
To apply, you can call 212-331-3156 for a Cooling Application.
Get Cool Air Conditioning Program for NYCHA Seniors
The Get Cool Air Conditioning Program for low-income seniors living in NYCHA apartments is providing air conditioners for seniors 60 years and older who do not already have an air conditioner in their apartment and are already receiving one or more benefits from other city programs.
You may be contacted directly by the program to tell you, you are eligible. If you missed their call or want to speak to someone to see if you are eligible, you can call the NYCHA Customer Contact Center by calling 718-707-7771.
If the AC is not installed for you and you are in need of assistance, our SenioRepair program may be able to help. You can call to speak to someone about getting your AC installed by calling 929-292-9261.
+ PAID FAMILY LEAVE
Do you need to take time away from your job to care for yourself or a relative affected by Coronavirus?
In response to Coronavirus, New York State is guaranteeing workers job protection and financial compensation if you or your minor, dependent child are required to self-isolate and quarantine through an order from either the state of NY, the Department of Health, a local board of health, or any other government organization that has the authorization to require you to do so.
To learn more, if you are required to quarantine because of yourself: https://paidfamilyleave.ny.gov/if-you-are-quarantined-yourself
To learn more, if you are required to quarantine because of your minor, dependent child: https://paidfamilyleave.ny.gov/if-your-minor-dependent-child-quarantined
To learn more, if you are required to care for a family member who contracts Coronavirus: https://paidfamilyleave.ny.gov/paid-family-leave-family-care
+ LABOR LAW ISSUES
Do you believe an employer is violating either existing labor laws or recently issued executive orders by the Governor?
Please contact 311, the Attorney General’s office at (212) 416-8700 or via email at Labor.Bureau@ag.ny.gov to report any labor law issues.
Monitor nyc.gov/workers for ongoing updates about workplace laws as NYC seeks to stop the spread of Coronavirus.
+ HEALTH INSURANCE BENEFITS
Do you need access to health insurance benefits?
All New York health insurers have been directed to waive cost-sharing expenses associated with testing for coronavirus including emergency room, urgent care, telehealth, and office visits. New Yorkers receiving Medicaid coverage will not be expected to pay a co-pay for any testing related to Coronavirus.
New York State Official Health Plan Marketplace
The New Special Enrollment Period has been extended through June 15, 2020 for purchasing insurance coverage through the NY State of Health. If you lost your job-based coverage or if you’re uninsured, enroll today. New Yorkers must apply within 60 days of losing coverage.
There is rolling open enrollment for MAGI Medicaid. Consumers can apply for coverage through NY State of Health on-line at nystateofhealth.ny.gov, by phone at 855-355-5777, and by working with enrollment navigators.
For free enrollment assistance, call 311 or visit nyc.gov/GetCoveredNYC
New York State Medicaid
If you are a household of 3 with dependent children, and your Modified Adjusted Gross Income Level is $2,453 or less, your household may be eligible for Medicaid through New York State.
For a household of 3 who has members who are disabled, receive SSI, or are over the age of 65, the income guideline for Non Adjusted Gross Income Level is $1,476 per month. If your household income is this amount or less, your household may also be eligible for Medicaid.
These income guidelines are current to date and will be adjusted as Federal Poverty Limit Guidelines are updated in the coming months. Please review the following for additional income guideline information: https://www.health.ny.gov/health_care/medicaid/
Call the Human Resources Administration Medicaid Helpline for additional information at 888-692-6116.
In addition, you can contact Single Stop’s team of Health Care Navigators at 800-290-7181 (Single Stop’s Health Care Hotline).
COBRA
If you have recently lost your job and your employer has more than 20 employees, you may be eligible for COBRA which would allow you to temporarily keep the health insurance you had through your previous employer. You can keep this same insurance for up to 18 months, however, it is often at a higher premium than you were paying through your employment. Please contact the HR Department at your previous employer for more information about applying for COBRA.
+ INCOME TAX FILING DEADLINE EXTENDED
Do you need assistance with filing your Federal and State Taxes?
The New York State and Federal U.S. income tax filing deadlines have both been extended from April 15 to July 15, 2020. Please refer to the special IRS website: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus for updated information.
Met Council’s Free Tax Prep Program
If you earned $64,000 or less with dependents or $45,000 or less without dependents, you can also make a virtual appointment to file for free and keep your whole refund with one of Met Council’s Free Tax Prep Program filers for virtual tax filing services.
Make a virtual appointment today to file for free and get important tax credits such as Earned Income Tax Credits.
For those who need assistance filing their taxes, please contact one of Met Council’s Free Tax Prep Program filers below:
- Anna Zaichik | VITA Program Coordinator, Benefits Access | W: (347) 482-4167 | email: vita1@metcouncil.org
- Rachel Zawadzki | VITA Site Coordinator at Met Council | W: (347) 683-4064 | email: vita2@metcouncil.org
- Krystle Johnson| VITA Site Coordinator at JCCMP | W: (347)729-4793 | email: vita3@metcouncil.org
- Aikerim Daniiar Kyzy | Vita Site Coordinator | W: (646) 418-1648 | email: vita4@metcouncil.org
Free Online Tax Filing Resources
IRS Free File
Prepare and file your federal income tax return for free using tax preparation and filing software through IRS Free File.
- Free File Online Products are available for those with incomes of $69,000 and below.
- Free File Fillable Forms are available for those with incomes above $69,000.
Turbo Tax
You can file both your federal and state taxes for free online with Turbo Tax (income restrictions apply).
My Free Taxes
You can file both your federal and state taxes for free online with My Free Taxes a United Way’s partnership with H&R Block (income restrictions apply).
+ SCHOOL RESOURCES: REMOTE LEARNING DEVICE REQUESTS
Do you require access to remote learning technology for your children?
Remote Learning Technology
If you do not have access at home to the technology your child needs for learning from home, you can request a Remote Learning Device from the Department of Education by going here: https://coronavirus.schools.nyc/RemoteLearningDevices or call Phone: 718-935-5100 (press 5)
Everyone who fills out a request form, online, with a school staff, or over the phone, will be sent follow up emails and texts.
- Priority will be given to students most in need.
- All devices are granted on a temporary basis and will later need to be returned.
- There is a limit of one device per student.
- You must fill out a separate form for each student who needs a device.
- Make sure you agree to the Terms of Use in the request form.
- There is no need to call the DOE or 311 to check on the status of your device. We are getting the devices out as fast as we can, and are following processes to make sure our highest need families get them first.
Student Device Loan Agreement Before we can loan the iPad, the family must complete the Student Device Loan Agreement (Open external link) By accepting the agreement and using the device, families agree that the device is the property of the NYCDOE, and it must be returned when on-site learning resumes. Form for Remote Learning Devices: https://coronavirus.schools.nyc/RemoteLearningDevices
Delivery of iPads:
Devices are delivered every week and are distributed on a rolling basis.
For information on how the iPad or remote learning device will be delivered and next steps once you submit you form, you can learn more by going here: https://www.schools.nyc.gov/learn-at-home/ipad-distribution?utm_source=ACCESS+NYC+Newsletter&utm_campaign=096795c71f-NEWSLETTER_CAMPAIGN_05_01_2020&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_aa67394696-096795c71f-68512933&ct=t(NEWSLETTER_CAMPAIGN_05_01_2020)
Learn More about Remote Learning Resources and Tools available to you and your child by going to: https://www.schools.nyc.gov/learn-at-home/information-on-remote-learning
IPADs
To keep students connected and able to learn from home, the DOE is lending 300,000 internet-enabled iPads to students. Families that want to request a device should fill out the Remote Learning Device Request form, below. Teachers and school staff should use this same form to request devices on behalf of their students.
There is no deadline for this request, please fill out the form today to get a device for your child.
Please note that the DOE will never ask for any payment in response to this request.
+ FREE INTERNET RESOURCES
Do you need free internet resources?
Charter
Charter is offering free Spectrum broadband and Wi-Fi access for 60 days to households with K-12 and/or college students who do not already have a Spectrum broadband subscription. New student households do not have to pay installation fees. To enroll, call Spectrum at 844-488-8395.
Xfinity WiFi
Until further notice, all Xfinity WiFi Public Hotspots are now open to everyone on the “xfinitywifi” SSID.
- Public hotspots can be found in small/medium businesses and outdoors in commercial areas.
- Non-Xfinity subscribers need to accept Terms and Conditions to access the network and repeat when requested to continue to receive free unlimited access.
- Find a WiFi Public HotSpot on this map and learn more from Xfinity WiFi by going to: http://wifi.xfinity.com/
+ MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
Are you feeling stressed or anxious due to the Coronavirus pandemic?
NYC Well
There are free mental health services available by NYC Well by calling 888-NYC-Well (available 24/7) or by texting WELL to 65173. You can chat with someone online also by going here: https://nycwell.cityofnewyork.us/en/
NYS OMH Emotional Support Line
The NYS OMH Emotion Support Line also provides free and confidential support, helping callers experiencing increased anxiety due to the Coronavirus emergency. The Help Line is staffed by volunteers, including mental health professionals, who have received training in crisis counseling. Please call 844-863-9314 or visit the website here: https://omh.ny.gov/omhweb/covid-19-resources.html
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI-NYC)
NAMI-NYC is providing a variety of support resources to help you or a loved one with general or Coronavirus related mental health concerns. Call the Helpline from 10 am to 6 pm at 212-684-3264 or email helpline@naminyc.org. They are also offering weekday support groups by phone and video.
Headspace
New York State is partnering with Headspace to provide New Yorkers free meditation and mindfulness content as a mental health resource. https://www.headspace.com/ny
+ LOANS
Are you facing financial challenges requiring a loan?
Hebrew Free Loan
The Coronavirus Financial Impact Loan Program provides interest-free loans of $2,000-$5,000 to residents of New York City’s five boroughs, Westchester, or Long Island who are facing financial challenges caused by the Coronavirus outbreak. More information can be found here: hfls.org/loan0programs/coronavirusfinancialimpactloan
New York Forward Loan Fund (NYFLF)
This new fund is designed to support small businesses, nonprofits and small landlords as they reopen in the coming weeks, as able, for expense that may be incurred due to increased guidelines that need to be followed for reopening as listed in the New Forward Plan.
Pre-application for the New York Forward Loan Fund will be open on May 26, 2020 at 12pm and applications will begin to be reviewed starting June 1, 2020.
Priority will be given to applications of small businesses that have reopened, however applications are reviewed on an on-going basis as businesses continue to open in the coming weeks. This is not a first come, first serve application process.
Additional eligibility criteria is:
- Small businesses and nonprofits must employ 20 or fewer full-time equivalent (FTE) employees;
- Small businesses must have gross revenues of less than $3 million per year;
- Nonprofits must provide direct services and have an annual operating budget of less than $3 million per year; and
- Have not received a loan from either SBA Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) or SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) or COVID-19 in 2020.
Additional information about what is covered through the loan and how to apply can be found here: https://esd.ny.gov/nyforwardloans-info.
You can begin to apply and learn additional information also by going here: https://www.connect2capital.com/partners/new-york-forward-loan-fund/
+ NYS SUSPENSION OF MEDICAL AND STUDENT DEBT COLLECTION
Do you need assistance with medical or student debt owed to New York State?
In response to growing financial impairments resulting from the spread of Coronavirus, the OAG will temporarily halt the collection of medical and student debts that are owed to the State of New York and that have been referred to the OAG for collection, for at least a 30-day period, from March 16, 2020 through April 15, 2020. After this 30-day period, the OAG will reassess the needs of state residents for a possible extension.
New Yorkers with non-medical or non-student debt owed to the State of New York and referred to the OAG, may also apply to temporarily halt the collection of state debt.
Please call the OAG hotline at 800-771-7755 or go to the following website for additional information https://ag.ny.gov/coronavirus
+ EMPLOYMENT RESOURCES
Do you need assistance finding a job?
Virtual Workforce1 Career Center System from the NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS)
The NYC SBS prepares and helps New Yorkers to find jobs. Free services offered at the network of Workforce1 Career Centers throughout the five boroughs include job listings, recruitment events, job search resources, veterans’ services, resume and interview workshops, and training.
Due to Coronavirus, all Workforce1 Centers are closed until further notice. The Virtual Workforce1 Career Center System can connect you via web or phone to one-on-one help from professionals who can help you:
- Identify jobs that are a fit for your experience and skills
- Prepare for interviews
- Access free training
Call (718) 960-2458 or Click here to connect: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/sbs/careers/virtual-wf1cc.page.
All services are no-cost and do not require in-person visits.
Educational Alliance
Educational Alliance is offering one-on-one counseling to assist with resume writing, interview preparation, job applications, research tools and more especially those whose job has been affected by Coronavirus. For help, email a Counselor at EmploymentServices@edalliance.org.
National Retail Federation
While many retailers have been forced to make cuts to their workforce due to the Coronavirus pandemic, other retail companies are hiring thousands of workers. Find opportunities here: https://nrf.com/resources/job-opportunities-workers-displaced-covid-19
NYC Food Delivery Driver Portal
NYC is recruiting TLC-licensed drivers through DeliveryTLC to help with work related to the Coronavirus pandemic, such as delivering food to older adults. This work will be paid $15/hour plus reimbursement for gas and tolls. Drivers will be selected on a first-come, first-serve basis. The initial need for drivers will be small, but is expected to increase as NYC expands its programs.
Contact Tracer Training
COVID-19 tracers do not specifically require experience in the health-care industry, you do need to have strong communication skills and access to a computer. New York state alone plans to hire between 6,400 and 17,000 contact tracers through their partnership with Hopkins and Bloomberg philanthropies.
Contact tracing is the process of talking to coronavirus patients and finding out who they may have come in contact with to help them limit spreading the disease even more.
The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health launched the free online course to train contact tracers. It takes six hours to complete and covers five sections:
- Basic information about the coronavirus
- The fundamentals of contact tracing
- The steps of tracing cases and their contacts
- The ethics of contact tracing
- Skills for effective communications
A recent report from the Johns Hopkins estimates the U.S. needs to hire at least 100,000 contract tracers to help limit the spread of the coronavirus and start to reopen the economy.
The free course is a required part of the hiring process for those New Yorkers. A link to the course can be found by Clicking Here.
+ FEDERAL STUDENT LOANS
Are you having trouble paying your federal student loans?
The Federal CARES act was signed into law on March 27, 2020 and provides automatic payment suspensions for any student loan held by the federal government until September 30, 2020. Previously, the President announced that you have an option to stop paying your federal student loans for 60 days and can get student loan forbearance by contacting your student loan servicer. The new legislation extends these benefits for several months and makes them automatic. Direct loans from the past 10 years from the federal government are eligible. Interest shall not accrue on the loan during the suspension period. In addition, you can keep paying down your principal if you want. Note that for applicants qualifying for the public service loan forgiveness program, any federal student loan payments that you skip between now and September 30, 2020 will count toward the 120 required payments.
Older Federal Family Educational Loans (F.F.E.L.) that the U.S. Department of Education does not own are NOT eligible, nor are Perkins loans, loans from state agencies, or loans from private lenders like Discover, Sallie Mae and Wells Fargo.
Check your online account to see if the servicer has reset its billing systems to show that no payment is due. Within a few weeks, expect to receive a notice from your loan servicer regarding the status of your direct federal loans. Contact your loan servicer for additional information.
+ RETIREMENT SAVINGS
Do you need access to your retirement savings account?
As part of the CARE Act, the federal government is waiving penalties and making other accommodations for those who need to access retirement savings early.
You can withdraw up to $100,000 this year without the usual 10 percent penalty, as long as it is because of the Coronavirus outbreak. You will also be able to spread out any income taxes that you owe over three (3) years from the date you took the distribution. You can put the money back into the account before those three (3) years are up, even though the rules may normally keep you from making a contribution that large.
This exception applies only to Coronavirus related withdrawals. You qualify if you tested positive, a spouse or dependent did or if you experienced a variety of other negative economic consequences related to the pandemic. Employers can allow workers to self-certify that they are qualified to pull money from a workplace retirement account.
Additionally, if you need to borrow from a 401(k) or other workplace retirement plan, you can take out twice the usual amount for 180 days after March 27, 2020. You must provide certification that you’ve been affected by the Coronavirus pandemic and you will be able to take out a loan of up to $100,000.
If you already have a loan and were supposed to finish repaying it before December 31, 2020 you get an extra year.
+ TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
Do you need help with temporary cash assistance?
Temporary Assistance (TA) is temporary help for needy men, women and children. If you are unable to work, can’t find a job, or your job does not pay enough, TA may be able to help you pay for your expenses. Family Assistance is available to families that have a minor child living in the home or a caretaker relative. If eligible, you may be able to receive this assistance up to 60 months in your lifetime. If you received this assistance in another state, those months will be counted towards the total 60 months limit. Safety Net Assistance provides cash assistance to eligible needy individuals and families who are not eligible for Family Assistance.
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of New York, have no or low income, be either pregnant or responsible for a child under 18 years of age or under 19 years of age and the child regularly attends secondary school, a U.S. national, citizen, legal alien, or permanent resident. Adults who are determined to be able to work will need to comply with program work requirements to continue to receive this assistance.
For more information you may call the New York State Temporary Assistance hotline at 800-342-3009 or visit this website to check if you qualify for assistance.
+ FAMILY VIOLENCE SERVICES
Do you need assistance with family violence services due to the Coronavirus quarantine?
New York City Resources
Although the Mayor's Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence (ENDGBV) made the difficult decision to temporarily close the NYC Family Justice Centers, their services remain available from by phone to provide vital services for survivors, including legal consultations, counseling sessions, safety planning, case management, and more. For assistance on nights or weekends, survivors can call the City's 24-hour DV Hotline at 800-621-4673 or visit http://nyc.gov/NYCHOPE to get connected to resources. DV shelters are still accepting new intakes. For more information, please see the letter from Commissioner Cecile Noel here.
Met Council
Met Council is a leader in addressing the needs of domestic violence victims in New York City. We assist survivors of intimate partner abuse, family abuse, and sex trafficking with a variety of services that create safety, support healing, and promote self-sufficiency.
- To speak to a specialist, please call 212-453-9618 or email family@metcouncil.org.
Safe Horizon
Safe Horizon is also providing support to domestic violence survivors through virtual and telephonic services. Hotline advocates are trained to safety plan with survivors and are available 24/7 to provide help.
- Call the 24/7 Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-621-HOPE (4673)
- Call the 24/7 Rape and Sexual Assault Hotline: 212-227-3000
- Chat with an advocate: visit Safehorizon.org/SafeChat
NYS Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence
TEXT at 844.997.2121 CALL at 800.942.6906 Chat available: https://opdv.ny.gov/
+ SENIOR SERVICES
Are you in need of senior services?
Senior Center Meals
To prevent the spread of Coronavirus, senior centers are currently closed for congregate programming and meals are being provided through a centralized meal delivery system. Meals for seniors will be available from local senior centers with 100% meal delivery, rather than grab and go. To receive direct delivery call your local senior center. You can also call DFTA's Aging Connect at 212-AGING-NYC (212-244-6469) or 311. For more information visit the DFTA website.
Elder Care Locator
Please use the U.S. Administration of Aging’s Elder Care Locator to connect you to services for older adults and their families by calling 800-677-1116 or visiting the website https://omh.ny.gov/omhweb/covid-19-resources.html
Invisible Hands Deliver
Invisible Hands Deliver offers free supermarket and pharmacy deliveries during the Coronavirus pandemic for the elderly and frail. Please request a delivery using this online form https://www.invisiblehandsdeliver.com/request-a-delivery
- If you have questions, please call 732-639-1579 or email invisiblehandsdeliver@gmail.com.
Air Conditioner Program
This summer, the City will provide 74,000 air conditioners to vulnerable New Yorkers providing cooling for their residence to stay cool during summer heat events. New Yorkers who are 60 years old and older and have income below 60 percent of the state median income, and do not have air conditioning at home are eligible. Eligible New Yorkers will be identified by NYCHA, DFTA, HRA and HPD, and city case managers will reach out directly to income-eligible seniors.
+ IMMIGRATION STATUS
Are you worried about seeking help during the Coronavirus crisis due to your immigration status?
CUNY Citizenship NOW
CUNY Citizenship Now! provides free, high quality, and confidential immigration law services to help individuals and families on their path to U.S. citizenship. Our attorneys and paralegals offer one-on-one consultations to assess participants’ eligibility for legal benefits and assist them in applying when qualified.
This agency will provide only provide legal services remotely until further notice.
They will provide consultations on all family-based and naturalization cases. Direct assistance with applications will be limited to green card renewals, citizenship, DACA, and TPS.
To find the location closest to you: http://www1.cuny.edu/sites/citizenship-now/about/contact-2/
For general questions, you can call 646-664-9400 * and leave us a message, or text us at 929-334-3784.
Anyone who needs help during the Coronavirus crisis should seek care without fear, regardless of immigration status or ability to pay for health services. If you are mildly sick, stay home as much as possible. If your symptoms do not go away or get worse after three to four (3-4) days, please contact your doctor for a consultation by phone, text message, email, telemedicine (video conferencing), or through your patient portal.
If you need help finding a doctor or getting medical care call 311 and get connected to a doctor today. For more information, resources, and the latest updates in multiple languages on Coronavirus visit nyc.gov/coronavirus. You can also sign up to get real-time SMS text updates on the latest developments in New York City. Text COVID to 692-692 to receive updates in English. Text COVIDESP to 692-692 to receive updates in Spanish.
Seeking or using medical treatment or preventive healthcare services related to COVID-19 will NOT be considered under the public charge rule, even if the services are Medicaid-funded. Use of healthcare services will not impact your ability to apply for a green card.
For addition information click here: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/immigrants/help/legal-services/public-charge.page Free Legal Services
Call the ActionNYC hotline at 800-354-0365 and say "public charge" from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday to Friday, to get answers to your questions, plus:
- Connections to immigration legal help and referrals to other legal and non-legal services.
- The hotline is free and anonymous.
- Help is available in over 200 languages.
+ NYC CORONAVIRUS RESOURCES AND SUPPORT AND COVID-19 ENGAGEMENT PORTAL
Where can I find more resources for New York City residents?
New York City has developed a NYC Coronavirus Resources and Support website where you can find programs and services that can help you make ends meet, find ways to cope, and support others during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. In addition, NYC created an NYC COVID-19 Engagement Portal as a new tool to help guide the City’s response to the Coronavirus pandemic. The portal is available in 11 languages and allows New Yorkers to self-report Coronavirus information and will help New York City both better communicate with affected people and identify areas that may need enhanced response. Inputs are confidential. People without internet access or who need help, can call 311.
Please find more resources on benefits available to New Yorkers in response to the Coronavirus pandemic here Coronavirus (COVID-19 Updates).
NYC also has a list of COVID-19 Resources for People with Disabilities.
Do you need a free face mask?
New Yorkers: Get a free face covering at a NYC Park. To find the closest distribution location, date, & time, visit nyc.gov/facecoverings
+ OATH HEARINGS
What if I have an OATH hearing?
OATH Offices are closed until at least April 13, 2020 and not conducting in-person hearings, but OATH is offering several remote hearing and rescheduling options.
The OATH Trials Division located at 100 Church Street, NY, NY 10007 is closed until Monday, April 20, 2020 but is still holding conferences and trials by phone. If interested in taking advantage of this option, parties should email OATHCalunit@oath.nyc.gov.
The OATH Hearings Division has also closed its five borough hearing centers until at least April 13, 2020 and those locations are not holding in-person but the Hearings Division is still holding remote hearings.
If you are interested in a Hearing by Phone please email OATH at the hearing location listed on your summons:
- BRONX: RemoteBronx@oath.nyc.gov
- BROOKLYN: RemoteBKLYN@oath.nyc.gov
- MANHATTAN: RemoteManhattan@oath.nyc.gov
- QUEENS: RemoteLIC@oath.nyc.gov
- STATEN ISLAND: RemoteSI@oath.nyc.gov
Respondents with eligible summonses can submit a written defense online by doing a One-Click Online Hearing.
OATH is currently rescheduling all hearings when a respondent does not respond on or before the hearing date. If you want to reschedule your hearing yourself, you can use the Online Rescheduling form.
If you are self-represented and want assistance from OATH's Help Center prior to your hearing, you can email the Help Center location where your hearings was going to be held and someone will email or call you back.
+ FREELANCERS, INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS AND SELF-EMPLOYED PROFESSIONALS
Freelancers Union Relief Fund
Freelancers Union Relief Fund will offer financial assistance of up to $1,000 per freelance household to cover lost income and essential expenses not covered by government relief programs, such as food/food supplies, utility payments and cash assistance to cover income loss freelancersunion.org/freelancers-relief-fund
New York Foundation for the Arts
New York Foundation for the Arts has a list of emergency financial assistance grants for people in arts and culture, entertainment, writers and others areas affected by COVID-19, visit nyfa.org/Emergency Grants
The Artists Relief Fund
Up to $5,000 in financial grants are available to artists for assistance. Applications are being accepted through September 2020. Additional information on how to apply and eligibility is available here: https://www.artistrelief.org/
Restaurant Workers Charity Foundation
Restaurant Workers Charity Foundation has an application available for assistance for those who work at restaurants. For information on the assistance available and the application process, those interested can click here: https://www.restaurantworkerscf.org/covid19faq
Bartender Emergency Assistance Program
The USBG National Charity Foundation is offering grants for eligible applicants through its Bartender Emergency Assistance Program. For information on the assistance available and the application process, those interested can click here: https://www.usbgfoundation.org/beap
The Professional Beauty Association
The PBA and PBA Charities have a new fund to help those who have list income and are a licensed beauty professional. Additional information on how to apply and eligibility is available here: HTTPS://WWW.PROBEAUTY.ORG/COVID-RELIEF-FUND-APPLICATION
One Fair Wage Emergency Fund
Provides cash assistance to restaurant workers, car service drivers, delivery workers, personal service workers by applying here: https://ofwemergencyfund.org/help
+ CHILD CARE RESOURCES
If I am an essential worker, how do I plan for childcare?
New York State will provide child care scholarships to all essential workers starting Monday, April 20. Essential workers include first responders such as health care providers, pharmaceutical staff, law enforcement, firefighters, food delivery workers, grocery store employees and others who are needed to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Child care costs will be covered with the federal CARES Act funding to essential staff whose income is less than 300 percent of the federal poverty level – or $78,600 for a family of four – and will be paid up to market rate for each region statewide.
Essential workers can use the funding to pay for their existing care arrangement. If an essential worker needs child care, they can contact their local child care resource and referral agency (CCRR) to find openings.
To contact you local CCRR, you can locate it by going here: https://ocfs.ny.gov/main/childcare/referralagencies.asp
Application to apply for the scholarship is located at the bottom of the page on the above link.
+ PETS AND SERVICE ANIMALS
How do I plan for my pet or service animal if I have a medical emergency?
There is a Pet Hotline now available for those who have pets in NYC who have been impacted by COVID 19:
Pet owners impacted by COVID 19 can call the Pet Hotline at 877-204-8821 7 days a week, 8am to 8pm.
Please visit the NYCEM pets planning page at https://www1.nyc.gov/site/em/ready/pets.page to help plan ahead for your pets in case of a medical emergency.
Please note that this document is provided solely for your convenience. It does not replace the applicable laws, rules and regulations guiding this process. This document is current as of July 7, 2020 and will be updated with additional information as it becomes available.