Rental Assistance Grants in New York: What Renters Need to Know (2025)

If you’re renting in New York and worried about rising rent, the risk of eviction, or short-term financial setbacks, knowing about available rental assistance grants can provide welcome relief. In 2025, several established state and local programs offer help covering rent, preventing eviction, and securing long-term housing stability. This guide breaks down what assistance is available in New York, with clear steps and official resources so you can apply with confidence.

Understanding Rental Assistance in New York

Rental assistance in New York comes from federal, state, and local sources. These programs help tenants stay in their homes and avoid eviction during tough financial times. Programs are managed by agencies like New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) and county government departments.

Key Rental Assistance Programs in 2025

• New York State Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP): Provides temporary help paying rent and preventing evictions. Watch for updated application cycles and guidelines in 2025 through OTDA’s official ERAP portal.
• New York City Family Homelessness & Eviction Prevention Supplement (FHEPS): Assists low-income families facing eviction or homelessness in NYC. Visit NYC HRA FHEPS for eligibility details.
• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: Administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) to subsidize rent for eligible tenants. Apply through New York State HCR Section 8.
• Local County Rental Assistance Programs: Many New York counties and cities offer targeted rental help, often with their own applications through Social Services offices.

Most grants prioritize households at risk of eviction, those with low incomes, or people with unexpected loss of income.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• ERAP Application:
  
  • Name/Number: Emergency Rental Assistance Program Application (no specific NY form number).
  • When to Use: If you’re behind on rent and meet income requirements.
  • How: Fill out the online form at the New York State ERAP portal or call 1-844-NY1-RENT.
  • Example: If your job loss caused rental arrears in 2024-25, you can submit the ERAP application with paystubs and your lease agreement.
• HCR Section 8 Pre-Application:
  
  • Name/Number: NYS HCR Section 8 HCV Preliminary Application.
  • When to Use: If you need long-term rental subsidy assistance.
  • How: Complete the form when the waitlist is open via the official HCR pre-application page.
  • Example: If you’re a low-income senior facing eviction, you can apply for the Section 8 voucher to reduce your rent burden moving forward.
• Income Verification (for various programs):
  
  • Name/Number: Typical documentation includes paystubs, benefits award letters, or the New York State Public Assistance Application (LDSS-2921) as needed for county programs.
  • When to Use: When asked to verify eligibility for public housing, emergency aid, or rental grants.
  • How: Gather the required papers when prompted during your grant application.
  • Example: If Social Services requests proof of recent unemployment, include your termination letter and last paystub with your LDSS-2921 form.

Who Oversees Rental Assistance and Tenant Disputes?

For questions about leasing rights, eviction, or complaint procedures, New York renters can contact:

• Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR): This is the official state agency overseeing tenant rights and rental laws. Visit the DHCR official tenant portal for information and forms.
• New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA): Manages ERAP and other direct assistance programs.

For any legal disputes, the New York Housing Court is the main tribunal handling landlord-tenant cases. Learn more or find your local court through the NY Housing Court portal.

Key Tenancy Laws Protecting New York Renters

Your rights as a renter are protected under multiple New York statutes, including:

• New York State Real Property Law: Covers your basic rights as a tenant, from security deposits to eviction notice requirements^[1].
• Rent Stabilization Laws (in NYC): Dictate rental increase limits and other protections for tenants in covered units^[2].

Knowing your rights helps you use rental grant programs effectively and avoid unintentional missteps.

If you get a notice of eviction, you may still qualify for emergency rental help—apply right away and consult with the Housing Court or tenant advocacy group for extra support.

How to Apply for Rental Assistance in New York (2025)

Applying is confidential and free. Here’s the general process (specific programs may differ):

• Review eligibility for each program (income, location, housing status).
• Gather required identification, proof of income, rental agreement, and eviction notice (if applicable).
• Complete the application online or in person—always use the official program portal.
• Submit required documentation (scan or upload where necessary).
• Track your application via email or direct contact with program staff.

If you get stuck, reach out to a local Social Services office or DHCR help center—they can walk you through your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of rent assistance are available in New York?
   New York offers emergency rent grants (ERAP), ongoing subsidies like Section 8, and local programs for specific populations.
2. Can I get help if I’ve already received an eviction notice?
   Yes. Emergency rental help is often available up to and sometimes past the start of an eviction. Apply quickly and let the court know you’re waiting for program results.
3. Is rental assistance taxable?
   No, funds received from official programs like ERAP or Section 8 are generally not taxable for renters.
4. How do I know if I qualify for ERAP or Section 8?
   Check the income and application rules listed on program sites and gather necessary documents before you apply.
5. Where can I get free help with my application?
   You can contact local social service agencies, tenant advocacy groups, or the Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) for free advice and hands-on help.

Key Takeaways for New York Renters

• Multiple rental assistance programs are available—don’t wait if you need help.
• Use official forms and government portals to avoid delays.
• Your rights as a tenant are protected by specific state legislation. Reach out for legal or application support if needed.

It’s important to act quickly and keep records of all submissions.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) Tenant Resources: Information, complaint forms, and counseling.
• ERAP Official Site: Emergency rent help application and FAQ.
• NYC HRA FHEPS Program: Homelessness prevention and family rental aid.
• New York Housing Court: Information on tenant-landlord cases and filings.
• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program - NYS HCR

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1. See New York State Real Property Law for full tenancy statutes.
2. Review NYC Rent Stabilization Fact Sheet for local rent rule details.

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