How to Apply for FHEPS in NYC

FHEPS (the Family Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement) is a New York State–funded rental-assistance voucher administered by NYC's DSS/HRA. Like CityFHEPS, there is no open online waitlist — you are assessed for FHEPS through a shelter, a Homebase office, or your Cash Assistance case.

Step 1: Confirm your eligibility

FHEPS is for families that receive Cash Assistance and face a housing emergency — an active eviction (or one within the last 12 months), a Housing Court case, a foreclosure on your building, a domestic-violence situation, or a City agency ordering you to leave for health or safety reasons. A caseworker can confirm whether you qualify.

Step 2: Gather your documents

You will generally need identification, proof that you receive Cash Assistance, proof of income and household composition, and documentation of your eviction or housing emergency such as court papers. Your caseworker will tell you exactly what is required.

Step 3: Apply through the right door

If you are in a DHS or HRA shelter, you are assessed automatically — your housing specialist explains FHEPS and helps you search. If you are in the community and at risk of eviction, contact your local Homebase provider (call 311 for the nearest office). If you already receive Cash Assistance, you can submit a special-grant request at nyc.gov/accesshra or in the ACCESS HRA app.

Step 4: Find a unit and finish the process

Once approved, HRA sets your maximum rent by household size. Find a unit within that amount whose landlord accepts the voucher — under the NYC Human Rights Law, most landlords cannot legally refuse it. The unit is inspected, the landlord signs an agreement, and the city begins paying its share.

Get help

FHEPS can be renewed for up to five years while you remain eligible. Free housing specialists, legal-aid organizations, and voucher-friendly brokers can help you navigate the process and find a home.