IMPORTANT NEWS ABOUT SNAP BENEFITS
NOTICE:
Rockland County now has a new, free mobile application (app) available to county residents that enables them to submit necessary documents. Visit page for more information on NYDocSubmit.
Eligibility Programs
- Child Care Assistance
- Employment
- SNAP
- Home Energy Assistance (HEAP)
- Housing
- Emergency Housing
- Medical Assistance
- Temporary Assistance
- Rental Supplement Program (RSP)
Non-Parent Caregivers (grandparents, other relatives, friends) who are caring for children living in their home without their parent, may be eligible for social service benefits including Temporary Assistance and Medical Assistance (Medicaid). See more information:
Child Care Assistance Unit
To apply for Child Care Assistance you must file an application packet.
The packet can be downloaded, picked up at the Department of Social Services, 50 Sanatorium Rd – Bldg. L, Pomona, NY 10970 or call 845-364-3797 for a packet to be mailed to you and for any questions.
Eligibility Criteria:
- English
- Spanish
Application Packet:
Application for Child Care Assistance
- English
- Spanish
Instructions for completing the Child Care Application
- English (.word)
- Spanish (.word)
List of necessary documents
Licensed Provider Form
Shelter Verification
Employment Verification
Self-Employment necessary document list
Income Eligibility Standards
Book l – English https://otda.ny.gov/programs/applications/4148A.pdf
Book I – Spanish https://otda.ny.gov/programs/applications/4148A-SP.pdf
Book 2 – English https://otda.ny.gov/programs/applications/4148B.pdf
Book 2 – Spanish https://otda.ny.gov/programs/applications/4148B-SP.pdf
Book 3 – English https://otda.ny.gov/programs/applications/4148C.pdf
Book 3 – Spanish https://otda.ny.gov/programs/applications/4148C-SP.pdf
You may submit your application and documents in person, by mail, by fax 845-364-3477, or email RocklandCCS@dfa.state.ny.us
To either find or become an approved child care provider visit https://ocfs.ny.gov
Employment
Contact the Employment Unit at (845) 364-3143 or Email: RocklandEmployment@dfa.state.ny.us.
Temporary Assistance applicants and recipients must participate in work activities assigned by the Employment Unit. These work-related activities are intended to lead applicants and recipients to employment opportunities that will return them to self-sufficiency.
A partial list of work activities includes, but is not limited to:
- Employment - both subsidized and unsubsidized
- Job search and job readiness training
- Work experience
- On-the-job training
- Community service
- Vocational education
Please view the Employment Services Fact Sheet for more information.
SNAP Recipients are also subject to work requirements. To get more info see the SNAP Employment Services Work Requirements Fact Sheet.
Click below for Rockland Works information
Every two years the Rockland County Department of Social Services must submit to the NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance its Biennial Temporary Assistance and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment Plan. This plan describes the county's employment services program for applicants and recipients of TA and SNAP benefits. The 2022-2023 Biennial Temporary Assistance and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment Plan is now available for public review. All comments should be emailed to the Rockland County DSS Employment Unit at RocklandEmployment@dfa.state.ny.us
The plan will be available for review and comment for 30 days from 11/8/21.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Contact the SNAP Unit at (845) 364-3032 or Email: RocklandDTA@dfa.state.ny.us
Click here to view information on the Pandemic-EBT Benefits (P-EBT) for school age children.
Click here to view information on the Schools Breakfast - Lunch Programs
Click here to view information on the Feeding Programs
Click here to view information on the Income Guidelines for Households.
Serves as the first line of defense against hunger. Applicants can apply online or contact the DSS Eligibility Call Center at 845-364-3032 if a personal interview is desired.
Applicants can also visit one of the following agencies that have community computers and staff who will assist with SNAP applications:
- HACSO, 24 West Street, Spring Valley, 845-352-5897
- People to People, 121 W. Nyack Road, Nanuet, 845-623-4900
- Village of Kaser, 15 Elyon Road, Monsey, 845-352-2932
- WestCOP at Rockland Community Action Program, 17 W. Broad Street, Haverstraw, 845-553-9118
For general information on SNAP, visit the US Department of Agriculture website.
Click here to view information on the SNAP Fact Sheet.
Click below to view SNAP Work Rules forms
22-ADM-01-General_SNAP_Work_Rules
22-ADM-01-SNAP ABAWD Work Rules
SNAP benefits are issued through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card. Please see instructions on how to use your card to get SNAP.
If you find you need additional food throughout the month to feed your family, there are many local Food Pantries and Soup Kitchens; click here for a complete listing: Rockland Community Against Hunger. It is recommended that you contact the pantries/kitchens to confirm days and hours of operation.
Eat Smart NY provides workshops on numerous food-related topics, including: nutrition/food safety education, assistance with family financial management, help with dietary planning and food shopping for low income individuals and families. Contact Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rockland County at 845-429-7085 or log on to their website, www.rocklandcce.org, for additional details.
See our listing of Farmer's Markets for locations in Rockland. Most markets accept FMNP (coupons for income-eligible seniors and WIC recipients) and some accept SNAP.
Visit U.S. Department of Agriculture to find out how to file a SNAP discrimination complaint.
Click below to view the Nondiscrimination Statements in English and Spanish.
Nondiscrimination-Statement-English
Nondiscrimination-Statement-Spanish
Summer Food Service Program:
The NYS Education Department offers low-income children 18 years of age and younger, as well as disabled young adults over age 18 enrolled in school programs for persons with disabilities, to receive free, nutritious meals during the summer months when schools are not in session. Call 1-800-522-5006 or visit www.fns.usda.gov/summerfoodrocks for a location near you.
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Contact the HEAP Unit at (845) 364-3480 or Email: RocklandHEAP@dfa.state.ny.us.
HEAP is a Federally-funded energy program that assists low-income individuals and families in meeting their immediate home energy needs. HEAP season runs from November 1, 2022 - March 15, 2023. If you qualify, HEAP may be able to help you if your source of heat is: Natural Gas, Propane, Oil, Electricity, Wood/Wood Pellets, Kerosene, Coal or Corn.
HEAP is comprised of the following components:
1. REGULAR HEAP (November 1, 2022 – March 15, 2023)
You may be eligible for a regular HEAP benefit if your household's gross monthly income is at or below the current income guidelines for your household size and meet all other non-financial requirements. The benefit amounts will vary depending on your household income, fuel type, and if a vulnerable member (Disabled, Child under the age of 6, or an individual age 60 years or older) is in your household. You may be eligible for a regular benefit even if you have money in the bank, stocks, bonds or other resources.
Follow the link below to view current HEAP income guidelines:
https://otda.ny.gov/programs/apply/#heap
How to apply:
- Apply online via www.Mybenefits.ny.gov
- In person at Rockland County Department of Social services HEAP Unit, 50 Sanatorium Rd. Bldg. L, Pomona NY 10970
- By Mail to the address above.
- By Phone. Call HEAP Unit at 845-364-3486
2. EMERGENCY HEAP (January 3, 2023 - March 15, 2023)
You may be eligible for a HEAP Emergency Benefit if your gross household monthly income is at or below the current income guidelines, you do not have available liquid resources greater than $2,000 or $3,000 if the household contains an individual age 60 or older, and meet all other non-financial requirements.
You must also be in an emergency situation as defined below:
- Your natural gas or electric service for heat or heat-related electric service is terminated or scheduled for termination;
- You have less than ¼ tank of oil, kerosene or propane;
- You have less than a ten-day supply of any other deliverable fuel source.
- You can fax your termination notice to 845-364-3130 or email RocklandHeap@dfa.state.ny.us
- Include a case number and a telephone number. You will be contacted for a phone interview.
3. HEATING EQUIPMENT REPAIR & REPLACEMENT [HERR] (October 3, 2022 - September 30, 2023 or until available funds are exhausted)
HERR is a benefit available to assist homeowners in repairing or replacing primary heating equipment when the equipment is inoperable or unsafe and is in need of repair or replacement. The applicant for the HERR component must be the homeowner. Your household's gross monthly income is at or below the current income guidelines for your household size, not have available resources over $3,000 and meet all other non-financial requirements.
You may not apply online.
Contact HEAP at 845-364-3486 for a HERR program screening.
4. HEAP COOLING ASSISTANCE (May 1, 2023 - August 31, 2023)
Cooling Assistance is a benefit available to assist with the purchase and installation of air conditioners and fans for HEAP eligible households.
You may not apply online.
Contact HEAP at 845-364-3486 for a HEAP Cooling program screening.
5. HEAP CLEAN & TUNE (October 3, 2022 – September 30, 2023 or until available funds are exhausted)
Clean & Tune assistance is a benefit available to HEAP eligible homeowners to have their primary heating system cleaned and tuned by a Department of Social Services Heating Equipment Replace & Repair Vendor. The Heating System must be at least 12 months old, not have been cleaned within the last 12 months, and must be operational. If you received Regular HEAP during the past HEAP season, attest that your household income has not increased by more than $200/month and no change in your household composition, you can over the phone by calling 845-364-3486.
6. LOW INCOME HOUSEHOLD WATER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (December 1, 2021 – until funds are exhausted)
The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) can help pay overdue water and wastewater bills. Applications can be submitted online or by mail beginning December 1.
LIHWAP is a drinking water and wastewater emergency assistance program funded with $69.8 million through the federal Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 and the American Rescue Plan of 2021. Benefits are based on the amount of unpaid water and wastewater bills owed by applicants and could go as high as $2,500 for each service. This assistance is targeted at low-income households, particularly those who pay a high proportion of their income for drinking water and wastewater services, and income guidelines will mirror that of the Home Energy Assistance Program.
LIHWAP benefits are based on the actual amount of drinking water and/or wastewater arrears, up to a maximum of $2,500 per drinking water or wastewater provider, or $5,000 if drinking water and wastewater services are combined, per household. Benefits are paid directly to the household's drinking water and/or wastewater vendor(s).
On October 1, 2022, a new program year will begin and households may be eligible for additional assistance even if they have already received a LIHWAP benefit in the past.
A list of documents that are needed to apply can be found here: LIHWAP Document Checklist
For more information and to apply, visit https://otda.ny.gov/LIHWAP Online applications can be submitted 24 hours/day, 7 days/week or you can apply by printing a LIHWAP Application and mail or fax it to:
NYS LIHWAP
PO Box 1789
Albany, NY 12201
Fax: (518) 486-1259
Housing
Contact the Housing Unit at (845) 364-3150 or Email: RocklandHousing@dfa.state.ny.us.
Housing staff offers comprehensive services to those families and individuals potentially facing homelessness. The goal is to address and ultimately eliminate the crisis or urgent circumstances surrounding the homeless individual or family. When an emergency housing placement is diverted, these cases are retained until issues such as domestic violence, substance abuse, lack of employment, mental health, and childcare are addressed. Casework counseling and referral to needed services are provided on an ongoing basis.
Housing is notified of all eviction notices, utility disconnects and residential Health Department violations. Staff meets with individuals and family members in an attempt to help them retain safe and affordable housing. In many instances, home visits are conducted to insure that frail, elderly and minor children's health and safety needs are met. Emphasis is placed on maintaining family stability and in protecting the health and safety of all individuals at risk.
Housing staff also communicates with attorneys and landlords to prevent impending evictions. Staff negotiates payments of rent arrears, seeks out rent subsidies, explores housing alternatives, and secures permanent housing for the homeless.
Emergency Housing Vouchers
Emergency housing vouchers are a federal subsidy program that helps qualified, low-income and
homeless tenants pay rent.
EHV guide for owners and landlords
The main contact number for EHV is (845) 364-3792.
2021-2022 Rockland County Rental Supplement Program Plan
Rockland County's Rental Supplement Program (RSP) is a program established to provide vital rental assistance to individuals and families, regardless of immigration status, who are experiencing homelessness or are facing an imminent loss of housing. The RSP is available to individuals and families both with and without children.
Program Eligibility and Program Requirements:
- Eligible participants are individuals and/or families, both with and without children, who are experiencing homelessness or facing an imminent loss of housing, regardless of immigration status.
- Households must earn no more than 50% of area median income (AMI) at the time of application based on location and household size, with initial priority given to households who earn no more than 30% of AMI.
- Rental supplement amounts shall be set at 85% of local Fair Market Rent (FMR) values.
- A household's financial contribution will be limited to 30% of their household's total earned and/or unearned income.
- Supplements are to be provided until the household's income reaches 30% or more of their monthly rent, at which point the housing will be considered affordable for the individual/family and the supplement will end; and,
- Receipt of TA is not a requirement for determining eligibility for the RSP.
| Rooms | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| 2022 FMR | $2,018.00 | $2,054.00 | $2,340.00 | $2,952.00 | $3,173.00 | $3,649.00 | $4,125.00 | $4,601.00 |
| 85% FMR | $1,715.30 | $1,745.90 | $1,989.00 | $2,509.20 | $2,697.05 | $3,101.65 | $3,506.25 | $3,910.85 |
| Household size: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| 50% - AMI | $41,800 | $47,750 | $53,700 | $59,650 | $64,450 | $69,200 | $74,000 | $78,750 |
| 30% - AMI | $28,000 | $32,000 | $36,000 | $40,000 | $43,200 | $46,400 | $49,600 | $52,800 |
For more information, please call the Emergency Housing Unit at 845-364-3150.
Medical Assistance
Contact the Medicaid Unit at (845) 364-3040 or Email: RocklandMedicaid@dfa.state.ny.us.
The local Rockland County Department of Social Services' Medicaid Unit processes Medicaid applications for residents who are:
- Medicare recipients.
- 65 years old or older who are not caretakers for children under 18 years of age.
- Looking for assistance with the cost of Home Care, Assisted Living Facility or Nursing Home Care.
- Disabled adults and children eligible for the Excess Income Program.
- Disabled adults and children applying for specialized waiver programs.
- Eligible for help paying for Medicare premiums and/or co-pays through the Medicare Savings Program.
All other persons looking for medical insurance must apply for health insurance (including public health insurance programs like Medicaid and Child Health Plus) through the New York State of Health.
How do I apply for Medicaid?
Those meeting the criteria listed above for local processing may drop off a completed application, supplement A and supporting documents at the Rockland County Department of Social Services, Building L, 50 Sanatorium Road, Pomona, New York 10970 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. If you need assistance completing your application you can call 845-364-3092 or come to building L any Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm. Individuals may also mail in their application, supplemental A and supporting documents to the Department of Social Services at the above address, attention Medicaid Unit.
Applicants who are applying through the New York State of Health have 3 options:
- Apply online at nystateofhealth.ny.gov.
- Call the New York State of Health at 1-855-355-5777, Monday – Friday between 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Customer Service Representatives can take over-the-phone applications.
- Check the nystateofhealth.ny.gov website for contact information for in-person assistance provided by Navigators and Certified Application Counselors located throughout the community.
What do I do if I have to apply for expedited Personal Care Services/Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Services?
Please see our Informational Notice and Attestation Form for more details.
Important Notice to ALL Medicaid and Medicare Savings Program Recipients
When the COVID- 19 public health emergency ends, New York State will resume eligibility reviews and renewals for those individuals who are currently enrolled in health insurance through Medicaid, Child Health Plus or the Essential Plan. In preparation for these changes you should verify that the New York State of Health or Rockland County Medicaid office has your current mailing address and phone number so you can be contacted when it is time to renew your health insurance.
If you are receiving Medicaid through the New State of Health and need to provide updated information:
- Call NY State of Health at 1-855-355-5777 (TTY: 1-800-662-1220)
- Log into your account at nystateofhealth.ny.gov or
- Contact an enrollment assistor
If you are enrolled in Medicaid or the Medicare Savings Program through the Rockland County Department of Social Services and need to provide updated information:
- Call the Rockland County Medicaid Office at 845-364-3040 or
- Email us at RocklandMedicaid@dfa.state.ny.us.
Temporary Assistance
Contact the Temporary Assistance Unit at (845) 364-3032 or Email: RocklandDTA@dfa.state.ny.us.
Temporary Assistance provides temporary help to needy men, women and children that are unable to work or are working in a job that pays less than the poverty level. Depending on individual case circumstances, cash benefits are issued under the Federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or the New York State Safety Net Assistance guidelines. Cash benefits are issued through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card. Please click here for instructions on how to access cash from your Card. The Temporary Assistance Unit also determines eligibility for Medicaid and Food Stamps for Temporary Assistance applicants and recipients.
We are available to conduct a prescreening for Temporary Assistance Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm. For your convenience, you can send documentation requested by your Caseworker to our email address @ RocklandDTA@dfa.state.ny.us or you can ask a question you have regarding the application process. This e-mail cannot be used to apply for Temporary Assistance."
Temporary Assistance applicants/recipients who have an immediate need for Personal Care Services/Consumer Directed Personal Care Services should see information in the Medicaid section above.
Click here to view a Fact Sheet on Temporary Assistance Temporary_Assistance_Fact_Sheet.pdf
See also: Employment
Eligibility Screening - My Benefits
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To check initial eligibility for Childcare Subsidies, HEAP, Medicaid, SNAP and Temporary Assistance, as well as several other programs and tax credits, please log on to New York State's MyBenefit's website.
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In addition to information about various programs, this site contains application information and an eligibility screening feature.
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Final eligibility is determined by the Department of Social Services at the time of application.