Starting from July 28th, the cash assistance for low-income residents in New York City will resume the pre-epidemic rule of “work for benefits.” Those receiving the aid must prove they are either employed, actively job-hunting, participating in training programs, or pursuing education; otherwise, they will not be able to continue receiving benefits.
The Gothamist website reported that on July 15th, the Department of Social Services sent an email notifying social welfare agencies that the “work for benefits” rule for cash assistance for low-income individuals or homeless people will be reinstated starting on July 28th. Recipients of the benefits must prove they are employed, actively seeking employment, participating in training, or enrolled in school to continue receiving aid. Neha Sharma, a spokesperson for the Department of Social Services, stated that the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) had long instructed local governments to reinstate the work requirement for benefits. Due to the record number of individuals currently receiving cash assistance in the city, the Department decided to resume the work requirement to exclude those who do not meet the criteria and prioritize aid for new applicants in need.
The cash assistance program provides monthly financial aid to low-income residents to help meet their basic needs. Single adults in New York City can receive $183 per month, while a family of three with children can receive $389 per month. Both federal and New York State laws have the “work for benefits” requirement. Four years ago, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, New York City temporarily suspended the work requirement, leading to a significant increase in the number of individuals receiving this aid. According to the latest statistics from the city, in May of this year, over 550,000 people were receiving cash assistance benefits, significantly higher than the 400,000 recipients in May 2020.
Those whose cash assistance has been terminated can appeal to the Department of Social Services by providing evidence of employment or reasons for work exemption, such as caregiving responsibilities, medical treatment, or other valid reasons, to have their benefits reinstated. Sharma mentioned that the Department is streamlining the appeals process and allowing more time for appellants to prove their eligibility for work exemption. Failure to submit proof within the designated timeframe may result not only in the loss of cash assistance but also could potentially lead to the forfeiture of food stamps, housing subsidies, and other benefits.