Federal Government Shutdown

Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown and the lack of federal funding, the start of applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) has been delayed until further notice. The shutdown is not yet affecting other programs overseen by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance — including Public Assistance and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Applications for Public Assistance and SNAP are continuing to be accepted, benefits are being provided, and use of benefit cards are not impacted at this time. If the shutdown continues into November, benefits for SNAP could be delayed. This message will be updated as additional information becomes available.

Call your member of Congress now to let them know how these cuts would impact you, your family, and your community..

Last updated: October 23, 2025, 9:10 AM

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Fair Hearings

Fair Hearings

A Fair Hearing is a chance for you to tell a hearing officer from OTDA why you think a decision about your case made by a local social services agency is wrong.

OTDA will then issue a written decision which will state whether the local agency's decision was right or wrong. The written decision may order the local agency to correct your case.

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