Federal Government Shutdown

Programs overseen by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance – including Public Assistance and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – are not immediately affected by the federal government shutdown and are continuing to operate. Benefits will continue to be provided, and use of benefit cards are not impacted by the shutdown. Additionally, applications for these programs overseen by OTDA will continue to be accepted at this time. This message will be updated if additional information becomes available.

Last updated: October 1, 2025, 9:10 AM

Refugee Services (RS)

OTDA Home Programs & Services Refugee Services Information for Asylees

Information for Asylees

Have you recently been granted asylum?

The NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance through its contracted providers offer free services to asylees across New York State.

Visit a provider in your area that can assist you with:

  • Finding employment
  • Free health screening and immunizations
  • Accessing other support services

Do you need immigration assistance?

The NYS Office for New Americans (ONA) provides free and confidential services to all immigrants in New York State including:

  • Naturalization support and civics test preparation
  • Free legal services and direct representation
  • Informational community workshops and seminars
  • Mobile English Language Learning

To access any of the immigration assistance services, call the confidential, multi-lingual New York State New Americans Hotline at: 1-800-566-7636 (9am – 8pm, Monday-Friday)

To locate your nearest ONA provider and find out about free workshops & seminars visit: newamericans.ny.gov

View and print the asylee and immigration services palm card.

This page contains links to PDF documents. Download Acrobat Reader to view these documents.

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