NYC Budget Saves Program That Helps Immigrants Keep Benefits

NYC Saves NYCBenefits — But Only for One Year

Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the New York City Council reached a last-minute agreement on a $125.8 billion Fiscal Year 2027 budget that includes $11.7 million for NYCBenefits. The program helps low-income New Yorkers — including many immigrants — apply for and keep public benefits like SNAP (food stamps), health care, and housing assistance. The deal came after weeks of pressure from more than 40 community and anti-poverty groups who fought to keep the program alive after it was left out of the mayor's budget proposal in May.

NYCBenefits launched in 2023 as a partnership between the New York City Department of Social Services (DSS) and 35 community organizations. It offers help in 54 languages — far more than the city's own online benefits portal, ACCESS HRA, which covers fewer languages. More than 10,000 people who speak languages not available on ACCESS HRA have been served through the program. During Fiscal Year 2026, providers completed more than 26,000 benefit applications and recertifications. DSS Commissioner Erin Dalton told the City Council that SNAP applications submitted through NYCBenefits are 45% more likely to be approved than those filed without help.

The need for this kind of support has grown sharply. New federal work requirements under the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" — passed last summer — now apply to more SNAP recipients, including older adults. As of June 1, more than 43,000 New Yorkers were at risk of losing their SNAP benefits because of these new rules. About 450,000 New Yorkers, including immigrants and DACA recipients, lost their low-cost health insurance on July 1, 2026 due to federal policy changes. Advocates say immigrant families are especially confused by the shifting eligibility rules, age limits, and reporting requirements.

While providers welcomed the funding, they warned it is not enough. The city has not committed to funding NYCBenefits beyond Fiscal Year 2027. Advocates had asked for $9.75 million per year through 2032, plus an extra $5 million to expand services to youth and families. Julia Jean-Francois, executive director of the Center for Family Life, said: "If there is no commitment beyond next year, then the communities will once again become incredibly vulnerable."

What to Do

• If you receive SNAP benefits and are between 18 and 65, check whether the new federal work requirements apply to you. Contact a NYCBenefits provider in your area for free help in your language.
• If you lost health insurance on July 1, 2026, ask a community organization about other coverage options. NYCBenefits providers can help you understand what you may still qualify for.
• If you need help applying for or renewing SNAP, Medicaid, or other benefits, visit a NYCBenefits partner organization. They offer hands-on help — including translation — at no cost.
• If you are an immigrant unsure whether you qualify for public benefits, lawyers recommend speaking with an immigration attorney before applying, since some benefits can affect future immigration applications.