Temporary Housing Assistance Exit FAQs

Will all my DSS workers be updated with my new address?

It depends. Under the One Agency Rule, providing your new address to one unit at DSS means it should be available to all the other units at DSS. However, they do not always timely update each other. If you can, provide your new address to each of your workers.

Will my Temporary Assistance or Food Stamps change?

Usually yes, but only once your worker is notified of your new housing cost. You should provide your worker with a lease or shelter verification form to confirm your new housing cost. If you are also responsible for gas and electricity at your new residence, you should provide your worker with copies of your gas and/or electric bill so that the additional cost can be factored into your budget.

Will my rent and utilities be vouchered at my new residence?

Usually not, unless you have requested it or you have hit your month count limit.

For those receiving assistance through the SNA (Safety Net Assistance) program (usually people who live alone or without minor children), you can be on Temporary Assistance benefits for up to 24 months before your bill needs to be put on voucher.

For those receiving assistance through the FA (Family Assistance) program (usually those who live with their minor children), you can be on Temporary Assistance benefits for up to 60 months before your bill needs to be put on voucher. You can ask DSS to voucher your bills at any time. Provide your worker with a copy of your current utility bill or lease/shelter verification form if you haven’t already and ask to complete a restricted payment form.

Will DSS pay my security deposit?

Usually not. However, you can request they provide a security agreement instead. With a security agreement, you, your landlord, and DSS sign a contract. If, when you leave, there is no damage that would allow the landlord to access a security deposit, then you pay nothing. If there is such damage, DSS will pay your landlord up to the value of a security deposit and will then contact you for repayment. If the value of the damage exceeds the maximum potential value of a security deposit for that apartment (i.e., one month’s worth of rent), then your former landlord may pursue you for the difference in court.

If you are unable to find an apartment whose landlord will accept a security agreement, you can request a security deposit from DSS instead. They will need to contact the landlord whose apartment you are trying to rent to confirm that they will only accept a security deposit.

Will DSS continue to pay my storage unit rent?

No, DSS will stop paying your storage unit rent when you leave shelter. You will need to make arrangements to move your property out of your storage unit and into your new residence.

Can DSS assist with moving costs?

Yes, DSS has a moving assistance program. There is a very limited number of moving companies on their vendor list, so check here before you reach out to one.

Vendor List

Unlike with storage, DSS will only pay if you select one of the moving companies on their vendor list. To apply, let your THA worker know that you need moving assistance, fill out the application, and provide two estimates from vendors off the list.

What if my new residence is missing furniture or basic kitchen appliances?

DSS can provide you with a Household Establishment Grant (HEG) if your new residence doesn’t have certain items, like a stove, refrigerator, or bed. Please be aware that the amounts they offer are limited, are set by statute, and do not include delivery fees.

Will my child still be eligible for McKinney-Vento bussing?

No, the McKinney-Vento program is only for families that are currently homeless. You will need to register your child for school with your new address and ask the school for information on bussing.

What if ECDSS denies my application for moving assistance, a security agreement, or a HEG?

If you receive a notice from ECDSS denying benefits and you believe the determination is in error, you can:

• Call ECDSS Emergency Services at 716.858.6265 and ask a supervisor to review the determination.
• Call our office at 716.847.0650 and ask for the Public Benefits unit. We will review your case for possible representation.
• Request a Fair Hearing.

How do I request a Fair Hearing?

You can request a Fair Hearing by telephone, fax, Internet or mail.

If you have access to the Internet, you can send a request on-line:

Request a Hearing

You can send your request by mail to:

Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Office of Administrative Hearings

PO BOX 1930

Albany, N.Y. 12201-1930

You can send your request by fax to: 518.473.6735

You can make your request by phone at: 518.474.8781 or 800.342.3334 (toll free)

2026 Neighborhood Legal Services, Inc., Public Benefits Unit

Updated May 2026