New York Senior Benefits Guide
New York State has some of the most comprehensive benefit programs for older adults in the country. From prescription drug assistance to property tax relief, many programs are designed specifically for New Yorkers age 60 and older.
Food Assistance Programs
New York seniors can access food assistance through federal benefits and a statewide food bank network.
- SNAP Food Assistance
Monthly food benefits on an EBT card. Apply through your local Department of Social Services or online at mybenefits.ny.gov. Seniors 60+ often qualify under expanded income rules.
- Local Food Banks and Pantries
Free groceries through the Food Bank of New York City, Feeding New York State member banks, and community pantries. No income test at most locations.
Medical Cost Assistance
New York offers several programs to help seniors manage Medicare costs and prescription drug expenses.
- Medicare Extra Help
Reduces Medicare Part D drug costs. Apply through Social Security or your local Department of Social Services.
- Medicare Savings Programs
New York's Medicaid program can pay Medicare premiums and reduce cost-sharing for eligible seniors.
- EPIC — Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (opens in a new tab)
New York's state program that helps seniors 65+ pay for prescription drugs. EPIC works alongside Medicare Part D to reduce costs further. Apply through the NY Department of Health.
- HIICAP — Free Medicare Counseling (opens in a new tab)
New York's Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program provides free unbiased Medicare counseling. Call 1-800-701-0501.
Energy Bill Assistance
New York has both federal and state-enhanced energy assistance programs to help seniors pay heating and utility bills.
- LIHEAP / HEAP Energy Assistance
New York's Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is one of the most generous in the country. It helps pay heating bills and may cover emergency energy costs. Apply through your local Department of Social Services.
- Utility Company Assistance Programs
Con Edison, National Grid, and other New York utilities offer low-income discount and bill assistance programs. Contact your utility company directly.
Property Tax Relief
New York offers meaningful property tax relief for homeowners age 65 and older through the Enhanced STAR program.
- Senior Property Tax Relief
New York seniors may qualify for county and local property tax exemptions in addition to the Enhanced STAR program.
- Enhanced STAR Property Tax Exemption (opens in a new tab)
New York homeowners 65+ with qualifying income receive an enhanced school tax exemption worth $600–$1,200 or more per year depending on the county. Register through the NY Department of Taxation and Finance.
Transportation Programs
New York seniors can access transportation programs including reduced-fare transit and local aging agency services.
- Senior Transportation Programs
Free or reduced-cost rides through local Area Agencies on Aging. NYC seniors also qualify for the Reduced-Fare MetroCard. Call 1-800-677-1116 to find programs in your area.
See What Benefits You May Qualify For
Answer a few simple questions and we'll show you programs available in New York matched to your situation. It takes about two minutes.
Use the Benefits FinderImportant: This page provides general information only. Program details, income limits, and availability change over time. Always verify eligibility directly with the official program or agency.