Benefits for Undocumented Immigrants in NYC (2025)

Thousands of undocumented immigrants make New York City their home every day. Many of these individuals may wonder if there are benefits for undocumented immigrants in NYC. Under the NYC Human Resources Administration (HRA) and Department of Social Services, everyone has the right to seek and apply for benefits. You do not have to be a legal permanent resident or US citizen to be eligible for necessary benefits and services.

In NYC, the personal information of anyone seeking city services remains confidential, even if you are living here as an undocumented immigrant. The Human Resources Administration will not report your personal information to anyone unless they are required to do so by law.

Undocumented immigrants in NYC may be eligible for certain public benefits and can apply for these benefits on behalf of their children as well. When seeking public benefits as an undocumented immigrant, it can be crucial to have legal guidance. An NYC immigration lawyer from Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco can help you navigate what benefits are available to you, as well as address and of your immigration needs     .

Undocumented Immigrants in NYC

In New York City, undocumented immigrants can sometimes also be referred to as illegal aliens. You may qualify as an undocumented immigrant if you entered the United States without the permission of the government. The following individuals can also be considered “undocumented” in NYC:

• Those who have entered the United States without presenting themselves for inspection at a designated checkpoint in order to obtain permitted entrance into the country.
• Those who have entered the United States with legal status, such as individuals on student visas, and then remain in the country past the duration of their permitted stay or the expiration of their visa.
• Those who have been allowed a temporary reprieve from deportation due to the federal government program of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals.
• Those who are currently pursuing legalization through an asylum petition, spousal petition, or official US citizenship but currently do not hold legal status.
• Those whose immigration status is currently in limbo or whose immigration status puts them at risk of being targeted by certain law enforcement agencies.

As an undocumented immigrant, you can face removal proceedings or even possible deportation if you are arrested by the police or detained by immigration authorities. Qualifying individuals may be frightened to pursue necessary public benefits, such as Medicaid or cash assistance, for this very reason, but you are protected under certain city laws. No matter your immigration status, you have the right to seek these benefits for yourself and your children.

Benefits Available to Undocumented Immigrants in NYC

There are many public benefits available to individuals regardless of their immigration status, including the following:

• New York State Medicaid (only for pregnant individuals)
• Section 8 housing, in some cases
• Head Start programs
• Free school meals
• Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits
• Prenatal Care Assistance Program (PCAP)
• Certain forms of cash assistance to obtain items such as clothing or toiletries

How To Apply for Certain Benefits as an Undocumented Immigrant

There are several steps you must take in order to apply for benefits such as cash assistance or Medicaid as an undocumented immigrant. These can include the following:

• Visit your local Human Resources Administration and state that you wish to apply for cash assistance. Keep in mind that Medicaid benefits are included in this application.
• The HRA will then provide you with the necessary forms to fill out and assist you in your primary language. They are legally bound to offer you this application and cannot turn you away based on your immigration status.
• Complete your required HRA interview. You can request to do so on the same day you receive your application paperwork.
• You should then ask the HRA office to supply you with a temporary EBT card or the card you will use to access your cash assistance once your application is approved. You can request that the HRA provide you with a PIN number to use the card even if cash is not readily available that same day.

FAQs

Begin the Process of Obtaining Public Assistance Benefits as an Undocumented Immigrant

Legal assistance can be vital when seeking to obtain certain public assistance benefits in NYC as an undocumented immigrant. Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco is one of the oldest immigration law firms in NYC, and we are here to help you navigate the process of receiving necessary benefits. Contact our offices today for more information.

About The Author

Conrad E. Pollack

Conrad E. Pollack is the Managing Partner and Director of Immigration at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from New York University and earned his J.D. from Brooklyn Law School. With over three decades of experience in immigration law, Conrad has helped countless clients achieve their American Dream. Under his leadership, PPID has expanded significantly, opening new offices in Peekskill and Brooklyn, NY. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and has been recognized for his professional excellence with numerous awards and distinctions. Education: Magna Cum Laude graduate from New York University; J.D. from Brooklyn Law School. Awards: Recipient of numerous professional excellence awards. Memberships: Active member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

View all posts by Conrad E. Pollack →