Benefits · Home Care
How to apply for Expanded In-home Services for the Elderly Program (EISEP) — New York
New York State Office for the Aging, delivered by county Offices for the Aging / Area Agencies on Aging
Who it's for
EISEP pays for help at home for New Yorkers aged 60 and older who need a hand with everyday activities and want to stay in their own home. It covers personal care such as dressing and bathing, and household help such as shopping, cooking and light housekeeping. It is built for people who are NOT eligible for Medicaid, so it fills the gap for those whose income is too high for Medicaid but who still cannot manage alone or pay privately. You contribute toward the cost on a sliding scale set by your income and the cost of the services you use. Your county Office for the Aging runs the programme and arranges an assessment. Call your county office, or NY Connects on 1-800-342-9871.
Two things decide this beyond your age. First, EISEP is for people who are NOT eligible for Medicaid — if you already have Medicaid, your in-home care comes through Medicaid instead, so this programme does not apply to you. Second, you must need help with everyday activities, which a county assessor decides at an in-home assessment, not something this check can judge. You will be asked to pay a share of the cost on a sliding scale based on your income and the services you use, so it is not free for most people. Each county runs its own programme with its own funding, so availability and waiting lists vary. Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final decision.
What you'll need
- An in-home assessment arranged by your county Office for the Aging
- Proof of income, used to set your share of the cost
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-800-342-9871
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Expanded In-home Services for the Elderly Program (EISEP) — New York. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need an in-home assessment arranged by your county Office for the Aging, proof of income, used to set your share of the cost — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
ongoing, with periodic reassessment
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.