How to apply for New York Veterans Emergency Housing Assistance Fund (Up to $2,000)

Who it's for

New York's Veterans Emergency Housing Assistance Fund pays up to $2,000 to a veteran facing an immediate housing hardship without the money to cover it. Covered needs include overdue rent, utilities, or property taxes; fire or natural-disaster damage; temporary shelter when housing is lost or uninhabitable; replacing or repairing an essential appliance like a furnace or water heater; and home changes needed for disability access. The veteran must live in New York State, have a discharge other than dishonorable, and have a net worth at or below the VA's limit for the non-service-connected pension. After the application is submitted, a Veterans Benefits Advisor calls to verify the emergency and the household's income, assets, and expenses — and checks for other benefits the household may qualify for.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or other proof of veteran status (discharge other than dishonorable)
• Completed application with a clear explanation of the housing emergency
• Income and assets worksheet plus proof of household income
• Documentation of the emergency (overdue rent or utility notice, repair estimate, damage records)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about New York Veterans Emergency Housing Assistance Fund (Up to $2,000). 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 dd-214 or other proof of veteran status (discharge other than dishonorable), completed application with a clear explanation of the housing emergency, income and assets worksheet plus proof of household income — 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.

Step by step

1. Confirm you meet the basic requirements: you must live in New York State, have a discharge other than dishonorable, and have a net worth at or below the VA's limit for the non-service-connected pension.
2. Gather your DD-214 or other proof of veteran status showing a discharge other than dishonorable.
3. Collect proof of your housing emergency — such as an overdue rent or utility notice, a repair estimate, or damage records.
4. Complete the income and assets worksheet and gather proof of all household income and assets.
5. Write a clear explanation of your housing emergency to include with your application.
6. Apply online or by phone at 1-888-838-7697 through the New York State Department of Veterans' Services (DVS).

What to expect: After submitting your application, a Veterans Benefits Advisor will call to verify the housing emergency and review your household's income, assets, and expenses. The Advisor will also check whether your household may qualify for other benefits. The fund is intended for immediate housing hardships, so be ready to provide clear documentation of the need. Awards are based on documented need and go up to $2,000. Processing times vary — ask the Advisor for an estimate when they contact you. There is no renewal for this program, as it is designed to address a one-time emergency housing hardship.