Help aging out of foster care in New York
We've found 6 places in New York for people aging out of foster care, mostly in New York, and 5 that serve the whole state. Our volunteers haven't confirmed these yet, so a quick call ahead is worth it. Most of them help with benefits & cash (3), food (2) and id & documents (2).
What's different in New York
Since January 1, 2023, youth who were in another state's foster care at 18 or older and turned 18 on or after that date can get Medicaid without an income test until 26. Apply through NY State of Health and mark your former foster care status.
Youth in foster care have the right to stay in care after 18 until 21, and to ask to come back into care between 18 and 21.
From our guides, where every fact links to its official source.
Places in New York
211 New York
Free, confidential information and referral line covering food, housing, utilities, health and mental health, and substance use anywhere in the state. Dial 211 or text your ZIP code; a guided online search is at search.211newyork.org.
NYS Education and Training Voucher Program
Up to $5,000 a year toward college or vocational costs for young people who are or were in New York foster care. Apply online at etv-nys.smapply.org after filing the FAFSA; funding must start before age 21 and can run to age 26.
New York State Vital Records
Order a certified copy of a birth certificate for births outside New York City. Mail form DOH-4380 with $30 per copy and ID, or order online through the state's vendor for $45 plus a processing fee. Births in the five NYC boroughs are handled by the NYC Department of Health instead.
The Legal Aid Society
Free civil, criminal, and juvenile legal representation for low-income New York City residents, covering housing, public benefits, immigration, family matters, parole revocation, and more. Call the main line or browse topic pages at legalaidnyc.org/get-help.
Non-Driver ID Card
State photo ID for people who do not drive, available to anyone with lawful status in the U.S. Use the DMV's online pre-screening tool to see which proofs you need, then apply in person at a DMV office; a temporary document is issued on the spot and the card comes by mail.
myBenefits (SNAP, HEAP, Public Assistance)
Online portal to apply for SNAP food benefits, HEAP heating help, and cash assistance, and to screen for Medicaid and other programs. Households with little or no money may qualify for expedited SNAP within seven days; call the Temporary Assistance Hotline to find your local office.
National lines that work in New York
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 for any mental health or substance use crisis. Available to anyone in any program.
Lifeline free phone program
Free or discounted phone and service for people on Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, or low income. Apply online or through a carrier.