Family Assistance

What are the guidelines of the Family Assistance Program? 

• Adults who qualify for Family Assistance (FA) can only receive it for up to 60 months in their lifetime.
• Parents and adult relatives who are able to work must take part in work activities.
• Parents must help the Department of Social Services (DSS) find any parents who are not living with the children but who should be helping them. If a parent doesn't cooperate with the child support process without a good reason, they will lose their FA benefits.

How can I Apply for Family Assistance? 

• You can apply for Family Assistance (FA) at the Social Service office at 797 Broadway, Schenectady, or online.
• After you submit your application, you will have an interview scheduled Monday through Friday within 7 days.
• During the interview, you’ll need to bring documents to prove the information you provided in your application.
• You will get a decision on your application within 30 days.
• You’ll receive a letter in the mail telling you whether you qualify for assistance.
• If you qualify, you must tell the office about any changes in your family that could affect your assistance. You also have to follow the rules of the programs and have your eligibility reviewed regularly. This review process is called recertification.