FIND QUICK HELP

No. The calculator can’t submit applications.

It shows you:

• What benefits you may qualify for
• How changes like raises or job hours could affect your support

For applications, contact your county Department of Human Services or the agency that manages your specific program.

These documents are also needed for recertification with DHS:

• Photo ID
• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, award letters)
• Rent or mortgage info
• Childcare or medical expense records
• Social Security cards for household members

Enter your average monthly income into the calculator for the most accurate estimate.
If your hours fluctuate a lot, call DHS or your program office so your benefits aren’t suddenly reduced or stopped.

Rent is based on a percentage of your income. If your earnings change, report it to the Rochester Housing Authority right away to keep your rent amount accurate.

• Section 8: 585-697-6105
• Public Housing: 585-235-0447

Yes, but there are income limits. Some earnings may reduce your monthly amount, but you won’t lose eligibility right away.

• Call Social Security (800) 772-1213 or Visit SSA for details.

Each program uses its own rules:

• SNAP: Counts everyone who buys and cooks food together
• Medicaid: Counts tax dependents and household member

Use the calculator to see how your exact household situation affects your benefits.

Before you call:

• Have your case number or Social Security number ready
• Gather proof of income or expenses
• Write down your questions so nothing gets missed

If you want someone else (a family member, friend, or caseworker) to call for you, you may need to sign a consent form. Ask the agency for the correct form before the call.

Use the right number for your situation:

• Temporary Assistance (TA): 585-753-2750
• Medicaid: 585-753-2760
• SNAP: 585-753-2740
• Childcare Subsidy/Assistance: 585-753-6316
• Child Support: 888-208-4485
• Housing (Section 8/Public Housing): 585-697-6105 / 585-235-0447
• Taxes or Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC):
  • IRS Local Office: 844-545-5640
  • Free filing assistance (C.A.S.H.): 585-454-4060
  • Website: empirejustice.org/CASH
• Social Security (SSI/SSP): 800-772-1213
• Legal Help (LawNY): 315-781-1465

Tip: Have your ID, case number, and income details ready to save time.

Don’t give up. You may qualify for extra support:

• Visit MyWayfinder to see local resources
• Call 2-1-1 for immediate help with food, housing, or bills

• Use MyVirtual Counselor for private, online support with debt planning and budgeting
• For in-person help, contact a local nonprofit for free credit counseling
• For tax-related planning or Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) questions, call C.A.S.H. 585-454-4060 for free filing assistance

If a check hasn’t arrived, your benefits were reduced, or you’re having trouble understanding a decision:

• Start by calling your program office to confirm the reason
• If you need extra support, call LawNY 315-781-1465 for free legal help
• Bring your paperwork to speed up the review
• LawNY can also help you file an appeal or represent you during the process

If you want someone else (a family member, friend, or caseworker) to call for you, you may need to sign a consent form. Ask the agency for the correct form before the call.

Processing times vary:

• DHS benefits (SNAP, Medicaid, TA): 30 days
• Section 8: Depends on funding and waitlists
• SSI or SSDI: Several months

Keep copies of everything you submit and note the date so you can follow up if needed.

If you think a decision was wrong:

• Act quickly – appeals have strict deadlines
• Contact the agency that sent the notice
• Call LawNY (315-781-1465) for free legal advice and representation