How it works
How CARE works
We do the hard parts. You stay in control.
- 01
Talk to us
Call or text, any time. Tell us about your home, your income and what you need. It takes 15 minutes and it is free.
- 02
We find your benefits
We check 175 New York programs. We explain each one in plain words and in your language.
- 03
We fill out and submit
We fill out the forms with you and organize your papers. You sign. We submit in a safe way.
- 04
We track and remind you
We follow your case. We text you before renewals so you never lose a benefit.
Three safe ways we submit
We always use one of these. You choose.
You sign, we send
You sign on paper or by e-signature. We upload or mail the form for you.
You name us your helper
For Medicaid, SNAP, HEAP and cash assistance, you can sign a form that names CARE as your authorized representative.
You log in, we guide
You log in to your own account. We sit with you, or stay on the phone, and type with you.
What we never do
- We never log in with your username or password.
- We never sign a form for you.
- We never take part of your benefit.
- We never take money from health plans, home care agencies or landlords for sending you to them.
- We never promise you will be approved.
What to have ready
- A photo ID
- Proof of address (a bill or lease)
- Proof of income (pay stubs or award letters)
- Any letters you got from an agency
We remind you before renewals
Many benefits stop if you miss a renewal. We keep the dates for you.
Medicaid
Every 12 months now. Every 6 months for many adults from 2027.
SNAP
Every 6 to 36 months, with a check-in report.
SCRIE / DRIE
Every 2 years, with your lease.
HEAP
Each year. Opens in November.
CARE
Government benefits are free. You can apply on your own. CARE charges for the help.
We hold the price on your card. You are charged only when we submit. We never promise approval. The agency decides.