Navigating social services can be complex, but the New York City Human Resources Administration (HRA) offers multiple avenues for you to access the assistance you need. Whether you are looking for information about your case, applying for benefits, or need to submit documents, understanding the best way to contact HRA is crucial. This guide provides comprehensive contact information, including details about utilizing the ACCESS HRA online portal, phone assistance, in-person visits, and how to reach specific departments at locations like 150 Greenwich Street and other service points.
Digital Access with ACCESS HRA
In today’s digital age, managing your HRA case online is more convenient than ever. ACCESS HRA is a powerful online portal designed to give you real-time access to your case information and allow you to make necessary updates from the comfort of your home.
If you have an ACCESS HRA account linked to your HRA case profile, you can effortlessly:
- Monitor your case status: Stay informed about the progress of your application or the current status of your ongoing case.
- Review important notices and upcoming appointments: Never miss critical deadlines or appointments with direct access to your schedule and notifications.
- Check payment history: Keep track of payments made to landlords or utility companies on your behalf, ensuring transparency and financial clarity.
- Access document lists: Easily see which documents HRA requires from you and review documents you have already submitted, including those uploaded via the ACCESS HRA mobile app within the last 100 days and documents submitted to HRA in the past 60 days.
- Request a budget letter: Obtain necessary budget verification documents quickly and efficiently.
- Update your contact information: Ensure your details are always current so you never miss important communications from HRA.
Visit the official ACCESS HRA page for detailed information and to create your account.
Phone Assistance: DSS OneNumber
For immediate assistance and information about various HRA programs, the DSS OneNumber is your central point of contact. By calling 718-557-1399, you can connect with specialists who can guide you through different services.
Listen carefully to the main menu options to direct your call to the appropriate department:
- Press 1 for Cash Assistance information, including SNAP and Medicaid, and One Shot Deals for emergency bill assistance (rent, utilities).
- Press 2 for specific inquiries about SNAP benefits only.
- Press 3 for information related to Medicaid or public health insurance options.
- Press 4 for guidance on Housing or Rent Assistance programs.
- Press 5 if you require disability accommodations or assistance.
- Press 6 to report complaints, concerns, or to contact the Bureau of Fraud Investigations.
- Press 7 for information about other HRA programs not listed above.
You can also explore the I Need Help section of the HRA website for program details. Additionally, NYC 311 can provide general HRA program information through their website or by dialing 3-1-1.
In-Person Support
For those who prefer face-to-face interaction or require in-person services, HRA locations are available throughout the city.
Find the nearest HRA location to you by visiting the HRA locations page.
Email Communication
While phone and online portals are often the quickest routes, email provides another avenue for contacting specific HRA offices.
- Email the Commissioner: For high-level inquiries or feedback, you can reach out to the Commissioner directly.
- Contact the DSS Press Office: For media inquiries or press-related matters, email the DSS Press Office at [email protected].
Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) Requests and 150 Greenwich Street
The Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) ensures public access to government records in New York State. For HRA records, all FOIL requests should be submitted electronically through the NYC OpenRecords portal (nyc.gov/openrecords). Select “Human Resources Administration (HRA)” from the agency dropdown menu to direct your request appropriately.
Alt text: Open Records logo for NYC government transparency initiative, emphasizing public access to information.
For official correspondence related to FOIL, including submissions and appeals, please note the 150 Greenwich Street address:
HRA’s Records Access Officer:
Samantha Arena, Esq.
Associate General Counsel
150 Greenwich Street, 38th Fl.
New York, NY 10007
[email protected]
HRA’s Records Appeals Officer:
Ann Marie Scalia, Esq.
Records Appeals Officer
150 Greenwich Street, 38th Fl.
New York, NY 10007
[email protected]
For questions about existing FOIL requests, utilize the “Contact the Agency” link within the NYC OpenRecords portal. Remember that confidential client records are not accessible via FOIL and require specific authorization for release.
Subpoenas and Legal Papers at 150 Greenwich Street
For legal matters requiring service of subpoenas or legal process, the designated location is 150 Greenwich Street. According to NY CPLR section 308(2), service must be made at the DSS Office of Legal Affairs subpoena window, located at:
150 Greenwich Street, 38th Floor
New York, NY 10007
The subpoena window is open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays. Service must be completed in person at this location or as legally mandated. Note: DSS encompasses both the NYC Human Resources Administration and the NYC Department of Homeless Services.
Requesting Client Records
To request your own client records or act on behalf of someone else, a signed authorization form is mandatory. Additional identity verification may be required.
For Medicaid records specifically, use the OCA-960 Authorization for Release of Health Information Pursuant to HIPAA or another HIPAA-compliant form. Submit requests and forms via email to [email protected]. Include sufficient information (name, date of birth, relevant time period) to facilitate record retrieval.
General client record inquiries can be directed to [email protected]. If acting on behalf of another individual, ensure you provide valid proof of authority, such as Power of Attorney or Guardianship Commission papers.
Public Solicitation Licenses
Nonprofit organizations seeking to solicit donations in NYC require Public Solicitation Licenses administered by HRA. This applies to various fundraising activities, both indoor and outdoor. Event producers planning solicitations for services, products, or charities at their events should also apply for these licenses.
Contacting the DSS Office of Disability Affairs at 150 Greenwich Street
HRA is committed to accessibility. If you need assistance with your application, recertification, or program requirements due to a disability, HRA offers support and accommodations.
Visit the Disability Access page for comprehensive information.
For disability-related complaints or discrimination concerns within HRA, contact the Office of Disability Affairs:
Office of Disability Affairs
Jennifer Shaoul
Executive Director of Disability Affairs / Disability Service Facilitator
Human Resources Administration
150 Greenwich Street – 42nd Floor
New York, NY 10007
Fax: 212-437-2161
Email: [email protected]
You can also reach out through the DSS OneNumber at 718-557-1399 for disability-related assistance.
Conclusion
HRA provides multiple channels to ensure you can access the services and information you need. From the convenience of the ACCESS HRA portal to direct phone assistance and in-person locations, HRA strives to be accessible to all New Yorkers. For specific legal and official matters, 150 Greenwich Street serves as a key location, housing the FOIL offices, subpoena services, and the Office of Disability Affairs. Utilize this guide to find the most efficient way to contact HRA and get the support you deserve.
