FHEPS Program Guide
The Family Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement (FHEPS) is a rental assistance program in New York City designed to help families and individuals who are facing homelessness or eviction.
The program provides financial assistance to eligible households so they can remain in their current housing or secure a new apartment. FHEPS is administered by the New York City Human Resources Administration (HRA).
FHEPS is one of several rental assistance programs available in NYC to help residents maintain stable housing and avoid entering the shelter system.
What Does FHEPS Stand For?
FHEPS stands for:
Family Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement
The program was created to support low-income households that are experiencing housing instability or are at risk of becoming homeless.
What Is the FHEPS Program?
FHEPS is a rental assistance program that helps eligible households pay rent in apartments across New York City.
The program may help:
- Prevent eviction
- Assist households leaving shelters
- Help families maintain stable housing
- Cover part of the monthly rent
- Provide rental arrears assistance in some situations
FHEPS payments are generally made directly to landlords.
Who Qualifies for FHEPS in NYC?
Eligibility for FHEPS depends on several factors, including:
Housing Situation
Applicants are generally:
- Facing eviction
- Experiencing homelessness
- Living in shelters
- At immediate risk of losing housing
Household Income
Households must meet income eligibility requirements established by NYC.
Public Assistance Status
Some applicants may need to receive cash assistance or meet other Human Resources Administration (HRA) requirements.
Family Composition
Families with children are commonly served through FHEPS, although eligibility rules may vary depending on household circumstances.
Because eligibility requirements can change, applicants should review the latest guidance from NYC Human Resources Administration (HRA).
What Assistance Does FHEPS Provide?
FHEPS may provide:
- Monthly rental assistance
- Rental arrears assistance
- Security deposit assistance in some situations
- Moving assistance for eligible households
The amount of assistance depends on:
- Household size
- Apartment rent
- Household income
- Program payment standards
Approved apartments must generally meet program requirements.
How to Apply for FHEPS in NYC
The application process may vary depending on a household’s situation.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Applicants should first determine whether they meet the program requirements.
Step 2: Contact HRA or Shelter Staff
People currently in shelters may work with shelter staff or case managers.
Households facing eviction may contact:
- NYC Human Resources Administration (HRA)
- Homebase offices
- Legal assistance organizations
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Applicants may need to provide:
- Identification documents
- Lease information
- Income verification
- Eviction notices if applicable
- Household information
- Public assistance documentation
Step 4: Apartment Review and Approval
If approved, the apartment may need to meet program standards before rental assistance begins.
Can FHEPS Help Prevent Eviction?
Yes. One of the main goals of the FHEPS program is to help prevent homelessness by assisting households that are at risk of eviction.
Eligible households may receive rental support that helps them stay in their current apartment or move to more affordable housing.
Residents facing eviction should seek assistance as early as possible.
What Is the Difference Between FHEPS and Section 8?
Although both programs provide rental assistance, they are different programs.
FHEPS
- NYC-funded rental assistance program
- Focuses on homelessness prevention and shelter transitions
- Administered by HRA
Section 8
- Federally funded housing voucher program
- Administered through NYCHA and HPD
- Allows eligible tenants to rent apartments in the private market
Each program has different eligibility requirements and application processes.
Important Things to Know About FHEPS
- FHEPS eligibility rules may change over time
- Assistance amounts depend on household circumstances
- Apartments must meet program requirements
- Participants may need to renew eligibility periodically
- Not all landlords accept rental assistance programs
- Households should respond quickly to HRA requests for documents or information
Applicants should always verify the latest information through official NYC resources.
Where to Get Help With FHEPS
NYC residents seeking assistance may contact:
- Human Resources Administration (HRA)
- Homebase homelessness prevention offices
- Shelter case managers
- Tenant advocacy organizations
- Legal services providers
People facing eviction should seek assistance immediately rather than waiting for court proceedings to advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is FHEPS only for families?
FHEPS commonly serves families with children, but eligibility may depend on household circumstances and current NYC program rules.
Can FHEPS help pay overdue rent?
In some situations, the program may help with rental arrears or eviction prevention assistance.
Do landlords have to approve FHEPS?
Landlords generally must agree to participate and the apartment must meet program requirements.
Can I apply for FHEPS online?
Application procedures may vary. Applicants should check with HRA or Homebase for current application instructions.
Is FHEPS permanent housing assistance?
Program duration and renewal requirements depend on household eligibility and NYC program rules.
Official NYC Resources
NYC Human Resources Administration (HRA) https://www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/cityfheps.page
NYC Housing Assistance Programs https://portal.311.nyc.gov/kacategory/?id=311-59
NYC Homebase Program https://www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/homebase.page
Disclaimer
Program requirements, eligibility rules, and application procedures may change. Readers should confirm the latest information directly through official NYC government agencies.