NYC Urges 26,500 Residents Who Lost SNAP Benefits to Reapply for More Aid

The Mamdani administration is pushing to reconnect roughly 26,500 New Yorkers with SNAP food benefits after new federal work requirements cost them their aid earlier this year. A measure passed by Congressional Republicans and President Trump in 2025 requires SNAP recipients to demonstrate they are working, volunteering, or in school to keep benefits beyond three months. The rules took effect this year, with recipients losing assistance beginning in June following a three-month grace period. Groups newly subject to the requirements include people aging out of foster care, older adults, and homeless New Yorkers.

Because certain SNAP restrictions reset every three years, October marks a fresh start: anyone who lost benefits can reapply and receive at least three more months of assistance. The city's Department of Social Services, led by Commissioner Erin Dalton, plans to intensify phone banking, door-knocking, and community outreach — particularly targeting New Yorkers aged 18 to 30, who make up the majority of those who failed to comply. More than 300,000 people were subject to the rules overall, and the city helped tens of thousands maintain their benefits or file exemptions by coordinating with hospitals and universities.

Anyone seeking help can call 718-SNAP-NOW (718-762-7669), check the Access HRA app, or visit nyc.gov/AccessHRA. Also starting October 1, the federal government is shifting more SNAP administrative costs to states; New York City alone faces an additional $111 million, according to food rescue group City Harvest.