Financial Relief
Amid school and business closings, many families are experiencing financial stress. Look into the news and resources below for free services and financial relief.
Know your rights
- No student or medical debt collection until April 16: The New York State Attorney General's Office announced it will suspend collection of student and medical debt until April 16. The policy will also halt interest accrual on these loans. Find out more »
- No waiting period for unemployment benefits: New York State is waiving the seven-day waiting period for unemployment benefits. If you've lost your job as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, File a claim online »
Free services
- Mental health hotline: The state created a hotline staffed by mental health professionals for New Yorkers to call if they need emotional support. The number is 844-863-9314.
- Get free, confidential mental health help from home: NYC Well provides free, confidential mental health help from licensed counselors to New Yorkers in crisis. Talk to someone on the phone, via chat or via text. Check it out »
- Free internet access: Most internet providers are providing free internet access for 60 days to support families social distancing to stop the spread of the coronavirus. See a guide to free internet in English and Spanish »
And, New York City public school students can get free internet access from Spectrum while schools are closed. Call 844-488-8398 to sign up.
- Get tenant support over the phone: If you're facing housing issues related to the coronavirus crisis, get free advice over the phone »
- Free delivery of groceries and supplies: Volunteers across the city are delivering groceries, medication and other necessities to elderly and otherwise at-risk residents. Get a delivery or sign up to volunteer »
- Mutual aid: Request help or submit an offer to help others using the NYC mutual aid network »