Getting out of jail or prison
What to do first
- Get an ID. Start with a birth certificate and a Social Security card if you need them.
- Apply for Medicaid. You can apply any time of year.
- Apply for food benefits.
- If you got SSI or disability benefits before, call Social Security to start them again.
- If you have nowhere to stay tonight, call 211.
Talk it through
Tell us more about what happened. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.
Dates that matter
These windows are set by federal rules. Your state may have its own dates too, so ask the agency.
60 days
Health coverage
Getting out of jail or prison lets you sign up for a Marketplace plan. You have 60 days after release.
Source: HealthCare.gov
Help from New York
New York programs that fit what happened. Each agency decides who qualifies.
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Non-Driver Identification Cards
The DMV issues photo identification cards to residents who do not drive.
Ways to apply:PaperIn person
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Driver Licenses
The DMV issues and renews New York driver licenses.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaperIn person
New York State Department of Health
Vital Records
The Department of Health issues New York birth, death, marriage, and divorce records for eligible requests.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaperIn person
New York State Department of Health
Medicaid
Medicaid provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible New Yorkers.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
SNAP provides monthly food benefits to eligible households.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
New York State Homes and Community Renewal
Homeless Housing and Assistance Program
HHAP funds local projects that provide housing and services to people who are homeless.
New York State Homes and Community Renewal
Rental Assistance and Homelessness Prevention
HCR offers housing programs and resources that may help renters facing housing costs or instability.
New York State Office of Mental Health and New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports
Mental Health Services
Also: Addiction Services
OMH oversees mental health services and helps residents find treatment and support.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
Checked on October 8, 2026
Federal help
These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.
SSA.gov
Starting Social Security again
SSI and disability payments stop while someone is held in jail or prison. After release, contact Social Security to ask about starting them again.
CareerOneStop.org
Help finding work
CareerOneStop, from the U.S. Department of Labor, has job help for people with a record, including American Job Centers near you.
Social Security Administration
Replace a Social Security card
Get a free replacement Social Security card if yours was lost, stolen or damaged. Many people can ask online.
Request it online with a my Social Security account, or visit or call Social Security. It is always free.
Checked on October 9, 2026
Help near you
Find county and state offices near you, or call 211 to talk to someone about help in your area.
Talk to a person
- 211 New York
Free help finding food, housing, bills and more near you.
Call 211 - 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or worried about someone. Any time.
Call 988Text 988