Temporary Assistance Division | Albany County Department of Social Services (DSS)

Offers temporary help for individuals and families in need while they work towards self sufficiency. Will assist with security deposit or first month's rent, but not both. Responsible for paying for and assisting in the scheduling of burials for residents of Albany County who die without funds or family to arrange and pay for a burial.Family Assistance (FA) provides money for families with children. Cash benefits are limited to five years in a recipient's lifetime. After five years, a Family Assistance recipient may continue to receive benefits if an adult is disabled and cannot work or may be required to apply for assistance through the Safety Net category.Safety Net Assistance (SNA) provides money for basic living expenses for single adults and childless couples (or families who have used up their five-year limit of FA). Cash benefits are limited to two years in a recipient's lifetime. After two years, the non-cash Safety Net Assistance voucher system provides benefits.Emergency Temporary Assistance through Emergency Assistance for Families (EAF) or Emergency Safety Net Assistance (ESNA) provides assistance for crisis situations including evictions, moving expenses, utility shutoffs, and diversion payments to help individuals avoid the need for ongoing assistance. Individuals do not need to be on public assistance to receive Emergency Temporary Assistance.