Resources for immigrants in New York

Free help with housing, legal services, health care, work, school and more, from the guides Documented's reporters research and keep up to date.

Ask in your own words, in English, Español, 中文 or Kreyòl. Try:

Guides for “ayuda para pagar la renta”

Clear search
English Updated Jul 9, 2026

Language Assistance Options for Immigrants in New York City

How can I get language assistance for housing?

Applying for affordable housing through Housing Connect requires applicants to create an online account before they can submit an application, and these processes can still be a barrier for many seniors who may not have access to digital tools or may not know …

How can I ask for help in my language?

When visiting or calling a City agency, for example at social welfare, Medicaid, or Food Stamp/SNAP offices, you can always request assistance in your language. New York City agencies have several documents in at least 10 languages (Spanish, Chinese, Russian, …

English Updated Oct 15, 2025

Unpaid Wages? Get Free Legal Aid for Employment Issues in NYC

Before you reach out to a lawyer

How to get in touch: Call (212) 613-5000. They are available Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. When calling, choose the option for a new case intake, then Employment Law Project, and leave a voice message. · Legal Services NYC · Legal Servi…

Before you reach out to a lawyer

Always be truthful about your immigration status. Many legal aid organizations offer assistance regardless of status, particularly for issues like wage claims or discrimination. · Check your eligibility first as some organizations prioritize low-income workers…

English Updated Sep 29, 2026

NYC’s Rent Freeze Program for Seniors Explained

Do I qualify for SCRIE?

…rent. · You live in the apartment and are named on the lease or rental agreement. · The apartment is rent-controlled or rent-stabilized, or you live in: · Certain Battery Park City and former Mitchell Lama properties · A limited Dividend Housing Company develo…

How much SCRIE actually freezes?

According to the Department of Finance, SCRIE will freeze your rent at either your prior rent amount or at one-third of your monthly income, whichever is greater. Here’s an example from their website: · To qualify, your rent must be more than one-third of your…

English Updated Apr 24, 2024

Wage Theft: What to Know If You Think Your Wages Are Stolen

Here are the various agencies in New York City and New York State to report potential wage theft:

If you are looking for community assistance regarding your potential wage theft case, here are some organizations in New York City that provide support with wage theft cases free of charge, legal or otherwise: · Workers Justice Project (WJP) · WJP is a NYC-bas…

Here are the various agencies in New York City and New York State to report potential wage theft:

The community-based organization, located in Staten Island, advocates for immigrant workers and their families. In conjunction with other organizations, El Centro del Inmigrante offers wage theft claim assistance at their job community center, and wage theft a…

English Updated Jan 15, 2026

NYC Tenants’ Guide to Eviction Notices and Illegal Lockouts

Legal resources you can consider

New York City Tenant Resource Portal This is a helpful online tool created by the Mayor’s Office. It asks you a few simple questions and then shows you what help is available, including legal aid, city programs, and community organizations. Learn more here. · …

Steps to stop an eviction

You do not have to move out if a judge has not yet ordered you to leave. · If you get an eviction notice or court papers delivered by mail or handed to you by a person other than the landlord, do not ignore them: · Go to court to answer by the deadline listed …

Browse by topic