What is a “One Shot Deal”?
A One Shot Deal is an emergency cash assistance grant from the NYC Human Resources Administration (HRA). It can cover rent arrears, broker’s fees, utility shut-off notices, moving costs after domestic violence, and other crises that threaten your health or housing. Depending on your income, you may have to sign a repayment agreement, but many low-income households qualify for a non-repayable grant.
1. Who Can Qualify in 2025?
| Requirement | What HRA Looks For |
|---|---|
| NYC Residency | Current address in any of the five boroughs. |
| Emergency Need | Imminent eviction, utility shut-off, disaster loss, domestic violence relocation, etc. |
| Income & Resources | Household income below ~200 % FPL or proof you cannot meet the emergency expense; limited savings. |
| Immigration Status | U.S. citizens, LPRs, and many “PRUCOL” categories are eligible. Undocumented parents may still apply on behalf of U.S.-citizen children. |
| Future Affordability | Evidence you can pay rent going forward (new job, subsidized rent, roommate contribution). |
💡 Good to know: You may re-apply even if you received a One Shot Deal in the past—just be ready to explain the new reason you fell behind.
2. Document Checklist
Bring copies and keep originals:
- Government-issued photo ID for every adult
- Social Security cards or ITIN letters
- Current lease, rent ledger, or stipulation of settlement
- Written rent demand, marshal’s notice, or Housing Court papers
- Six weeks of pay stubs, benefit award letters, or unemployment printouts
- Proof of future ability to pay (new hire letter, roommate affidavit, budget)
- Utility shut-off notice (if applying for Con-Ed or National Grid arrears)
3. How to Apply—Six Practical Steps
| Step | What to Do | Time-Saver Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Create / Log in to ACCESS HRA | Go to access.nyc.gov ➜ “Cash Assistance (One Shot Deal).” | Use the same email/phone you gave on prior SNAP or Cash Assistance cases to link records instantly. (access.nyc.gov) |
| 2. Start the Application | Select “Emergency Assistance Only.” Answer household & income questions honestly. | Check the “I have a Housing Court case” box if relevant—HRA can verify your docket. |
| 3. Upload Documents | Download the free HRA Document Upload app; photograph each document. | Name files clearly: “Roe_Jane_Lease_Page1.” (nyc.gov) |
| 4. Complete the Interview | HRA will call from a 718 or 929 number within 2-10 days. Missed it? Call 718-557-1399 to reschedule. | Have rent ledger & budget sheet in front of you; the call lasts ~30 minutes. (portal.311.nyc.gov) |
| 5. Follow Up | Check ACCESS HRA “My Requests” tab every few days. Upload any W-113K (additional doc request) within 10 days. | Set calendar alerts so you don’t miss the deadline—late docs = denial. |
| 6. Get the Decision | Typical timeline: 30-45 days; urgent eviction cases can be expedited to 7-10 days. Decision arrives in ACCESS HRA + mail. | If approved, funds are wired directly to the landlord or utility. |
4. Boosting Your Approval Odds
- Attach a Hardship Letter
Explain why you fell behind (job loss, medical bills) and how you’ll stay current. Show Landlord Cooperation
Upload a signed Landlord Information Form (HIPAA-style release) or a letter confirming the arrears amount.Demonstrate Future Stability
Include a new employment offer, third-party pledge, or signed roommate agreement. HRA must see that one-time help will solve, not postpone, the crisis.Bundle Court Papers
If you’re already in Housing Court, upload the petition, answer, and any stipulation—this proves urgency and exact arrears.
5. What If You’re Denied?
- Request a Fair Hearing within 60 days online or by calling OTDA: 800-342-3334.
- Ask for “Aid Continuing.” This keeps your case open (and stops eviction) until a judge decides.
- Gather New Evidence—often denials cite “future ability to pay” or “incomplete docs.” Fix the gap and re-apply.
- Get free help from Legal Aid, NYLAG, or a borough Rent-Arrears Clinic.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to repay the grant?
A: Maybe. HRA looks at your income: roughly ≥130 % FPL triggers a repayment plan, usually $ 10–$ 100/month. Lower-income households often receive a grant with no payback clause.
Q: How much can I receive?
A: There’s no fixed cap; awards commonly cover up to 12 months of rent plus court fees and marshal’s notice.
Q: Can I apply if I’m subletting or on month-to-month?
A: Yes—submit proof you’ve been paying (receipts, money-order stubs) and a letter from the primary tenant or landlord.
Q: Is the One Shot Deal the same as ERAP?
A: No. ERAP is a state program for COVID-era arrears (now mostly closed). The One Shot Deal is city-run and remains open in 2025.
7. Key Takeaways
- Start early—collect documents before you open ACCESS HRA.
- Tell a clear story: what happened, how much you owe, and how you’ll stay current.
- Upload everything—missing one pay stub can sink an otherwise solid case.
- Follow up relentlessly—check your portal, call HRA, keep notes.
- Use free help—Legal Aid, Rent Arrears Clinics, and LawHax tools exist to tip the scale in your favor.
A One Shot Deal can be the difference between keeping your home and losing it. With the right preparation, you can turn a paperwork marathon into a winnable sprint. Good luck, and stay housed!