Am I Eligible?

Check your potential eligibility for work supports and other programs at the self-service website: myBenefits .

You can also learn more by watching the video "Helping You Make Ends Meet"

Albany County
Department of Social Services
David Kircher, Acting Commissioner

162 Washington Ave
Albany, NY 12210

(518) 447–7300

The following individuals are exempt from Food Stamp work requirements.

Under age 16
Age 60+ [Applicants are considered 60 years old if their 60th birthday occurs anytime during the month of application.]
A 16 or 17 year old who is:
- NOT the head of household OR
- attending school or employment training at least half time
Receiving SSI or Social Security Disability
Temporarily or permanently disabled [This can be established by income type (e.g., SSI, Social Security Disability, Workers’ Compensation), medical statement, or participation in NYS OVESID.]
Pending SSI determination
A caretaker
- for a dependent child under the age of 6 OR
- for an incapacitated person of any age
Employed (or self-employed)
- at least 30+ hours/week OR
- receiving weekly earnings at least equal to the federal minimum wage x 30
Receiving Unemployment Insurance benefits (UIB) if the person was required to register with the State Employment Service as a condition of UIB eligibility
Pending UIB (except persons participating in a strike or lockout)
Participating in a drug/alcohol rehabilitation program
Enrolled in a recognized school or training program at least half time (other than correspondence schools) [NOTE: student eligibility issues need to be considered.]