2-1-1 New York
Last updated August 2026
When you do not know which New York program to call, dial 2-1-1. A trained specialist answers around the clock, searches your region's directory, and hands you names, numbers, and hours. Free, confidential, in more than 200 languages through interpreters. Prefer typing? Text your ZIP code to 898-211 or search at 211newyork.org.
One New York quirk to know: in the five boroughs, the number is 311. NYC's 311 handles both city services and human-services referrals; 211 covers the rest of the state through 12 regional centers with hyper-local directories. Either way, a real person connects you.
211 is a matchmaker, not a payer. It does not write checks; it knows which local agencies, churches, and funds near you have money and open intake this week. The network fielded over 2.1 million requests last year, and its specialists keep hyper-local directories of what is open near you.
Tell them everything, not just the scariest bill. Food, housing, utilities, elder care, mental health, substance use, disaster help: one call can produce referrals across all of it. Write each one down before hanging up, and call the referrals the same day.
Use the right number for the right crisis: 988 for a mental health or suicidal crisis, 911 for danger happening now, 211 (or 311 in NYC) for finding and paying for practical help.
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Available to everyone in New York; just dial 2-1-1
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
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Outside NYC: dial 2-1-1, any hour. In the five boroughs: dial 311.
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Or text your ZIP code to 898-211, or search the directory at 211newyork.org.
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Say where you live and everything going on. More detail means more referrals.
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Write down each referral's name, number, and hours before you hang up.
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Call the referrals the same day; local funds open and close all month.
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No luck? Call back next week. What has money changes constantly.
What the application looks like
Common questions
Is 211 free in New York?
Yes: free, confidential, answered 24/7 by regional specialists, with interpretation in more than 200 languages.
What number do I call in NYC?
New York City uses 311 for information and referrals, covering both city services and human-services help. 211 serves the rest of the state through 12 regional centers.
Can 211 pay my rent or bills?
No. It connects you to the local agencies and funds that can, and its specialists know which ones have money right now.
Can I text or search online instead?
Yes. Text your ZIP code to 898-211, or use the guided search at 211newyork.org.
When do I call 988 instead?
For a suicidal or mental health crisis, any hour. Call 911 for immediate danger. Keep 211 (311 in NYC) for finding food, rent, and utility help.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
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