Finding affordable housing in New York City can feel like an uphill battle. But if you are a senior or a person living with a disability, there is a powerful program designed to give you peace of mind, financial relief, and housing security: The NYC Rent Freeze Program.
Through two vital initiatives—Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) and Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE)—eligible New Yorkers can freeze their rent. Once your rent is frozen, your landlord can still issue standard increases, but you don’t have to pay them. Instead, the City of New York gives your landlord a property tax credit to cover the difference. You get to stay in your home without the fear of being priced out, and your landlord still gets paid.
Here is everything you need to know about how these programs work and who qualifies.
SCRIE: Rent Freeze for Seniors
SCRIE helps older New Yorkers remain in their communities on a fixed income.
Who qualifies?
- You must be 62 years or older.
- You must live in a rent-regulated apartment (such as rent-stabilized or rent-controlled units).
- The total household income did not exceed $75,000 (does not include pensions, annuities or IRAs) for increases effective on or after July 1, 2026. (Household income for all persons living in the household).
- You must spend more than one-third (1/3) of your monthly income on rent.
DRIE: Rent Freeze for People with Disabilities
DRIE offers the exact same protections as SCRIE, but it is tailored for adults living with disabilities.
Who qualifies?
- You must be 18 years or older.
- You must have a qualifying disability (and receive federal or state disability benefits, such as SSI, SSDI, or VA disability).
- You must live in a rent-regulated apartment.
- Your total household income does not exceed $75,000 per year.
- You must spend more than one-third (1/3) of your monthly income on rent.
EXCITING UPDATE: Eligibility is Expanding!
There is major news on the horizon for New York renters. The state legislature recently passed a measure to expand the income limit for both SCRIE and DRIE from $50,000 to $75,000 or less a year!
This means thousands more New Yorkers will soon qualify for this life-changing benefit. While the City is currently finalizing the rollout, we will share the exact details, and official start dates as soon as these new rules go into effect.
How to Apply
If you meet the current criteria, don’t wait to protect your housing.
- Online: Visit the official portal at nyc.gov/site/rentfreeze/ to download applications, check your eligibility, and view required documents.
- By Phone: Simply call 311 and ask for help with the SCRIE or DRIE Rent Freeze programs.
Your home should be your sanctuary, not a source of financial stress. For help checking your eligibility or to apply, reach out to FAC’s Community Services by calling 718-237-2017 x165 or visit our office on a walk-in Tuesday from 10 am to 3 pm.
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