What Should I Do Next After My Housing and Reasonable Accommodations Request Was Denied by the Department of Social Services.

homelesslongisland
Jan 18, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Mar 28

If your request for housing assistance and reasonable accommodations from the Department of Social Services (DSS) has been denied, make sure you get the denial in writing.

There are several steps you can take to address the situation :

1. Review the Denial Letter

Carefully read the denial letter to understand the reasons for the denial. This will help you determine your next steps and whether you have grounds for an appeal.

2. Contact DSS for Clarification

Reach out to the Department of Social Services to ask for clarification on the denial. Sometimes, additional documentation or information may be needed to support your case. The additional documentation is all that may be needed.

3. Appeal the Decision

You have the right to appeal the DSS’s decision. Follow the instructions provided in the denial letter regarding the appeals process. Be sure to submit your appeal within the specified time frame. The denial letter will give you information to contact the local legal aid service, in your county.

4. Gather Supporting Documentation

Collect any relevant documentation that supports your request for reasonable accommodations and housing assistance. This may include medical records, letters from healthcare professionals, or any other evidence that reinforces your need for assistance. Your lawyer will go over these documents with you.

5. Seek Legal Assistance

Consider reaching out to local legal aid organizations or advocacy groups that specialize in housing rights and disability law. They can provide guidance on your situation and help you navigate the appeals process.

6. Explore Alternative Housing Resources

While you pursue your appeal, explore other housing resources and support services available in your County. This may include local shelters, transitional housing, or other social services.

7. Stay Persistent

Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself. Persistence is key when dealing with bureaucratic processes, and continuing to follow up on your case can help ensure that your needs are met.

Stay calm
Do not get upset the last thing you need is a police escort out of the DSS building. Stay calm if the conversation turns for the worse. Say please can we focus on the solution, and put the problem aside? Most cases that calms things down.

Conclusion

If your request for housing assistance and reasonable accommodations was denied by the Department of Social Services in your County, it’s important to take proactive steps to address the situation. By reviewing the denial, appealing the decision, and seeking support, you can work towards securing the assistance you need.

Resource Information:

1. Suffolk County Department of Social Services - Suffolk County DSS click here

2. New York Legal Assistance Group - NYLAG click here

3. Long Island Coalition for the Homeless - LICH click here

4. New York State Division of Human Rights - NYSDHR click here

5. Disability Rights New York - DRNY click here