Living in New York City can be expensive, especially for seniors on fixed incomes. Fortunately, the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) program helps eligible seniors by freezing their rent and exempting them from future increases. If you're a senior in NYC struggling with housing costs, SCRIE could be a valuable resource to help you stay in your home affordably.
What Is SCRIE?
SCRIE, also known as the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption, is part of NYC’s Rent Freeze Program. It allows qualifying seniors living in rent-controlled or rent-stabilized apartments to freeze their rent at the current amount. The program provides landlords with a property tax credit to cover the difference between the frozen rent and future increases.
Who Is Eligible for SCRIE?
To qualify for SCRIE, seniors must meet the following criteria:
Age: Must be 62 years or older
Residency: Must live in a rent-regulated apartment (rent-stabilized, rent-controlled, or a Mitchell-Lama/co-op housing unit)
Income: Annual household income must be $50,000 or less
Rent: Must pay at least one-third (1/3) of household income toward rent
If you meet these requirements, you may be eligible to have your rent frozen under SCRIE.
How to Apply for SCRIE
Applying for SCRIE is a straightforward process. Follow these steps:
1. Gather Required Documents
You will need:
Proof of age (government-issued ID, birth certificate, or passport)
Proof of residency (lease agreement or rent statement)
Proof of income (tax return, Social Security award letter, pension statements, etc.)
2. Complete the SCRIE Application
You can download the SCRIE application online or request a paper form by mail.
Apply Online: NYC Rent Freeze ProgramRequest by Mail: Call 311 and ask for a SCRIE application
3. Submit Your Application
You can submit your completed application by:
Mail: Send it to the NYC Department of Finance at:
SCRIE Unit – NYC Department of Finance
P.O. Box 3179
Union, NJ 07083
Online: Upload documents through the NYC Rent Freeze website
In-Person: Visit a local Department of Finance Business Center
Renewing SCRIE Benefits
SCRIE benefits are not automatic and must be renewed with every new lease. Seniors should reapply before their benefits expire to continue receiving the rent exemption.
Renewal notices are typically sent in advance, but tracking your expiration date is important.
What If You Are Denied?
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. You may need to provide additional documentation or correct errors in your application. Contact the SCRIE office at 311 for assistance.
SCRIE is a crucial program that helps NYC seniors maintain affordable housing by freezing their rent and protecting them from future increases. If you or a loved one is eligible, applying for SCRIE can provide financial relief and housing security.
For more information, visit the NYC Rent Freeze Program website or call 311 for assistance.