Language assistance options for immigrants in New York City

Reaching out to the City for help as an immigrant can feel intimidating, especially if you are expected to communicate in English. As Shelterforce has noted, many Chinese community members, for instance, often face long waits and confusing processes when trying to access local services, and the language barrier adds to this challenge. 

Some spend months or even years on affordable housing lottery waitlists without hearing back. Others have to make multiple phone calls just to schedule a doctor’s appointment. Even filing a complaint can feel difficult and overwhelming. 

If you or someone you know needs to ask for language assistance when accessing a service from a City agency, here are some options.

How can I ask for help in my language? 

• When visiting or calling a City agency, for example at social welfare, Medicaid, or Food Stamp/SNAP offices, you can always request assistance in your language. New York City agencies have several documents in at least 10 languages (Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Bangla, Haitian Creole, Korean, Arabic, Polish, Urdu, and French).
  • Say “I need a ____ interpreter.” Interpreters keep your information private, understand complex terms, and translate accurately.
• Show your “I Speak” card to indicate the language you speak to City agency staff.
  • Download an “I Speak” card.
• For American Sign Language (ASL), the City provides ASL Direct, a video calling system. Learn more about ASL Direct on the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities website.

How can I get language assistance for housing? 

Applying for affordable housing through Housing Connect requires applicants to create an online account before they can submit an application, and these processes can still be a barrier for many seniors who may not have access to digital tools or may not know how to use them. 

For Housing Connect applications, step-by-step application guides are available here in multiple languages. You can also find free Housing Connect ambassadors here to help you with your application. 

For NYCHA applications, besides the online application, residents can schedule an appointment and visit a service center in person for assistance.

If you need in-person support, you can contact community organizations that offer services in your language. We have guides with lists of organizations that provide services in Chinese, Spanish, and Haitian Creole.

Can I access interpreter services for medical assistance? 

You have the right to ask for interpreting service for free at any healthcare facility. If you visit any locations from NYC Health + Hospitals, they offer free interpreters in over 300 languages 24/7, as well as American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters and key documents in Braille. They also provide services over the phone or on video call. 

To request language help, simply use the app on your phone or carry a card with you that says what language you speak and show it to your healthcare team. Or tell the healthcare team that you want an interpreter in your language.

I’m interested in becoming an interpreter, where can I start?

The NYC Community Interpreter Bank (CIB), led by the New York Immigration Coalition, is a city-funded initiative that works to expand language access across New York City. It recruits, trains and dispatches interpreters to support New Yorkers with limited English proficiency. CIB also creates pathways for bilingual and multilingual New Yorkers to become community interpreters. If you are interested in becoming a community interpreter, click here to start.

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