Assisted living in New York: how it is licensed.
Who licenses assisted living in New York, and what to check before you choose.
What New York calls it
In New York, assisted living is licensed under the term “Assisted Living Residence (also Adult Home and Enriched Housing Program)”. Other states use different names, so it helps to know the exact term when you search.
Who licenses and inspects
New York State Department of Health is the agency that licenses these communities. It is the official place to check a community’s license and inspection history. The state also lists an official facility search tool.
Memory care
New York certifies Special Needs Assisted Living Residences for people with dementia or cognitive impairments.
Paying for care
Medicare generally does not cover long term custodial care.
New York's Assisted Living Program (ALP) serves Medicaid recipients and private payers who are medically eligible for nursing home placement; Medicaid recipients must have ALP services approved in advance by their local social services district. Eligibility rules apply.
Checking a community
The Department of Health's profiles for adult homes, enriched housing, assisted living residences and respite care; the page links to instructions for requesting copies of adult care facility surveys.
Help and complaints
New York State Long Term Care Ombudsman Program supports residents of long term care and their families.
Also worth knowing in New York
New York's adult care facility and assisted living complaint hotline is confidential and allows callers to remain anonymous.
Sources we checked (October 2026)
Licensing rules change. We checked the pages below. Confirm with the state agency.
Questions
Who regulates assisted living in New York?
New York State Department of Health.