Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence

View a list of the DDS offices throughout New York State.

• Domestic violence information, resources, and services are located in each district and available to all individuals applying, eligible, and in receipt of social services.

Did you know there is a DSS office available to you in every county?

Did you know there is a Domestic Violence Liaison (DVL) available in every county to speak with victims of DV?

• These are the documents you will need to bring with you to the agency. You will provide these documents when you are handing in your common application form.
  • Forms of ID
  • Birth Certificates
• The forms listed below are forms you will receive from the agency to complete.
  • The common application
  • A screening form – You need to check yes on the screening form or verbally disclose DV to be referred to the Domestic Violence Liaison (DVL). You must meet with a Domestic Violence Liaison (DVL) in order to obtain a waiver from any program requirement.
• If you do not have the required documents and are not able to obtain them safely or will have difficulty obtaining them, you must let your worker know and request help obtaining these documents.

Even if you don’t complete the screening form or check “yes” you can still request an opportunity to see the Domestic Violence Liaison (DVL).

• How to Apply for Services offered through the Office for Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA)

• The Domestic Violence Liaison (DVL) will sit with you and help you decide if you need a waiver, which is a temporary delay, in participating in the programs through social services because of safety issues.
• The Domestic Violence Liaison (DVL) will also help you create a services plan and an emergency safety plan in the event you decide to leave your abuser and you want to work toward self-sufficiency.
• You can always see the Domestic Violence Liaison (DVL) during the TA process.
• Meeting with the Domestic Violence Liaison (DVL) is completely voluntary and confidential.

If you need help, do not refuse to see the Domestic Violence Liaison (DVL).

Domestic Violence Liaison (DVL) cannot determine your TA eligibility.

• If you have been denied temporary assistance service, by law, you have a right to a fair hearing to explain why you think the decision was wrong.
• More specifically, if you are a victim of domestic violence and you are denied the opportunity for a waiver, you have 60 days from the date of the denial notice to request a fair hearing.
• If you need legal assistance, an attorney can be appointed to you at no cost through your local Legal Aid Society.
• If you are afraid for your safety, you may have a lawyer or another individual represent you in court.

Obtain detailed information and instruction online on how to apply for fair hearing