Home health aides can start earning $19.10 an hour in NYC. And while the training is essential, it is less strenuous than getting a medical license.
In order to work as a home health aide in New York, you must first complete a state-approved Home Health Aide Training Program (HHATP) or pass a competency evaluation. The training, which usually takes around a month, must be approved by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH).
To see if your program is approved or to find other options in your neighborhood and in various languages, including Spanish, click here to check the NYS Department of Health Approved PCA and HHA Training Programs report.
Free training programs to become a Home Health Aide
A free program means that tuition and fees are covered. However, be aware that some free programs may still have fees for books, uniforms or supplies — and some may even require you to commit to work for a certain home care agency after certification. Always read the agreement before enrolling.
If a program requires a job commitment, that means that you must agree to work for the sponsoring employer for a period. When you are researching home health aide training opportunities ask: “What, if any, cost will I have to pay? Are there employment conditions?”
With that said, here are some options for a free home health aide certificate.
NYC SBS Home Health Aide Training Program
The New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) provides free training and certification for Home Health Aides. The course includes 100 hours of online instruction followed by eight hours of in-person supervised practical training.
To qualify, applicants need to be 18 years or older, authorized to work in the United States, and able to work flexible hours once employed. While a high school diploma or previous health care experience isn’t required, participants should have basic computer knowledge and good communication skills.
You can apply online through the SBS website by searching for approved training providers near your ZIP code. To browse through SBS HHA programs click here, enter your ZIP code and start finding schools.
Sunnyside Community Services
This organization provides a free, four-week Home Health Aide training program with direct employment opportunities upon completion. The program is offered in both English and Spanish.
For more information about the training, click here and apply on the form on the website. You can also visit their offices or contact them by phone or email.
Phone: 929-335-9634
Email: info@scsny.org
Locations
43-31 39th Street
Sunnyside, NY
5241 Center Boulevard
Long Island City, NY
Bronx Educational Opportunity Center (EOC)
Part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, the Bronx Educational Opportunity Center offers general admissions to several vocational programs, including the Home Health Aide training for eligible New York residents. It provides a minimum of 120 hours of personal care training.
The curriculum also includes resume development, interview preparation and job placement assistance.
There’s no High School Diploma or equivalent required for applying. Apply online here or contact them for more information.
Phone: (718) 530-7039 or (718) 530-7002
Location: 2467 Jerome Avenue, Bronx, New York
SUNY Queens Educational Opportunity Center
Based in Jamaica, Queens, the Queens Educational Opportunity Center (Queens EOC) provides tuition-free academic and vocational training programs for eligible New York State residents.
The start date for the upcoming Home Health Aide program will be announced soon. For information on applications and forms, contact the office directly. Take in consideration a valid photo ID is required to be admitted to the Queens EOC.
Here’s a contact form to leave a message.
Phone: 718-725-3300
Email: freeclasses@queens.eoc.suny.edu
Address: 158-29 Archer Avenue, Jamaica, New York.
The Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation (NMIC)
This organization offers a free Home Health Aid certification course in English and Spanish. In four weeks, participants are trained to provide personal care assistance and earn certification through the New York State Department of Health.
Take in consideration that the organization prioritizes also people who are currently SNAP recipients.
Phone: (212) 822-8300
Email: ecs@nmic.org
Location: 8 Clinton Place, Bronx, NY
How do I choose a free home health aide program?
When multiple free options exist, here are some key points to consider.
First, ensure the program holds accreditation from the NY State Department of Health (NYSDOH) or meets all state standards. You can do this by asking the provider for their NYSDOH certification number. Programs offered through NYC SBS or Workforce1 are already partnered with state-approved schools.
Next, consider the program’s schedule and format. Evaluating whether an in-person, hybrid, or online option with in-person labs would best suit your availability and access needs.
Beyond tuition, calculate the total cost — account for expenses like books, uniforms, supplies, and test fees.
It’s also important to check for any employment commitments, understanding if you’ll be required to work for the sponsoring organization and for how long.
Ask about language options (English, Spanish, or other) and the availability of supportive instruction for non-native speakers.
Many programs have limited enrollment, so check their cycles and attend open houses to secure your spot.
