Individuals who are released from prison or jail and who need financial assistance until they are able to get on their feet are likely to apply for aid both from Safety Net Assistance (“SNA”), the New York State public assistance program for adults who do not share a household with children, and from Medicaid. The State should actively facilitate these applications and change policies that create practical and legal barriers for people leaving jail or prison. Ultimately, increased access to SNA and Medicaid for this population can reduce both recidivism and long-term costs.