N.Y. Soc. Serv. Law § 256

§ 256. Investigation of applications. Whenever an application for\nservices is made, an investigation and record shall be promptly made of\nthe circumstances of the applicant in accordance with regulations of the\ndepartment. The object of such investigation shall be to ascertain the\nfacts supporting the application and to obtain such other information as\nmay be required by the department.\n