Benefits, Grants, Loans
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Get information on government programs that may help you pay for food, housing, health care, and other basic living expenses. Find out about eligibility requirements for programs like food stamps, welfare, and Medicaid, and how to apply for them.
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Benefits and Financial Assistance from the GovernmentIf you're looking for immediate or emergency help, your state's human service or social service agency might be able to help. They can either provide financial assistance or refer you to local community organizations. Search for Financial Assistance From the GovernmentBenefits.gov is a free website that can help you determine which types of government assistance you might qualify for. You can also find out how and where to apply.
Check back with Benefits.gov in the future to see if you’re eligible for additional benefits. You can report major life events or see if new benefit programs have become available. Search for Benefits and Programs for People With DisabilitiesFind government and local disability programs, including housing, jobs, education, and health care. Do you receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI)? If you need help with your benefits, you can review these top questions about Social Security. Search for Benefits for Military Veterans and Their FamiliesLearn about veterans benefits such as burial, education, health, and housing. How to Apply for Unemployment BenefitsThere are a variety of benefit and aid programs to help you if you lose your job. CareerOneStop.org is a good place to start. It can help with unemployment insurance benefits, job training, and finding a job. Unemployment InsuranceAm I eligible?Unemployment insurance programs pay you money if you lose your job through no fault of your own. You must meet your state's eligibility requirements. How do I apply?Each state runs its own program. Select your state from this map to find out how to apply. You may be able to file online, by phone, or in person. Is there anything else I need to know?
Other Types of Benefits and Programs for the UnemployedEducational HelpFederal agencies offer many unemployment education and training programs. They are generally free or low cost to the unemployed. Self-Employment HelpSelf-employment assistance programs help unemployed workers start their own small businesses. Delaware, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New York, and Oregon offer this program. Food Stamps (SNAP Food Benefits)The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal nutrition program. Known previously as "food stamps," SNAP benefits can help you stretch your food budget if you have a low income. Learn About the Types of Food You Can Buy With SNAP BenefitsIf you’re eligible, you can purchase food using benefits that are issued to you monthly. You can use your SNAP benefits to buy a variety of foods for your household, including:
See the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) list of foods and products you can buy using SNAP benefits. Find Out If You Are Eligible for SNAPTo determine if you are eligible for SNAP benefits, you must meet certain requirements. States have income limits for SNAP recipients. They can also factor in your resources, such as money in the bank, to decide if you qualify for SNAP. Apply for SNAP BenefitsUse the online map to apply for SNAP and to find your state and local offices and phone numbers. You may also apply in person at your state or local office. How Your SNAP Benefits Work
File a Complaint About SNAPWhether you currently receive SNAP benefits or you're in the process of applying, you can file a complaint using these resources:
SNAP Information For RetailersLearn how to work with SNAP if you are a retailer or if you operate a farmers market. Welfare or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a federally funded, state-run benefits program. Also known as welfare, TANF helps families achieve independence after experiencing temporary difficulties. Learn About TANFRecipients may qualify for help with:
Each state runs its TANF program
differently and has a different name. Find Out If You're Eligible for TANF
Apply for TANFContact your nearest TANF office to sign-up for benefits. Report TANF FraudIf you suspect possible welfare fraud, contact:
Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)Medicaid is a federal and state health insurance program for people with a low income. The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) offers health coverage to children. To be eligible, the child's family must have an income that is:
Medicaid and CHIP program names are different in each state. Learn About MedicaidWhat help is available through Medicaid?Medicaid provides free or low-cost medical benefits to eligible:
Am I eligible for Medicaid?Check with your state’s Medicaid office to see if you or your family members are eligible for benefits. In general, it depends on at least one or a combination of:
How do I apply for Medicaid?There are two ways to apply for Medicaid:
Learn About the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)If your income is too high for Medicaid, your child may still qualify for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). It covers medical and dental care for uninsured children and teens up to age 19. Is my child eligible for CHIP?CHIP qualifications are different in every state. In most cases, they depend on income. How do I apply for CHIP benefits?You have two ways to apply for CHIP:
What else do I need to know about CHIP?
File a Complaint About Medicaid or CHIPIf you have a problem with Medicaid or CHIP services, you can file a complaint. These programs are managed by each state rather than the federal government. Contact your state's Medicaid program to report your issue. How to Get Survivor Benefits From the GovernmentYou may be eligible for survivor benefits from the government following a family member’s death. If you qualify, you may be able to receive death benefits including:
Every government benefit program has its own eligibility rules. To find out what you might qualify for, use USAGov's benefits locator tool. Answer a few questions to get a customized list of benefits and instructions on how to apply. Use USAGov's benefits locator Last Updated: October 26, 2022 TopWhat is the lowest income to qualify for Medicaid?Federal Poverty Level thresholds to qualify for Medicaid
For example, in 2022 it is $13,590 for a single adult person, $27,750 for a family of four and $46,630 for a family of eight. To calculate for larger households, you need to add $4,720 for each additional person in families with nine or more members.
What does Medicaid cover in NC?Personal Care Services (PCS), Medical Equipment, and Other Home Health Services. In-home care under the Community Alternatives Program (CAP) Mental Health Care. Most medically necessary services for children under age 21.
What is the maximum income to qualify for free health care Illinois?Effective April 2022 – March 2023, the medically needy income limit (MNIL) in IL is $1,133 / month for an individual and $1,526 / month for a couple.
Can adults qualify for Medicaid in Texas?Adults with disabilities who qualify will get Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities. If you have a disability and work, you might be able to get the Medicaid Buy-In for Adults program.
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