How To Qualify for Government Help: From Food to Housing
Written by
Stacy Sare Cohen
Edited by
Amber Barkley
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Nearly everyone faces a financial setback at some point — whether a job loss or another crisis that topples the budget. While unemployment benefits can help, they often fall short of covering all the necessities, like rent, mortgage payments, groceries and utilities.
If you’re living on a fixed income or need temporary financial relief, you may qualify for government benefits and financial assistance, according to USAGov.
However, with so many programs, it can be tricky to know where to start. This guide breaks down where to find and apply for programs offering financial assistance, from food to housing and more.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
Food assistance is available through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. These benefits are available to low-income individuals and families, with income limits depending on the state in which you live and varying by household size.
If approved, participants will be issued an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, where money is deposited to accounts every month. To apply for benefits, visit your local SNAP Office.
Food Assistance for Older Adults
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers food assistance to adults age 60 and older who are within 185% of the federal poverty income guidelines.
The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides coupons seniors can use at road stands, farmers markets and community farms.
The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) prepares food packages distributed through local agencies for pickup. Some states offer delivery services, so check with your local or state agency.
Seniors insured by Medicare Advantage Part C may be eligible for a Medicare Flex Card for food, transportation and other services, according to Medicare.gov. However, always read the fine print before enrolling in any health insurance plan to make sure you can afford the premium and understand the terms.
Housing Assistance
Various housing programs can assist with everything from buying a home to helping with repairs and paying rent. Note that some programs have a longer wait list than others.
Here are some programs that offer support.
- Emergency Housing offers short-term housing for people who are facing homelessness, including youth, teens and veterans.
- Emergency Rent Assistance is available through local and state rental programs.
- Non-Emergency Rental Assistance includes other housing programs that help with rent, such as Section 8 Housing, subsidized rental housing and rental programs for seniors, people with disabilities and veterans.
- Home Buying Assistance includes government-backed loans, mortgage assistance and homeownership vouchers for first-time buyers.
For emergency assistance with housing or rent, call 211 to learn about programs in your area and to find out if you are eligible. Other housing assistance programs generally have income limits that may vary by location.
Energy Assistance
The government can also provide help with your energy bills, according to USAGov. Financial support can vary from state to state.
One program, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), helps beneficiaries pay for cooling and heating bills, as well as emergency services during an energy crisis. Depending on your state, you may also qualify for financial support for your electric bills.
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