Getting Financial Aid for Low-Income Families

There are many programs available to low-income families in need of short- or long-term assistance. Families can find aid from the federal or state government in the form of emergency assistance, financial assistance, health care, food assistance and much more. Whether a family took a pay cut in response to losing a job, a layoff, or simply the rising cost of living, there are ways to get financial aid for low-income families.

Instructions

1. Apply for the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families program at the U.S. Department of Human Services. The program was formerly known as welfare. Welfare reform laws changed in 1996 and the new program is aimed at helping families get back on their feet through financial aid, job training, child care and job placement. Find your local Human Services office the agency's website.

2. Check to see what government programs you may be eligible for at GovBenefits.gov. The site lists hundreds of government funded programs created to help low-income families. Search by state, federal, or type of aid to find out what your family is eligible for.

3. Find financial help with rent at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Develop (HUD). With HUD, families pay only a percentage of their rent, substantially lowering their monthly costs. There is usually a waiting list for HUD and assistance is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

4. Get help with home heating costs. The Department of Health and Human Services has a program aimed at helping low-income families pay for their heating costs in the winter. The program is called Low Income Home Energy Assistance, or LIHEAP. This program is offered at the state government level and can be applied for at your local Human Services office. You can also call the national toll-free number at 1-866-674-6327.

5. Apply for food assistance at the Department of Human Services, or check your eligibility for the Emergency Food Assistance Program offered by The U.S. Department of Agriculture. Eligibility requirements and types of services offered are available at USDA.gov.

6. Call your local Department of Human Services for long-term food assistance with food stamps. Some low-income families who do not qualify for financial aid can still qualify for food assistance. Qualifying for food stamps automatically qualifies students for free or reduced lunches at public school.

7. Get free health insurance or help with medical bills. The Medicaid program is offered to low-income families who meet certain criteria. Medicaid is available through your local Health and Human Services office. For low-income families who don't qualify for Medicaid, there is an alternative program set up for each state that will insure children at no cost or a nominal monthly fee. InsureKidsNow.gov has state listings and local contact information for offices in your area.

Tips & Warnings

• Local religious organizations often have lists of financial aid programs.

• Investigate any non-governmental organizations that offer aid before applying for assistance or signing papers.

References

• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Housing and Rental Aid

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• U.S. Department of Human Services
• Goverment Benefits Search
• Health Insurance for Children