How to Survive With Little or No Money

If you have little or no money, don't be afraid or ashamed to ask for help.

Whether you are in financial trouble due to high medical bills, illness, a lost job, family difficulties or going to school, surviving with little to no money can be difficult. You may already be clipping coupons and shopping sales, but that can only go so far. Even if your situation is dire, there is help available. The process of applying for help can be tedious and frustrating, but it's well worth it for you and your family.

Things You'll Need

• Bills
• Phone
• Transportation
• Proof of income
• Social Security Card
• Driver's license or other state identification

Instructions

1. Assess your financial situation; make a list of your monthly bills and spending. Compare what money goes out with your income, if you have any. Decide if there is any spending you can reduce or eliminate.

2. Call any companies you aren't current with and explain your situation. Let them know if you're behind due to being laid off, dealing with a sick family member or falling ill yourself. Many companies are willing to work with you if you're proactive in contacting them.

3. Contact your county assistance office by phone or by visiting. This office may be called the department of human services or department of health and human services, depending on your area. If you are 65 or older, also contact your department of aging. If you are disabled, ask if there is a separate department of disability, and if so, contact that department. Explain your situation and ask what help you may qualify for.

4. Follow the instructions provided to you by the assistance office. If you have children, you may be directed to apply for the Children's Health Insurance Program, or CHIP, and family income assistance. If you're unemployed, contact the unemployment office closest to you. If you're a senior (65 or older), blind or disabled, contact Social Security to see if you qualify for retirement benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, or Supplemental Security Income, or SSI.

5. Take notes on each department and person you contact. Follow up with each department every week or two to ensure that the departments have all the information needed to process your applications. Processing times vary depending on the program. Unemployment claims are processed relatively quickly; SSDI can take three months to five months.

Tips & Warnings

• Food banks provide free food to those in need. Contact agencies to find out their eligibility guidelines.

• Don't wait to get necessary medical care. Low-income clinics provide services for a fee based on your income.

References

• Oprah; Use Your Survival Skills for a Money Crisis; Jean Chatzky and Arielle McGowen; May 2009
• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Childrens Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act (CHIPRA) of 2009 (Overview)
• United States Department of Labor: State Unemployment Insurance Benefits
• Social Security Online: Understanding The Benefits
• Social Security Online: Information We Will Need

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• HUD.gov: Housing Choice Vouchers Fact Sheet
• USDA Food and Nutrition Service: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)