How to Live Off the Government

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By Dave Donovan
eHow Contributing Writer

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(37 Ratings)

Live Off the Government

If you've read a newspaper within the last year or you happen to own a television set--then you no doubt already know that the United States is in the middle of an economic meltdown. In fact, according to the most recent unemployment numbers (October 2009), the national unemployment rate average has crested 10 percent for the first time since the early 1980s. This is despite national figureheads claiming an end to the recession.

According to recent reports, the construction industry cut 62,000 jobs in October. Combined with 61,000 jobs lost in manufacturing and over 40,000 job cuts in the retail industry--the sharp rise of nearly a half percent in the nation's unemployed from September to October has many Wall Street forecasters scratching their heads--and many more Americans wondering what to do next.

So, what happens to all of these Americans who get forced out of their jobs? They turn to the only place they can for assistance: the government. There are numerous government programs designed to help those in unfortunate situations make it through their darkest days. While the government's not a golden goose--in addition to unemployment compensation--there are other ways you can live off Uncle Sam for a little while--until something better comes along.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

Apply for food stamps so the burden of providing food for your family can be relieved. The amount you get depends on a number of factors, and while you may have to learn how to shop more wisely, the food stamps you get will help your family fend off hunger--and as a side bonus, you may learn new shopping techniques that will last long after you're off of government assistance.
Step 2

Apply for TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families). TANF is a block grant provided to each state to disperse as needed. Once approved, your family will receive government funds to help you get through a temporary setback. This program is designed to promote job preparation and education in an effort to prevent families from becoming permanently dependent on government assistance programs like welfare.
Step 3

Besides financial help and food-based support, the other primary concern for families in economic trouble is healthcare. Although a national healthcare reform plan was recently approved, it may take years before it gets successfully underway, so in the meantime, families can still apply for Medicaid. If you are a low-income family, but not an unemployed one, you can still get healthcare for your children through the government's Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Step 4

Apply for financial help for your utilities. For families in a low-income or unemployed situation, having their utilities turned off can be a final blow to their resolve and morale, especially in the cold winter months. Every state offers the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), and some even offer low-income telephone assistance.

Plus, for many states, individuals on utility assistance programs don't have to worry about being disconnected throughout the winter months, which run from November 15 through March 15.
Step 5

If you have a child or children in school, you may be eligible for the National School Lunch Program, which provides your child a healthy lunch at a minimal cost. There are certain requirements, so check the link in Resources below for the program's guidelines.

Comments

tammyfrost said

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on 11/21/2009 These are great steps.

shanekia said

on 11/21/2009 That's whats up, let everybody know what to do when times get hard, way to go bro!

maggiedarr said

on 11/21/2009 For the record, at this time, a national health care plan has *not* been approved. One version was passed by the House. The senate has a version they will try to pass. Then both bills will go to committee and try to be reconciled. The senate bill is unknown right now, but the house bill would require most people to buy health insurance or face a fine and possible jail if they don't pay the fines. Also as it is now, they collect taxes for 4 years and then start to phase it in on year 5. That's how they come up with the under budget numbers...