Do I Qualify For Government Assistance?

We will guide you to where you can answer that question for several public assistance programs.

Here is a search phrase that has started trending on Google as of late, especially after the pandemic: “Do I qualify for govt assistance?” Why? Because the pandemic made many people lose their jobs and see a reduction in income. Pair that with the cost of nearly everything going up due to inflation, and tons of households are struggling financially to survive.

If you have never been on government assistance before, you might be shocked at the number of public assistance programs out there. And you may be even more shocked at the fact that you could qualify for some of them.

Here are tidbits on some of the most popular public assistance programs. Click the corresponding links to learn more about each program and to see how you can start applying for benefits before your financial situation worsens.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Have you ever heard the term “welfare” used to describe public assistance programs? You probably have, and TANF is the program that it actually refers to. TANF benefits are designed to help families after they experience hardship. It is temporary relief with the primary goal of helping such families achieve financial independence.

If you qualify for TANF, you could receive cash payments to cover food, housing, clothing, and other essentials. It is not necessarily free money, though, as you will likely have to perform some type of work to receive it. TANF is particularly helpful if you are struggling and have kids, and surprisingly, you can get these benefits even if you have a job.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is a public assistance program that helps those who are blind, disabled, or 65 or older. Besides fulfilling one of those requirements, you must also have limited income or resources, as the program is intended to help those with financial need.

If you qualify for SSI, you can receive a monthly payment that helps with shelter, food, and clothing costs. Qualifying for SSI can also open the door to food stamps and Medicaid benefits.

Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)

High rent costs are a big reason why many are wondering, “Do I qualify for govt assistance?” A great way to cut your out-of-pocket rent costs is through the Section 8 or Housing Choice Voucher Program. With a Housing Choice Voucher, your rental costs will be limited to 30 percent of your monthly income instead of over 50 percent, like many low-income households spend.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Even if you have never used them, you have probably heard of food stamps. SNAP is the official name for those nutritional benefits nowadays, and it is quite the popular public assistance program since grocery costs have skyrocketed.

Qualify for SNAP benefits, and you could receive monthly funds to pay for most of your groceries.