Government benefits to assist you

Updated February 2021

Lately, life is full of uncertainty and millions of people are looking for government assistance for the first time. There are various federal programs available that are designed to support those who are struggling to make ends meet. Some of these benefits are federally-funded and issued through a state, where others are issued directly to individuals and families.

To locate benefits available specific to your situation and state, make sure to check out this handy Benefits Finder. Let’s take a look at some of the top federal benefits available.

Government food and nutrition programs

Food Stamps (SNAP)

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the most extensive federal nutrition assistance program. SNAP provides benefits to eligible individuals and families through an EBT card that is used to purchase eligible food in authorized food stores.

Check to ensure you are eligible here and click here to discover more information about SNAP.

Women and Infant Children (WIC)

WIC programs provide healthy food to pregnant/nursing women and those who have children up to 5 years of age. To learn more and check your eligibility, click here.

Food Pantries

Food pantries are non-profit organizations that function to provide food to local communities.

• FoodPantries.org is a website that lists thousands of food pantries across the country - click the link to find a local pantry near you.
• Feeding America also assists those who need access to food.

Government utility assistance programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP helps eligible households with energy bill payment assistance, energy crisis assistance, and weatherization-related home repairs. To check your eligibility, click here.

Lifeline Program

This program provides a discounted phone service for qualifying consumers. It’s administered through the Universal Service Administrative Company - learn more about the program requirements.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

This program provides grant funds to states to provide families with financial assistance and other support services such as childcare, job preparation, and work assistance.

Government healthcare programs

Medicaid

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage for children, pregnant women, parents, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. It is the largest source of health coverage in the United States. Click here to learn more.

Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

CHIP provides health coverage to eligible children; it is administered by states, according to federal requirements. The program is funded jointly by states and the federal government. Learn more about eligibility here.

Government affordable housing programs

Housing Choice Voucher Program (Formerly Section 8)

This program is funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and helps pay rent for low-income families, the elderly, or those with a disability. Find your Local Public Housing Agency (PHA) to determine eligibility.

Public Housing

Public housing is state-owned rental houses or apartments for eligible individuals and families. Public housing is nationwide and comes in all sizes and types from single-family houses to high-rise apartments. Find your Local Public Housing Agency (PHA) to determine eligibility.

Government childcare programs

The Child Care and Development Fund

The Child Care and Development Fund can ease the burden of childcare costs for low-income families. This fund administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is income-based and usually covers the cost of childcare for children under the age of 13. Contact your state's fund to learn more and determine eligibility.

To help support our community, Jobcase has launched an Unemployment Benefit Center and a Coronavirus Resource Center where you can find credible information, connect with others, and provide support to those who need it most.