SNAP (Food Stamps)
- Food
- Free
- Online or statewide
Monthly benefits for groceries. Applications are handled by your state; the USDA page links to each state's office.
Who it's for: Income and household-size rules apply.
Nationwide
Programs open to everyone, in any state.
Start here: benefits and programs
Medicaid and CHIP
- Health care
- Free
- Online or statewide
Free or low-cost health coverage for people with limited income, and for children through CHIP. Apply through your state.
Who it's for: Income and household rules vary by state.
Benefits.gov Benefit Finder
- Benefits
- Free
- Online or statewide
Federal questionnaire that shows which government benefits you may qualify for.
Who it's for: Anyone; answers are used only to match programs.
Free Tax Help (VITA)
- Benefits
- Free
- Online or statewide
IRS-certified volunteers prepare tax returns for free and help claim credits such as the EITC.
Who it's for: Generally households earning about $67,000 or less.
HUD Find Shelter and Housing Help
- Housing
- Free
- Online or statewide
Links to emergency shelter, housing counseling and rental assistance offices near you.
Lifeline Phone and Internet Discount
- Utilities
- Low cost
- Online or statewide
Monthly discount on phone or internet service for qualifying households.
Who it's for: Income-based, or enrollment in SNAP, Medicaid and other programs.
LIHEAP Energy Assistance
- Utilities
- Free
- Online or statewide
Federal program that helps with heating and cooling bills. Apply through your state or local agency.
Who it's for: Income-based.