Start here 7 minute read
Need help, but do not know the program name? Start with this one sheet.
Before you fill out twelve forms, make one household note and use the official benefit finder. It saves a lot of wrong turns.
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Try a plain word. “Heat.” “Credit.” “Roof.” That sort of thing.
Showing all 12 guides.
Food & bills 6 minute read
A big heat or power bill? LIHEAP is the name to write down.
This home-energy program is real, local, and different in every state. Here is how to find the right office without wandering through ads.
Food & bills 7 minute read
SNAP starts with your state. Here is what happens after you hit apply.
The form, interview, proof, and wait make more sense when you know the order. Keep your submission date.
Health costs 7 minute read
That Medicare premium may have a helper: ask about an MSP.
Medicare Savings Programs can be easy to miss because the state runs the application. The federal page says to apply even if you are not sure.
Home & utilities 6 minute read
Drafty house? Weatherization help is not the same as bill help.
LIHEAP may help with a bill. Weatherization may help fix the home that keeps making the bill. Homeowners and renters can ask.
Food & bills 5 minute read
Lifeline may trim a phone or internet bill. It is one benefit per household.
The old Affordable Connectivity Program ended. Lifeline is a different program and still has its own official application.
Work & taxes 6 minute read
Worked but made less? Check the EITC before you skip filing.
Some people miss the Earned Income Tax Credit because they do not think they need to file. The IRS has a free checker.
Home & utilities 6 minute read
Before you pay a ‘mortgage rescue’ company, call a HUD housing counselor.
A real housing counselor can help with rent, buying, default, foreclosure, and more. Foreclosure, eviction, and homeless counseling are free.
Health costs 6 minute read
Medicaid and CHIP do not wait for open enrollment.
You can apply any time of year. Children may qualify even when the adults in the same house do not.
Home & utilities 7 minute read
After the storm: five papers to keep before the cleanup swallows them.
Insurance and FEMA may ask for the same story in different ways. Take safe photos, keep receipts, and use DisasterAssistance.gov.
Work & taxes 6 minute read
Lost the job? File in the state where you worked, not where a search ad sends you.
Unemployment insurance is state-run. Start fast, save the confirmation, and keep doing the weekly steps your state requires.
Health costs 6 minute read
Extra Help is the plain name for help with Medicare drug costs.
It can lower Part D premiums, deductibles, and what you pay at the pharmacy. Some people get it automatically. Others need to apply.
Nothing there. Try one shorter word.