How the Government Can Help

When you’re struggling to keep up with bills, government programs can help bridge the gap. From housing and energy assistance to healthcare and food support, these resources are built to provide short-term relief and long-term stability.

1) Rent & Housing Support

• Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA): Helps renters pay current and past-due rent directly to landlords. nlihc.org/rental-assistance
• HUD Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8): Ongoing rent subsidy based on income.
• Public Housing Programs: Affordable housing managed through local housing authorities.

2) Utility & Energy Assistance

• LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program): Covers heating, cooling, and electricity costs for qualifying households.
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Provides free home energy upgrades to reduce future bills.
• Water and Sewer Relief: Many cities now offer similar programs for water utilities.

3) Food & Nutrition Assistance

• SNAP (Food Stamps): Monthly funds to help buy groceries at approved retailers.
• WIC: Nutrition program for pregnant women, infants, and young children.
• National School Lunch Program: Free or reduced-cost meals for children in school.

4) Medical & Health Cost Relief

• Medicaid: Free or low-cost healthcare for eligible low-income individuals and families.
• CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program): Covers doctor visits, immunizations, and prescriptions for children.
• Prescription Savings: Check RxAssist.org for programs that lower or eliminate medication costs.

5) Income & Emergency Cash Programs

• TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families): Monthly cash aid for essentials like rent, food, and utilities.
• Unemployment Benefits: Temporary income support for workers who lost jobs through no fault of their own.
• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Refundable credit for low- to moderate-income workers — available during tax season.

6) Internet & Communication Assistance

• Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): Up to $30/month off internet or wireless plans, plus discounts on laptops or tablets. affordableconnectivity.gov
• Lifeline: $9.25 monthly discount on phone or broadband service.

7) How to Apply

1. Visit USA.gov/benefits for an official list of programs.
2. Gather identification, proof of income, and recent bills or rent statements.
3. Apply online or through your local social services office.
4. Follow up with your caseworker or agency for updates.

Common Questions

• Can I apply for multiple programs? Yes. You can combine housing, energy, and food aid if you qualify for each.
• Do I have to repay benefits? No. Most assistance programs are grants, not loans.
• What if I was denied? You can appeal or reapply when your financial situation changes.

Final Thoughts

Getting help with bills is nothing to be ashamed of — these programs exist to keep households stable and safe. Whether you’re dealing with a job loss, rising costs, or unexpected hardship, there’s a path forward through verified government and community assistance options.