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Food, shelter, and healthcare are expensive. So many families in the United States live paycheck to paycheck.
According to Statista, in 2022, about 7.4 million families lived below the poverty line—but even some above it struggled to pay their bills. Thankfully, there are plenty of government programs to help. Unfortunately, many people don’t know about these programs.
To help, I’ve curated a list of government programs that help with the internet, cell phones, groceries, medical care, and more.
What follows is a list of 12 government programs you may not don’t know about that could save you thousands. It’s important to note that each government program has its own requirements to qualify for assistance.
1. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, is a great program that can make groceries more affordable. Every month, SNAP recipients receive money on a card for groceries.
This program supports low-income families and seniors. SNAP benefits are accepted virtually everywhere. With this program, you can buy meat, dairy, non-alcoholic drinks, fruits and vegetables, and seeds.
2. Lifeline Program
Have you ever heard of the Lifeline Program? It’s a federal government program that provides discounts and support for internet and phone costs.
While the internet and phones might not sound necessary, getting a job, paying bills, and finding housing without either one is challenging. This program has been around since 1985. The price of internet and phone service varies.
3. Affordable Care Act (ACA)
Health is vital. You can’t put your health on the back burner, but many people do. And can you blame them? Even a simple visit to the doctor’s office could cost you hundreds.
A government program that can help with these costs is health insurance credits through the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The tax credit depends on the number of people in your household, state, and household income.
4. Child Care and Development Fund
Childcare is extremely expensive in the United States. According to a Care survey, respondents spend about 24% of their income on childcare—nearly a quarter of a family’s income!
Thankfully, some government programs can alleviate this hefty cost. One of these is the Child Care and Development Fund. The program requirements and funds depend on the state.
5. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) has existed since 1997. It’s a government program that provides cash assistance to families in need, offering supplemental aid to cover costs like rent and utilities.
You may also know TANF as welfare. Although federally funded, this program is state-run. TANF can also help with job training.
6. Free School Lunch and Breakfast
I grew up using many different government programs. One of them was free lunch and breakfast at school. It really helped my parents out, considering they had three kids and only one parent working after the 2008 crisis.
Each state, county, and school district has its own program. Another popular one is the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). The program helps children in low-income households.
7. First-Time Home Buyer Grants
Buying a home is not easy. You have to budget for a large deposit, closing costs, and overall emergency savings.
The median home price in the United States in June 2024 was $363,438. First-time home buyer programs can alleviate this high cost. Check with your state, city, and county. Generally, first-time home buyer programs help with deposits and closing costs. The amount depends on your household size and income.
8. Medicare
Medicare is one of the most well-known government programs. It’s a type of health insurance for adults 65 and over and individuals with disabilities. Medicare can really help you in a tough spot.
This is a perfect federal medical program for retirees. The application is simple and can be started online.
9. Supplemental Security Income Program (SSI)
Supplemental Security Income Program (SSI) doesn’t just save you money; it also provides you with money. This supplemental income is for low-income adults 65 and over.
You can also be eligible for SSI if you’re an adult with disabilities or blind. As of June 2024, the maximum monthly SSI for one adult is $943; for couples, the maximum is $1,415.
10. Pell Grant
Are you looking to go back to school? Do you need assistance with tuition and textbooks? Then, consider applying for the federal Pell Grant. I used the Pell Grant to pay for my two-year degree at a community college.
The application is pretty simple. You can find it online. It’s also known as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA.)
11. Head Start
Childcare and education for the young aren’t easy to pay for. Another way you can save thousands of dollars on childcare is through Head Start. Head Start programs are for children up to five years old.
Families eligible for this program must be at or below the federal poverty line. The programs are locally designed and vary a lot.
12. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program
Last but not least is the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. This program helps eligible families with rising energy costs. You can also qualify for state and local low-income energy programs to maximize savings.
This program provides help with paying energy bills, equipment repairs, and energy education. Another benefit of this program is weatherization support and crisis and disaster assistance.
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