If you are one of the many people living in the U.S. struggling with rent and utility costs, financial assistance is available. Whether you were impacted financially by COVID-19 or are dealing with a sudden emergency, help is not just available through the government, but also through some religious organizations, and non-profit agencies. Here’s what you need to know:
Every state in the US has a 2-1-1 line where you can call in to speak with someone and get information about what resources are available in your city. This is similar to 9-1-1 for emergencies. Many states you can speak to someone in Spanish and can help you figure out which agency can really help you- with a gas card, a bus ticket, groceries, etc.
Before you get behind on your utility bill, you should know that help is available through your utility company directly. To prevent getting your electricity turned off, contact your utility company and they will work with you to come up with a payment plan that is right for you.
Nearly every city in the United States has food pantries to provide free food for those in need. If your family needs some basic items to cook at home you can find a local site by using this super helpful Spanish search tool. https://whyhunger.org/find-food-es/. Just type your zip code and you will find details and locations of a food pantry near you.
Another great resource is for expecting families, free car seats for infants! Many police stations have a certified trainer to assist new parents to learn how to install and use their carseat and some also give away new car seats for families who are low-income. Another great option is to speak with you OBGYN or to the hospital where you will deliver your baby. They have case workers on site who can help you find a free carseat and sometimes are able to help you find one.
If you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident, you may qualify for the government’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and receive cash to pay your utility bill.
Here are some other programs that offer financial assistance for utilities and other emergencies:
The Heating System Repair and Replacement Program (HEARTWAP)
Helps with: repairing or replacing heating and cooling systems and water heaters
Qualifications:
- Income cannot exceed 60% of the Estimated State Median Income
- Must be a homeowner, not a landlord
- Repairs or replacements of heating systems are done in winter and must be an emergency
How to apply: contact the Fuel Assistance agency in your city
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
Helps with: necessary home repairs for weatherproofing
Qualifications:
- Households at or below 200% of the poverty income guidelines
- Prioritizes people over the age of 60, families with one or more members with a disability, and families with children or high energy users
- Repairs must make the home more energy-efficient and reduce energy bills
How to apply: click here for steps
Emergency Assistance for Adults (EAA)
Helps with: emergencies such as help with rent, electric and other utilities, housing, moving expenses
Qualifications:
- Varies by state, but most often an individual or family member will have to qualify for SSI
How to apply: search “emergency assistance for adults” online and browse for information from your state
Emergency Assistance to Families (EAF)
Helps with: financial, physical, or family emergencies such as with rent, childcare, heating fuel, evictions, utilities, and safe housing for domestic violence
Qualifications:
- Presence of a minor child(ren)
- Income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level for household size
- Assistance is necessary to avoid destitution of the child
How to apply: search “emergency assistance to families” online and browse for information from your state. In many states you can apply at your county job assistance center
Energy Crisis Interventions Programs (name varies from state to state)
Helps with: preventing utility disconnections and reconnection of services
Qualifications vary from state to state but are usually:
- Have a current, pre-approved HEAP application
- Have exhausted all payment options with your electric company
How to apply: search “Energy Crisis Interventions Programs + your state” online and browse for information from your state
Charities like Modest Needs and Salvation Army offer many of their own assistance programs that are not limited to utility help and housing.
Here are a few more resources:
Free Internet and Smartphone Benefit
10 Catholic Charities Assistance Programs
Government Grants for Low-Income Families
