You Are Due For An Upgrade: Check These Financial Assistance Programs

Author: Shannon Keys

During the pandemic, the government’s financial assistance came through for many people. While most of the pandemic-related aid has ended, there are still financial assistance programs that you can take advantage of post-pandemic.

This article gives an overview of some of the programs you can apply for and their eligibility. 

Financial Assistance Programs

These programs provide benefits in the form of payment, supplies, and help for people who cannot pay for basic living expenses due to low income or unemployed. 

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

The federal government funds the TANF program, but the state administers it. The TANF program offers grants to the state governments to help families financially and provide other related services and support. Initiatives may include childcare and work assistance, food, accommodation, and employment programs.

Who is Eligible?

While eligibility varies from state to state as each state sets its requirement, here are some general standards you must meet.

You must:

• Be a resident of the state in which you apply.
• Be unemployed, underemployed, and have a low income.
• Have a child below the age of 18.
• Be pregnant.

How to Apply for TANF

You can apply at your district community services office or call your state’s local TANF office for more details on how to enroll in the program.

• Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

The ACP is a federally funded program administered by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) that assists low-income households in paying for internet service and devices such as laptops and tablets.

Earlier this year, the ACP program took the place of the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB). It provides the maximum monthly discount of $30 for internet service and $75 for tribal land residents. It also offers a $100 value on laptops, desktop computers, or tablets.

Who is eligible for ACP?

• You are eligible if your household income is 200 percent or less of the federal poverty line.
• If you or someone in your household receives government assistance.
• You may be eligible for ACP if anyone in your household receives a Lifeline benefit.

You can apply for ACP online, by mail, or through your internet company.

• Women, Infants, and Children Nutrition Program (WIC)

The WIC program offers grant money to state governments to provide low-income women and children at nutritional risk with supplemental food, healthcare consultation, and nutrition knowledge.

Who is Eligible?

• Pregnant, nursing or postpartum women with low income are eligible.
• Children under the age of five

To apply for WIC, contact your state organization to set up an appointment, after which you will be directed to the nearest location for further requirements. 

Conclusion

While numerous assistance programs are available, you should be wary of grant scams that claim to give you money from the government. It would be best to remember that you must apply for these programs as the government will never contact you to offer you money. Overall, these financial aids can help keep you and your family afloat if you are struggling with your finances.