There are over 40,000 veterans who call the Austin area home. Veterans in Austin, just as in other areas of the country, may at times need some help getting all the bills paid. They may be between jobs, or they may not be able to find a job that pays a salary that is able to keep up with the rising cost of living. The good news is that there are grants for veterans in Austin, and they can be helpful during difficult financial times.
Unlike loans, the grants never have to be paid back. They are essentially considered to be a gift, intended for helping those in need. The grants for veterans in Austin will help people to pay their bills, buy food, obtain home repairs, and more. The most popular grants are state and federally funded, and are open to those who are citizens or legal immigrants.
Types of Grants for Veterans in Austin
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Veterans who need cash assistance may qualify for help through TANF. The TANF program will provide those who qualify with a monthly cash grant that can be used on living expenses. The grants can be used for rent, food, transportation, laundry, phone, utilities, and more. The amount of grant you receive is determined by your current income level and the number of dependents in your household. The program also provides one-time cash assistance payments, and one-time payments to help grandparents who are caring for their grandchildren. To qualify for TANF in Austin, you have to meet the low income requirements, and be a citizen or legal immigrant. You can apply for TANF online or at a community center in Travis County. To apply, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – There are grants to help people obtain food each month. Veterans who need food assistance may qualify for a monthly grant through SNAP. The monthly grant can be used to purchase food at the grocery store or farmer’s market. To qualify for the program, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal immigrant. You can apply for SNAP at a community center in Travis County or online. To apply, click here.
Rental Assistance – Veterans in Austin who need help with paying rent may qualify for assistance through Family Support Services. The program will help those in Austin by providing rent assistance, paying first and last month’s rent for transitional housing, and helping to make mortgage payments. If you are facing foreclosure, need affordable housing options, or need help making the deposit to move into a rental, the program may be able to assist you. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirement. You can apply at a community center in Travis County or online. To apply, click here.
Utility Assistance – Those who need help paying for their utility bills may qualify for the Utility Assistance program in Austin. The program will help those who qualify to pay for their utility bill, providing there is still grant money available. To qualify for the program, you have to meet the low income requirements, show proof of income for everyone over 18 who lives in the home, and provide a copy of your current utility bill. There is a cap on the number of times you can get assistance paying for your utility bill. You can apply at a Travis County community center or online. To apply, click here.
Travis County Home Repair Program – Veterans who need home repairs and live in the Austin area may qualify for assistance through the Travis County Home Repair Program. The program helps those who have a low income to obtain necessary home repairs. The types of repairs they will help provide include roofing, HVAC, electrical and plumbing, septic systems, ramps, railings, and grab bars. The program also provides weatherization services to those who have a low income. You can apply for the assistance at your local community center or online. To apply, click here.
The grants for veterans in Austin can be helpful during difficult times. From obtaining food and paying rent to repairing your roof, there are programs to help you make ends meet each month. Stop by your local community center to see what programs you qualify for, or apply for them online.