There are over 18 million veterans who live in America. While many of them have good jobs and can easily make ends meet, there are others who struggle financially. Some veterans may struggle due to medical issues, being between jobs, or being unable to find a job that pays a high enough salary. Regardless of the reason that some veterans in America struggle to pay the bills, it can be a stressful and frustrating experience. The good news is that there are low income financial assistance programs for veterans, and they can be helpful in making ends meet each month.
The most popular and widely used low income financial assistance programs for veterans are funded by the federal government. There are additional ones that are funded at the state level, and still other assistance programs are available through national charities and local organizations. Unlike loans, these programs never have to be paid back. They are intended to help those in need during difficult financial times.
Types of Low Income Financial Assistance Programs for Veterans
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Formerly known around the country as food stamps, SNAP is a program that provides monthly benefits that can be used to purchase food. The program is also referred to by other names in some states, such as Basic Food. Those who are approved for SNAP will receive a debit-style card, and each month their grant funds will be electronically added to it. You can then use that card to pay for food at the grocery store or farmer’s market. To qualify for SNAP, you have to meet the low income requirements, and be a citizen or legal immigrant. You can apply in person or online at an office near you. To apply, click here.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Veterans who need cash assistance may qualify for help through TANF. Those who qualify for the program will receive a monthly cash grant that can be used on a variety of living expenses, including housing, food, transportation, and paying bills. Most TANF programs around the country require that you have at least one dependent minor child in the home. There are some states that offer TANF grants to those without minor dependent children, and some that offer one-time cash payments to help individuals, as well as grandparents who care for their grandchildren. To qualify for TANF, you have to meet the low income requirements, and be a citizen or legal immigrant. Some states may require that you also participate in work training programs to receive the monthly grant. TANF is limited to 60 months during your adult lifetime in most states. You can apply at your local social services office or online. To apply, click here.
Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – There are energy grants available for veterans who need low income financial assistance. Some states use a variation of the name LIHEAP name, such as HEAP, but the programs all offer the same basic energy assistance. Those who need help paying their energy bill may qualify for a grant through LIHEAP. The program makes a one-time payment to help pay energy bills. They also offer weatherization services and emergency serves for those who are facing a disconnection. To qualify, you have to have a low income. The application dates vary by state, but you can re-apply for a grant each year. You can apply by contacting the LIHEAP distributor near you. To apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Veterans who need financial assistance to pay for their rent or mortgage may qualify for help through HUD. The HUD programs will help you pay rent, avoid foreclosure, pay for necessary home repairs, and help you locate affordable housing. HUD also offers a Section 8 voucher program, where they will help pay for a portion of our monthly housing bill. To qualify for the programs, you have to meet the low income requirements. To apply for the programs, you need to first contact the HUD office in your state. To apply, click here.
Lifeline Assistance – Veterans who need low income financial assistance programs may qualify for Lifeline Assistance. The program helps make having a phone more affordable. Those who qualify for the program will only have to pay $9.25 per month for a phone, whether a land line or cellular one, and the rest is paid by the government grant. To apply, click here.
There are low income financial assistance programs for veterans who need help paying the bills. The programs provide an important safety net to help those in need, while they strive to become self sufficient.