Let’s discover some of the most helpful Federal Benefit Programs available. These programs aim to provide low-income families with support to obtain basic necessities and help families achieve economic security and stability in a variety of ways. It’s important to note that each state varies in the benefits it will provide and you must check with your local agency for more specific information on each program.

Temporary Assistance For Needy Families (TANF)

• One of our nations primary programs for low-income families with children is TANF (previously known as Welfare) and provides a wide range of services. So let’s start with the basics, who qualifies? In order to qualify, you must be pregnant or responsible for a child under the age of 19. It is also required that you be a U.S. national, citizen, legal alien, or permanent resident. Lastly, you must have a low income, be unemployed or about to become unemployed. If you find yourself in these circumstances, the TANF program can provide financial assistance including childcare assistance, marriage and family services, job preparation, and work assistance. The long-term goal of TANF is to assist families in achieving self-sufficiency.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

• Families who struggle financially are often unable to obtain nourishing food. SNAP (previously known as Food Stamps) promotes healthy eating as well as accessibility of these options to individuals in need. To find out if you qualify you must visit the pre-screening tool. The application process includes an interview and it’s possible to receive benefits within 7 days of applying. Once accepted, you will receive an Electronic Benefit Transfer card that works just like a debit card and you can use it to buy groceries at authorized stores. The food we eat enables us to be healthy and productive. Balanced nutrition is essential for everyone.

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

• Early childhood is one of the most important times for growth and development. WIC helps ensure mother and child are provided with access to a healthy lifestyle during these critical stages. Specifically, WIC provides food to low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum women as well as to infants and children up to five who are considered to be a nutritional risk. The benefits of WIC include supplemental nutritious foods, nutrition education and counseling at specific clinics as well all screening and referrals to other health, welfare, and social services.

Medicare

• Health-care costs are a growing issue in our country and often leave individuals in a tough predicament when choosing between their health and finances.  Medicare is the federal insurance program for individuals 65 and over (it also covers younger individuals with disabilities).  The program consists of 4 different parts including Hospital Insurance, Medical Insurance, Medicare Advantage Plans and Prescription Drug Coverage. 

Medicaid

• In contrast to Medicare which has age restrictions, Medicaid is available to a larger number of individuals.  Like the other programs mentioned, Medicaid varies from state to state but generally provides free or low-cost care for low-income people, families, and children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with disabilities.  In some states, Medicaid has expanded to cover all adults below a certain income level. See if you qualify for Medicaid based on your income.  State-sponsored health insurance can help you and your family stay healthy and maintain stable finances.

While we have mentioned some of the top federal benefit programs in this article, there are many more that can assist with other life situations and needs.  Learn about a tool linking individuals to benefits in their local area.

Discover Top Federal Food Assistance Programs.