If your household income is limited, you may be eligible for a range of federal assistance programs that cover food, healthcare, housing, utilities, and cash support. These programs exist specifically for people who need help meeting basic needs – and many families who qualify never apply.
Here’s an overview of the major government benefit programs for low-income households.
SNAP: Food Assistance
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly grocery benefits via EBT card. The income limit is generally 130% of the federal poverty level (about $1,580/month for one person in 2026). Average benefit is around $200/month per person. Apply through your state SNAP office or benefits.gov.
Medicaid: Health Coverage
Medicaid provides free or very low-cost health coverage to low-income individuals and families. In expansion states, eligibility is primarily income-based – single adults earning up to about $21,000/year typically qualify. Medicaid covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health services, and more. Apply through your state Medicaid agency or at healthcare.gov.
CHIP: Children’s Health Coverage
The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) covers children in families that earn too much for Medicaid but can’t afford private insurance. Income limits vary by state but typically extend to 200-300% of the federal poverty level. Apply through your state or at healthcare.gov.
LIHEAP: Utility Assistance
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay heating and cooling bills for qualifying households. Income limits are generally 150% of the federal poverty level, though states vary. Contact your local community action agency or state energy office to apply – funding is seasonal and limited, so apply early.
Section 8 / Housing Choice Vouchers
HUD’s Housing Choice Voucher Program subsidizes rent so that low-income families pay no more than 30% of their income on housing. Income limits are generally 50% of the Area Median Income. Most housing authorities have waiting lists, but it’s worth applying – and emergency preferences can move some applicants faster. Apply through your local Public Housing Authority at hud.gov.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI provides monthly cash payments to people 65+, blind, or disabled with very limited income and resources. The maximum benefit is $967/month for individuals in 2026. Most SSI recipients also automatically qualify for Medicaid. Apply through the Social Security Administration.
WIC: Nutrition for Mothers and Young Children
WIC provides food vouchers and nutrition support to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children up to age 5. Income limit is 185% of the federal poverty level. Apply through your state health department or at wic.fns.usda.gov.
TANF: Cash Assistance for Families
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) provides short-term cash assistance and support services to low-income families with children. Benefits and rules vary significantly by state. Contact your state’s social services or welfare agency to apply.
Lifeline: Discounted Phone or Internet
The FCC’s Lifeline program provides a $9.25/month discount on phone or internet service for households at or below 135% of the federal poverty level, or those participating in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or similar programs. Apply at lifelinesupport.org.
Find What You Qualify For
Most programs have different eligibility rules and income limits. The fastest way to see what you may qualify for is to use a free benefits screener.
Check your eligibility in minutes.
Use the Benefits Finder tool to see food assistance, healthcare, housing, utilities, and more – based on your household size and income.
Money Instructor does not provide legal or financial advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only. Program eligibility, benefit amounts, and funding availability change. Verify current requirements with the administering federal or state agency.