Low-income assistance programs help cover the costs of basic needs – food, healthcare, housing, utilities, and more – for households that can’t afford them on their own. If you’re struggling financially, you likely qualify for at least one of these programs, and possibly several.
Here are the main federal programs to know about and how to access them.
Food: SNAP
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) provides monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card. Income limit: 130% of the federal poverty level (~$1,580/month for one person in 2026). Apply through your state SNAP office or benefits.gov.
Health Coverage: Medicaid and CHIP
Medicaid provides free or very low-cost health coverage to low-income adults and families. In most states, single adults earning up to about $21,000/year qualify. CHIP covers children in families with slightly higher income. Apply at healthcare.gov or your state Medicaid office.
Cash Assistance: SSI and TANF
SSI (Supplemental Security Income) provides monthly cash to people 65+, blind, or disabled with limited income – up to $967/month for individuals in 2026. TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) provides short-term cash and services to low-income families with children. Rules and amounts vary by state.
Housing: Section 8 and Public Housing
The Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) subsidizes rent so you pay no more than 30% of your income. Public housing provides income-based rent in government-owned units. Both programs have waiting lists – apply early through your local Public Housing Authority at hud.gov.
Utilities: LIHEAP
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) helps pay heating and cooling bills. Income limit is generally 150% of the federal poverty level. Apply through your local community action agency – funds open seasonally and are limited, so apply early.
Phone and Internet: Lifeline
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 participating in SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI. Apply at lifelinesupport.org.
Families With Children: WIC and School Meals
WIC provides food benefits to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and children up to age 5. The National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program provide free or reduced-price meals to eligible students – apply through your child’s school.
Find Everything You Qualify For
Each program has its own eligibility rules. The fastest way to see what you may qualify for is to use a free benefits screener.
Check your eligibility in minutes – no cost, no obligation.
Use the Benefits Finder tool to check food, 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 levels change. Verify current requirements with the administering federal or state agency.