When bills start piling up, it can be difficult to know where to turn for help. If you are struggling with rent, utilities, food, medical expenses, transportation, or other essential costs, there may be financial assistance programs and community resources available.
The type of help you can receive depends on your income, household size, location, the type of bill, and your individual circumstances. Government benefits, local organizations, nonprofits, and utility companies may all provide different forms of assistance.
What Bills May You Get Help With?
Depending on your situation, assistance may be available for:
- Rent and housing costs
- Electricity and energy bills
- Water and utility bills
- Food and groceries
- Medical and healthcare expenses
- Childcare costs
- Phone and internet bills
- Transportation expenses
- Emergency household expenses
- Other essential living costs
Government assistance categories can cover food, housing, utilities, healthcare, welfare, and other basic living expenses.
Who May Qualify?
Different programs have different eligibility requirements. You may be considered based on:
- Household income
- Number of people in your household
- Employment status
- Age
- Disability
- Whether you have children
- Housing situation
- Medical circumstances
- State or local residency
- Type of bill you need help paying
You do not necessarily need to be unemployed to qualify for assistance. Some programs are designed to help households with limited income or specific financial circumstances.
Check What You May Qualify For
If you are having trouble keeping up with your bills, finding the right programs can be overwhelming. OpenGrants Network helps you discover legitimate programs that may match your situation.
- ✓ Free eligibility check
- ✓ Free guidance if needed
Programs vary based on eligibility, location, household circumstances, and the type of assistance available.
Types of Bill Assistance to Explore
Help With Rent and Housing
Families and individuals experiencing financial hardship may qualify for rental assistance, emergency housing assistance, or other housing programs. State and local programs have different requirements. If you are having difficulty paying rent, it is generally better to seek help before receiving an eviction notice.
Help With Energy and Utility Bills
Programs such as LIHEAP can help eligible households with heating and cooling costs and, depending on location, other energy expenses. Utility companies may also offer payment plans or other assistance.
Help With Food Expenses
SNAP, WIC, food banks, and other community programs can help households reduce the amount they need to spend on groceries. Reducing food expenses can sometimes make it easier to keep up with other household bills.
Help With Medical Bills
People struggling with healthcare expenses may be able to find help through health coverage programs, local assistance, healthcare providers, and community organizations. Calling 211 can also help identify local resources for medical costs and prescriptions.
Help With Phone and Internet Bills
The federal Lifeline program provides discounts on qualifying phone or internet service for eligible low-income households.
Temporary Financial Assistance
Some families experiencing financial hardship may qualify for programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Depending on the state, TANF can help with expenses such as food, housing, home energy, and childcare.
How Bill Assistance Typically Works
- List the bills you are struggling to pay.
- Identify which expenses are most urgent.
- Look for programs that address each type of expense.
- Check the income and eligibility requirements.
- Gather documents such as identification, income records, and bills.
- Apply through the appropriate agency or organization.
- Contact the bill provider about payment arrangements if necessary.
If you are not sure where to begin, calling 211 can connect you with local resources for housing, utilities, food, healthcare, and other essential needs.