Many seniors struggle to make ends meet each month. This is because even if they get Social Security from the government it is not typically enough to live on. Add to that the fact that the cost of goods and services has been on the rise, and it is getting more challenging for many seniors to get all their bills paid. The good news is that there are welfare benefits for low income seniors and the programs can help ensure that basic needs are being met.
Without having welfare benefits for low income seniors, any would not be able to meet all their basic needs. Some would go hungry, lose their heating and cooling, and possibly even become homeless. There is only so much they can do with a fixed income each month that doesn’t take into account the increases that the nation has been experiencing in the costs of things.
By applying for welfare benefits those seniors who need extra help each month will be able to get it. There are welfare programs that will help ensure they have enough food, energy for the home, and that they maintain having a place to live. The programs are crucial to the survival of many low income seniors who would otherwise suffer and go without things.
Welfare Programs to Apply For
Below are some of the most popular welfare programs that seniors can apply for. Most of the programs are provided by the federal government, so they are open to everyone around the country. Apply for as many of them as you feel qualified for because there is no limit to how many you can receive assistance from at one time. Most programs require that the person show that they have a low income and that they are a citizen or legal non-citizen. There are a few programs that will provide assistance to those who are considered refugees.
Many of the programs will allow you to apply for them online. You can also usually go to your closest welfare or social services office to apply in person. Some of the programs have emergency assistance and will help you immediately, while others may take 30 days to get approved and started.
Social Security – This is not technically a welfare program because it is a system that those who work paid into. However, it is still important to list because any seniors who are eligible to start drawing their Social Security payments and are not and they are struggling financially should consider getting the payments. The longer you wait, the more money you will get per month. You can start drawing payments at 62, 65, and 70. People take it whenever they feel it is the right time to get it started. To qualify for monthly payments from this program, you have to have worked at least 10 years. To get more information about the program and take steps to start drawing payments, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Seniors who are struggling financially can get help paying for their groceries through this program, which used to be called food stamps. Those who qualify for the program will be given an electronic debit card and each month; the government will load funds onto it that can be used to pay for groceries. There is no limit to how long you can use this program. The amount that you are given depends on how many dependents there are in the home. To get more information and apply for SNAP, click here.
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Energy bills can create a challenge for many seniors, yet heating and cooling are essential. Seniors can apply for this program each year to get help paying their bills. LIHEAP will help pay for your heating or cooling bill. To qualify, the bill has to be in your name, and you have to have a low income. Those who are approved will have their bill paid for directly by the program, which is funded by the federal government. To get more information and apply for this program, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This is an agency of the federal government that is in charge of helping people with their housing needs. Those who have a low income can get help paying their rent, locating affordable housing options, avoiding foreclosure, using weatherization services, and getting help paying for house repairs. HUD has an office in every state, so you need to contact the one for your state. To locate your state’s HUD office, click here.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – This program is part of the Social Security program, but it focuses on providing assistance to those with disabilities or seniors who have no money. Those who are approved for the program will get monthly cash assistance, and it can be used for all types of living expenses. The amount you get each month depends on how much your earnings are, your living situation, your assets, and some other factors. This program is for those who have little or no income or disabilities and are over the age of 65. To get more information and apply, click here.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – TANF is typically for those who have dependents under the age of 18. However, the TANF program in each state often has a sub-program called General Assistance (GA) for people who do not have any dependents. This may help seniors who are struggling financially. Those who are approved for the GA program will get a cash payment each month that can be used for living expenses. There is usually a time limit on how long you can get help through this program. To get more information and apply, click here.
When you apply for the programs above, if you are approved, it may automatically qualify you for additional programs. The social services workers will provide you with details about that and ensure you know about the other programs you can qualify for.