Financial Assistance Programs for Veterans

There are over 18 million veterans around the country. Depending on what area of the country they live in and what their circumstances are, they may at times experience financial difficulties. This can be brought on by being between jobs, having a medical condition, or being unable to find a job that pays a high enough salary to keep pace with the rising cost of living. The good news is that there are financial assistance programs for veterans, and they can help pay the bills during these difficult times.

The most popular financial assistance programs for veterans are funded by the federal government. They provide financial assistance to those in need and the funds never have to be paid back. The funds are essentially considered to be a gift to help people meet their basic needs when cash flow is limited. These financial assistance programs can help you obtain food, pay rent, pay utility bills, and more.

Types of Financial Assistance Programs for Veterans

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Veterans who need help obtaining food may qualify for SNAP. The program provides those who are eligible with a monthly grant that can be used to purchase food at the grocery store or farmer’s market. The amount you receive each month depends on the number of dependents you have, as well as what your income level is. To qualify for SNAP, you have to meet the low income requirements, and be a citizen or legal immigrant. You can apply in person at your local social services office, and some states allow you to apply online. In some areas of the country, the program is referred to as Basic Food or food stamps. To apply, click here.

 Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Those who need cash assistance may qualify for monthly assistance through the TANF program. The program provides those who are eligible with a monthly cash grant that can be used on a variety of living expenses. The funds can be used on paying bills, housing, transportation, food, and more. To qualify for TANF, you need to have at least one minor dependent child in the home. There is typically a 60-month limit on how long you can receive the TANF assistance. Those who do not have minor dependent children may qualify for General Assistance, offered in many states. General Assistance is the same type of program, but for those without minor children. It is offered in some states around the country. The TANF program in some states also offers one-time cash payments to individuals, and one-time payments to grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. To qualify for TANF, you have to meet the low income requirements, and be a citizen or legal immigrant. You can apply at your local social services office, and some states allow you to apply online. To apply, click here.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – There is financial assistance for veterans who need help paying for their heating or cooling bill. LIHEAP provides grants, which will help pay for your energy bills. The program makes a one-time payment directly to your energy provider on your behalf. You can re-apply for the program each year. To meet the qualifications, you have to have a low income. The program also provides emergency assistance for those who have received a disconnect notice, and weatherization services. You can apply at your local community action center. To apply, click here.

Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Veterans who need financial assistance to help with their housing needs may qualify for programs through HUD. The HUD programs will help people pay rent, avoid foreclosure, and obtain necessary home repairs. They can also help you locate affordable housing in your area. To qualify for the programs, you have to have a low income. To begin the application process, you first need to speak with a HUD counselor in your state, who will assess your current financial situation and housing needs. To apply, click here.

Lifeline Assistance – There is a financial assistant program for veterans that will help make having a phone more affordable. Those approved for the Lifeline Assistance program will only have to pay $9.25 per month for their phone. To qualify for the program, you have to meet the low income requirements. To apply, click here.

The financial assistance programs for veterans will help during difficult financial times. They provide a safety net to ensure your basic needs are being met, while you strive to become self sufficient. The programs are available around the country and available to all who qualify.