Financial assistance comes in many forms — grants, vouchers, tax credits, and subsidized services. Most Americans qualify for at least one program they're not currently using.
Types of Financial Assistance
Direct Grants — Money you receive and don't repay. Includes Pell Grants, state education grants, and emergency assistance.
Vouchers & Subsidies — Programs that pay a portion of your housing, childcare, or healthcare costs. Section 8, CCAP childcare subsidies, and Marketplace health subsidies work this way.
Tax Credits — Money returned to you through the tax system. EITC (up to $7,430), Child Tax Credit ($2,000/child), and Child & Dependent Care Credit are the biggest.
Forgivable Loans — Down payment assistance that converts to a grant if you stay in the home for a set period. Many state housing programs work this way.
In-Kind Assistance — Services provided directly instead of cash. SNAP food benefits, Medicaid healthcare, WIC food packages, and weatherization services.
Financial Assistance by Life Situation
- Single parents: SNAP, CCAP childcare, EITC, Head Start, WIC, TANF
- Students: Pell Grant, SEOG, state grants, Work-Study
- Homebuyers: Down payment assistance, FHA loans, state housing programs
- Small businesses: SBIR, SBA loans, state economic development grants
- Seniors: SSI, Medicare Savings Programs, LIHEAP, Senior Farmers Market
- People with disabilities: SSDI, SSI, Medicaid waiver programs, vocational rehab
- Unemployed workers: Unemployment insurance, WIOA job training, SNAP