7 Government Programs You Probably Didn’t Know You Qualify For

Millions of people in the U.S. qualify for government benefits and programs, but never apply, simply because they are unaware of their existence or assume they won’t qualify. Whether you’re a student, a parent, a job seeker, a senior, or a low-income family, you could be missing out on free help.

Here are 7 surprising government programs that could save you money, lower your bills, or help you get ahead.

1. Lifeline Program: Discounted Phone and Internet

What is it? Lifeline is a federal program that helps low-income households get affordable phone or internet service.

What do you get? Up to $9.25 off your monthly phone or internet bill, or more on tribal lands. Many people combine it with providers that offer free smartphones.

Who qualifies? If your income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty level, or if you receive SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or other benefits.

How to apply: Visit the Lifeline support page.

2. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

What is it? SNAP (also known as Food Stamps) helps millions of people buy food each month. Many people believe they earn too much to qualify, but part-time workers, low-income students, and seniors often qualify too.

What do you get? An EBT card with money to buy food each month.

Who qualifies? Low-income individuals or families; eligibility depends on income, household size, and some expenses.

How to apply: Contact your local state SNAP office or visit Benefits.gov.

3. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

What is it? LIHEAP helps people pay their heating or cooling bills. It can also help with weatherization to reduce future bills.

What do you receive? A one-time payment or ongoing help with utility bills, depending on your state.

Who qualifies? Low-income households; income limits vary by state. Seniors and families with young children are given priority in some states.

How to apply: Search “LIHEAP” + your state name or visit Benefits.gov.

4. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

What is it? WIC helps pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5 get healthy foods, formula, nutrition education, and health referrals.

What you get: EBT cards for free milk, infant formula, fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods.

Who qualifies? Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, postpartum mothers, and children under 5 with low or moderate income.

How to apply: Visit your local WIC office or search your state’s WIC website through the USDA WIC.

5. Free Tax Help — Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

What it is: Filing taxes can be stressful and expensive, but VITA offers free tax help if you meet certain requirements.

What you get: IRS-trained volunteers prepare and file your taxes for free.

Who qualifies: If you earn less than $60,000 a year, have a disability, or have limited English proficiency.

How to apply: Find a local VITA site on the IRS VITA Locator.

6. Federal Student Loan Forgiveness or Repayment Assistance

What it is: Many people are unaware that they may qualify for loan forgiveness, income-driven repayment plans, or a deferral to lower their monthly payments.

What you get: Forgiveness after a certain number of payments, lower payments tied to your income, or temporary pauses in payments.

Who qualifies: Public service workers, teachers, nurses, and anyone with federal student loans who meets certain requirements.

How to apply: See your options at StudentAid.gov.

7. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

What it is: SSI provides monthly payments to adults and children with disabilities or blindness who have limited income and resources. People 65 and older may also qualify, even without disabilities.

What you get: Monthly cash payments to help cover your basic needs.

Who qualifies: People with very limited income and assets, including some seniors with little or no retirement income.

How to apply: Visit SSA.gov.

Bottom Line

Millions of people leave money and benefits unclaimed each year. Whether you’re a student, a senior, or a working parent, these programs exist to help you. A few minutes checking your eligibility could lead to big savings and help you live with less stress.