It’s a question that many people are either too embarrassed or too intimidated to ask: “What kind of aid am I qualified to receive?” Fortunately, the agencies that are set up to match people in need with the right benefits make it easier to determine than you might think.
If you’re worried about how to go about getting aid for yourself and your family — or to guide a loved one who resists learning about potential federal and state benefits — knowing what help is available is the best way to start.
SNAP
What is it?
Once known as Food Stamps, SNAP stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Rather than the actual paper stamps of the past, you can typically access your monthly amount through an EBT (electronic benefits transfer) card. any places that sell food take these cards, including grocery stores, food co-op programs, farmers’ markets and convenience stores.
Who can receive it?
The good news is that SNAP is designed to take multiple life situations into account, rather than just one criterion, such as income. The “bad” news isn’t so bad — simply that there’s a bit of formula involved that factors in elements such as age, the number of people in the household, expenses, and personal resources.
The counselors in your state’s coordinating agency can help you determine how much SNAP aid you qualify for, and of course to set you up to receive it — often, over the phone. Even better, you can get a sense of your potential benefit by using the USDA’s online pre-screening tool before you ever need to talk to a person.
WIC
What is it?
WIC is short for Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children. As its name suggests, WIC exists to ensure a nutritious diet to babies and young children. Because a healthy, adequate diet in pregnant and nursing women is also integral to children’s health, the program also provides supplemental food for mothers, as well as to those who recently gave birth. Monthly funds to buy certain food and supplies are usually available on an EBT card.
Who can receive it?
Children under age 5 in lower-income families qualify for WIC, as do women who are breastfeeding, pregnant or in the postpartum stage.
Current WIC guidelines state that your gross (pre-tax) income has to be at or below 185 percent of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines, depending on the size of your household. The USDA provides a useful chart showing the highest income allowed to receive WIC benefits.
TANF
What is it?
TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) is still sometimes referred to by the catch-all term “welfare.” In general, TANF provides temporary supplemental income for those who meet the qualifications. It may also help provide job training, child care, and education.
Who can receive it?
The specific benefits and eligibility requirements vary from state to state. Often, an online calculator, such as that provided by the State of Utah, will give you some idea of the TANF benefits for which you might be eligible.
Federal guidelines stipulate that no one can receive the benefits for longer than 60 months, except in cases of extreme hardship or disability. There is often a “work activity” component of TANF that must be agreed to by at least one adult in the family.
We’re Here to Help
Even with online calculators and state agencies on hand to help you determine what aid is out there, it can get overwhelming. Contact us if you’re confused about how to navigate the above benefits, as well as other potential support.