Check whether your income fits the limits for food, health care and energy help in your state: SNAP, Medicaid, WIC and LIHEAP income limits by state.
Check what help you qualify for
- Energy assistance programs and utility discount plans.
- Food assistance programs and local food banks.
- Lifeline and low-income internet programs where available.
- Hospital financial assistance (charity care) for medical bills. See help paying bills for where to start.
Lower fixed costs
- Switch to a prepaid or low-cost phone plan.
- Ask your internet provider about low-income plans.
- Ask landlords and lenders early if you will be late; many have hardship options.
Avoid costly traps
- Payday loans and rent-to-own deals.
- Overdraft fees: choose an account without them.
Save something, however small
- Round up purchases into savings.
- Save windfalls such as tax refunds.
- A small emergency fund prevents bigger debts later.
