Financial hardship for any reason can be stressful. But there are many resources available to help you take care of yourself and your loved ones. These range from community to federal programs. They are often referred to as social services and include housing, food, utility and childcare assistance programs. Know that they exist to help you.

Exploring and using these resources doesn’t mean you or anyone else has failed. In fact, by exploring these services, you show that you are a strong person ready to take control. So, grab a pencil and paper or your device and get started on the path back to financial wellness.

Your employee assistance program (EAP)

You or a family member's employer has made an EAP available to you at no cost. An EAP provides many different services. These services include things like finding daycare to providing referrals for depression or anxiety. An EAP is confidential. Employers won't receive any information about your use of the program. To learn more about these services and how to contact a specialist, check out our EAP information page.

Food assistance

Food assistance programs can help you pay for groceries or provide free food until you are back on your feet. Some programs require that you meet certain criteria, while others are open to anyone. Two programs that might be able to help you are SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and local food pantries.

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). SNAP helps you buy basic healthy foods such as milk, bread, fruit, vegetables and meat. You do have to meet certain income criteria. But don’t assume that you don’t qualify. Check out the SNAP website to see if you qualify for the program.
Food pantries and food banks. Many communities have food pantries, food banks or free meal programs. They usually provide food staples or meals at no cost. These programs are supported through local churches, non-profit organizations and government grants. The Feeding America website can help you find local resources.

Mortgage or rent assistance

Mortgage and rent assistance programs can help you stay in or keep your home. They do this in several ways. They can:

Pay 100% of your housing costs for a specific period
Pay a portion of your housing costs for a specific period
Help you defer (delay) a payment for a specific period
Help you lower your monthly payment

Most major U.S. cities offer state or federally supported housing assistance programs. There are also thousands of local non-profit organizations that offer help. Here are a few organizations that can help you find mortgage or rent assistance:

Benefit Finder is an online survey from Benefits.gov that can help you find benefits you’re eligible for.
211.org connects to an expert on the phone to help you find resources.
USA.gov has information on both rental assistance and home buying assistance.

If you’re facing homelessness, you can use this Find Shelter Tool to see what is available in your area. A shelter is usually a short-time solution, providing you and your loved ones a safe place to stay while you find permanent housing. Sometimes they are full, so be sure to contact the shelter before you go.

Electricity, gas and water assistance

Don’t forget about assistance for utilities such as electricity, gas and water. Getting a little help here may ease financial stress and keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy. You will likely need to qualify for assistance. But again, do not assume that you don’t qualify. Check these resources for more information and to apply for assistance:

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers information about and support with energy costs.
Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) offers information about and support with water bills.

Childcare assistance

For some families, childcare is a big part of the household budget. Getting help to pay for all or some of the childcare costs can go a long way towards easing stress and anxiety. Try these links as a starting place for getting help paying for childcare:

Childcare.gov has information and programs to help pay for childcare.
211.org is a nationwide resource finder.

Tips for using social services

When applying for and using any social service, it is important that you follow all directions. If you are unsure, unclear or simply don’t understand something, ask questions. This will help you receive benefits that you qualify for. Keep in mind that there is a high demand for limited resources. Therefore, it is helpful to follow those directions, be on time for appointments and to treat workers assertively but respectfully.

Also remember to:

Respond quickly to paper mail, e-mail and voice mail messages.
Provide all requested documents. Your application may not get processed otherwise.
Answer all questions. Try to answer honestly and clearly.
Make and keep copies. Photocopy, save, scan or take a picture of all forms you submit.
Take notes. When you talk to someone, send in forms or even submit information via a website, keep notes. List the time, date and some details about what was discussed or submitted.

Conclusion

You aren’t alone. Thousands of people experience unexpected financial hardships every day. And thousands get back on their feet every day as well. Know that there are programs available to help you and your loved ones. Reach out, ask questions and use all the resources available to you.

Sources:

Childcare.gov. Paying for Childcare. Accessed Jan. 2024.

USA.gov. Housing Help. Accessed Jan. 2024

USDA Food and Nutrition Service. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Accessed Jan. 2024.

US Department of Health and Human Services. Office of Community Services Programs. Sept. 2022.

Getting help when dealing with a financial hardship

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