One of the hardest things to ask for, for many people is financial help. There can be a strong feeling of failure or embarrassment so many people avoiding asking and get in further trouble. If you are a person or family dealing with financial hardship, there is help out there and it’s easy enough to ask for. The support you can receive includes; help with food, shelter, basic necessities and even education for yourself and family. Learn about the different social services that are available to help maintain a certain standard of living or improve your current standard of living. Low Income Financial Help has provided five great resources to help with common financial issues.
HUD Portal
The US Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has a number of resources for those that are seeking assistance with their current or future housing situation. If you need Rental Assistance or financial aid to find housing this portal offers the most comprehensive choice. From private but subsidized housing, to finding public housing in your area to the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8), this portal covers most options for those in need of shelter.
Food & Nutrition Service
The United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service website offers the most comprehensive breakdown of federal programs offering food resources for those in need. You can find all their programs here. From their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), to specialty programs targeting at risk populations such as nursing mothers, children or native Americans and seniors. This federal service is responsible for most food distribution to state and local food banks and pantries as well as national food provision programs like food stamps.
Benefits, Grants & Loans
Sometimes you just need a little help whether it is through a grant, that you do not have to repay, a loan with forgiving terms and rates or benefits that you need, the USA.gov site provides a great resource. This includes free money for Americans that are in need, depending on the program. Topics include, housing, food and nutrition, seniors, veterans, business owners, families, education assistance, job and unemployment assistance and even farm or rural assistance. See if you qualify.
Educational Resources
Often assistance is supplemental but does not change your financial situation. Yet with the Federal Student Aid program, the assistance can substantially change your lifestyle by providing an education. The site helps you determine if you are eligible, what types of aid you may qualify for and how to apply for aid and prepare for college. The types of aid include low cost loans, grants, scholarships and work-study jobs. There is even a Free Application for Federal Student Aid ensuring all can apply.
Managing Your Finances
One of the better government services websites that can actually help you manage your monthly finances is the Federal Trade Commission website that helps with all manner of personal finance. The website provides a wealth of information on everyday financial burdens and how to either improve your situation or overcome it. From managing the process of owning or buying a car, dealing with debt either through better money management or debt consolidation to getting better employment and making more money. The website provides a number of advice articles and links to reputable services in financial matters should you need them.
There are many sites that purport to help you in your financial need, yet always visit reputable and government backed websites first to confirm the nature of the programs.