Every year, millions of Americans leave thousands of dollars on the table by not applying for government benefits they’re eligible for. Whether it’s help with groceries, health insurance for kids, or discounts on internet bills, the government has programs designed to make life more affordable. The challenge? Many people don’t know these programs exist or think they won’t qualify.
This guide breaks down 10 of the most overlooked benefits, explains who qualifies, and shows you how to apply step by step.
1. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- What it is: The nation’s largest food assistance program, formerly called “food stamps.” SNAP provides monthly funds on an EBT card, which works like a debit card at grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and even some online retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
- Who qualifies: Eligibility depends on income, household size, and certain expenses. For example, in 2025, a family of 4 typically qualifies if their gross monthly income is under about $3,500.
- How much you could get: The average benefit per person is around $200–$250/month, but families can receive much more.
- How to apply: Applications are state-based. Go to Benefits.gov SNAP page → Select your state → Complete the application online or at a local office.
2. Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
- What it is: A federal program that lowers your internet bill by up to $30/month (or $75/month if you live on Tribal lands). Some providers also offer a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop, or tablet.
- Who qualifies:
- If your household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- OR if you already participate in SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, SSI, or Lifeline.
- Why it matters: Internet is essential for school, job searches, and telehealth. ACP ensures families don’t have to choose between groceries and connectivity.
- How to apply: Visit affordableconnectivity.gov → Fill out application → Contact your internet provider to apply the discount.
3. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- What it is: Helps low-income households cover heating, cooling, and even weatherization costs. Payments are made directly to your utility company to lower your bills.
- Who qualifies: Each state sets its own income guidelines, but generally households at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Line qualify.
- How much you could get: Depending on the state, assistance can range from a few hundred to over $1,000 per year.
- Other perks: Some states also provide free home energy audits, repairs, and weatherization upgrades.
- How to apply: Visit Benefits.gov LIHEAP page → Find your local LIHEAP office → Apply with proof of income and utility bills.
4. WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
- What it is: Provides nutrition assistance for pregnant women, new mothers, and children under age 5. Benefits include free healthy foods, formula, breastfeeding support, and healthcare referrals.
- Who qualifies: Low-income women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or postpartum, plus children up to age 5.
- Why it’s important: WIC helps ensure children get a healthy start in life with proper nutrition.
- How to apply: Contact your local WIC agency (usually at county health departments). Use WIC locator.
5. Unclaimed Money & Refunds
- What it is: Billions of dollars sit unclaimed with the government from uncashed checks, old savings accounts, insurance refunds, and even unclaimed tax refunds.
- Who qualifies: Anyone! If you’ve ever moved, changed jobs, or forgotten about a bank account, you might have money waiting.
- How to find it:
- State unclaimed property: Unclaimed.org → Select your state → Search your name.
- IRS refunds: IRS.gov/refunds.
- Fun fact: Some people discover hundreds or even thousands of dollars they didn’t know they had.
6. Medicaid & CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program)
- What it is: Free or low-cost health insurance for low-income families, children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities.
- Who qualifies: Income requirements vary by state, but generally, families at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level qualify. CHIP specifically covers children whose families make too much for Medicaid but still struggle with private insurance costs.
- What’s covered: Doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, vaccinations, and more.
- How to apply: Apply through Healthcare.gov or your state’s Medicaid office.
7. Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)
- What it is: A rent assistance program where the government pays a portion of your rent directly to your landlord.
- Who qualifies: Very low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities. Priority is often given to those with the greatest housing needs.
- Why it matters: Housing is usually the largest monthly expense — vouchers can make stable housing affordable.
- How to apply: Contact your local Public Housing Authority (PHA) through HUD.gov. Note: Waitlists can be long, so apply early.
8. Lifeline Program (Free or Discounted Phone Service)
- What it is: Offers free or heavily discounted cell phone or landline service for qualifying households. Often paired with ACP for both internet and phone savings.
- Who qualifies: If you receive SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing, or your income is at or below 135% of Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- What’s included: Up to $9.25/month discount (or $34.25 on Tribal lands). Some providers offer free smartphones and unlimited talk/text plans.
- How to apply: Apply at LifelineSupport.org.
9. Federal Student Loan Forgiveness Programs
- What it is: Programs that forgive part or all of your federal student loans if you work in certain jobs or meet specific requirements.
- Who qualifies:
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Nonprofit or government employees who make 120 qualifying payments.
- Teacher Loan Forgiveness: Teachers in low-income schools may qualify for up to $17,500 forgiven.
- Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) Forgiveness: Any borrower who makes payments based on income for 20–25 years.
- How to apply: Visit studentaid.gov for application forms and guidance.
10. Social Security Extra Benefits
- What it is: Beyond retirement, Social Security also provides disability, survivor, and spousal benefits.
- Who qualifies:
- Workers who become disabled before retirement.
- Spouses and children of workers who pass away.
- Divorced spouses (in some cases).
- Why it matters: Millions of families rely on Social Security as a safety net.
- How to apply: Visit SSA.gov or call your local Social Security office.
Conclusion:
From food and housing help to phone discounts and loan forgiveness, government benefits exist to make life more manageable. Even if you think you won’t qualify, it’s worth checking — many programs serve middle-income families too. Don’t let money or support slip through your fingers.
Next Step: Take 10 minutes today to explore at least one of these programs. You might discover hidden help waiting for you.