Even though Idaho has a lower cost of living than many other states, there are still many people who struggle financially. Inflation has made everything more costly in recent years, and for most people the salaries have not kept pace. This has led to financial challenges for many people. The good news is that there are programs offering money assistance for paying bills in Idaho.
Whether you need short term financial assistance or long term help, the programs that offer money assistance for paying bills in Idaho are open to everyone has a low income. They often also require that you be a citizen or legal non-citizen. The programs can help ensure that your basic needs are being met. It is important for people to know about these programs, so that they can meet those basic needs for themselves and their family.
Money Assistance Programs in Idaho
The programs below have been created to help people who are struggling financially. They are open to everyone who has a low income and needs the assistance. You never have to pay the funds back, because it is not considered a loan, and you can get help from multiple programs at the same time. Apply for as many as you feel that you are qualified for.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This agency has a mission of helping to reduce homelessness in the country. It is part of the federal government and they have offices all over the country. They provide housing assistance to those who have a low income. Whether you need money assistance for paying the rent or you could use assistance paying for a new water heater, HUD may be able to provide the help. HUD can also help people find affordable housing options in your area, and they provide weatherization services, which will help make the home more energy efficient and reduce monthly energy bills. To get more information and apply for help at the HUD office in Idaho, click here.
Temporary Assistance for Families in Idaho (TAFI) – This is the same as the program called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) in other states. Those who need money assistance and have a low income may be able to get help through this federally funded program. TAFI will provide a monthly cash benefit to those who qualify. The cash can be used to pay for a wide variety of living expenses. There is a limit of 24 months for how long you can receive TAFI. The maximum benefit paid out is $309 per month. The money will be direct deposited into your bank account each month if you are approved for the program. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Medicaid – Those who need help paying for medical related expenses may be able to get assistance through the Medicaid program. This program is funded by the federal government. Those who are approved for the program will get help paying for doctor visits, prescription drugs, hospital stays, and more. There is no limit to how long you can get help through the Medicaid program in Idaho. As long as you have a low income and need the bill payment assistance you can qualify to get the help. They do also require that you are citizen or legal non-citizen in order be approved for the program. The program will help cover medical care costs for your whole family. To get more information and apply for the assistance, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program provides money assistance for paying energy bills. Those who are approved will get help paying for their energy bill, with the funds being sent to the energy provider on your behalf. They also help lower your monthly energy bills by providing weatherization services. This program is funded through a federal block grant, which means they have money to help people until the funds run out, then they have to wait until they get another block grant to help more people. You should apply as often as possible if you continue to need the bill payment assistance. To get more information and apply for help paying your energy bill, click here.
211 – This is a number anyone in the country can call if they need assistance and are struggling. Once you call them they will help you find resources in your area that you can use to help meet your specific needs. The program is offered through the United Way and is open to everyone free of charge. To get more information about the 211 program, click here.
Idaho Telephone Service Assistance Program (ISTAP) – Those who are struggling financially may need help paying for a phone. This program helps people with their phone bill in the state of Idaho. Those who have a low income may qualify for the program, which will provide people with a monthly discount on their telephone bill. Those approved may also be able to get a Lifeline and get benefits that cover a family member’s cell phone. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Salvation Army – This faith-based organization provides helpful programs for those who have a low income and are struggling financially. They can help with small bill payment assistance, free food, clothing, shelter, etc. Contact a location near you to see what type of services they provide and if they can help meet your needs. If they can’t directly help you then they may be able to refer you to a local program that can help. To find a location near you, click here.
Catholic Charities – This organization is similar to Salvation Army. You can contact a local branch to see if they can help meet your needs. They have locations around the state and they do not require you to be religious to get assistance. They help anyone in the community who needs it. To find a location that is near you, click here.
