There are many people who live in Massachusetts who have difficulty getting the bills paid each month. The cost of living is higher there than in many other states, and this may cause people to be financially challenged on a regular basis. It is important for people who are struggling to pay their bills to know there are options available that they can turn to for help.
Being able to get help paying for bills in Massachusetts can be the difference in being homeless and having a place to live, or having groceries and going hungry. The programs that have been put in place to help those who are struggling financially will aim to ensure all basic needs are being met.
Programs Offering Money Assistance for Paying Bills
Not knowing how you will pay your bills can be stressful, which is not good for your health. It is a good idea to contact the programs below to see if you qualify for assistance if you are struggling financially. There is no limit on how many programs you can apply for, so reach out to all those you feel qualified for. Plus, the help you receive is not considered a loan, so you will never have to pay it back.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Being able to pay for groceries each month is one bill that everyone has to ensure is covered. Being able to get money assistance through SNAP for this purpose will help bring a sense of relief. The program, which used to be called food stamps, will provide those who qualify with funds each month to pay for groceries. The amount that you receive each month is determined by how many dependents you have. To qualify for SNAP, you have to have a low income, and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. There is no limit to how long you can receive this program as long as you continue to meet the qualifications. They also offer free nutrition and education classes. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) – This program is a cash assistance program that is funded by the government. The program will provide those who qualify with money assistance each month. The money can then be used to pay for your bills and living expenses. The benefits that you receive if approved include cash, health insurance, education, training, employment opportunities, and case management. Their goal is to assist people who are struggling and help them become self sufficient. They also have an emergency assistance program that helps those who are elderly, disabled, or who have children. To get more information and apply for the programs, click here.
MassHealth – This program is similar to the one in other states called Medicaid. It is a program funded by the government that will help people pay their bills related to healthcare and medical expenses. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a legal resident of the state. There is no limit to how long you can get help through the MassHealth program as long as you continue to meet the qualifications for the program. To get more information and apply, click here.
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) – This is a free energy assistance program in the state of Massachusetts. Those who are approved for the program will get assistance paying for their energy bills. There are no application fees. The program is free to apply for and open to all those who have a low income and are residents of the state. To qualify, you have to meet the low income guidelines for your household size. The application window opens each year on October 1st. You can apply online or in person. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This agency is a part of the federal government. They have offices in each state in the country. Their mission is to help people with their housing needs, including helping to pay their rent. Whether you need money assistance to pay for rent or housing repairs, or you are struggling to find affordable housing in your area, they may be able to help. To qualify for the programs provided by HUD, you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. There is no limit to how long you can receive assistance through their programs. They also provide free weatherization programs, which will reduce your monthly energy bills, by making the home more energy efficient. To get more information and apply for help through HUD, click here.
211 – No matter what type of bill you may have that is related to basic living expenses, you can contact this program to see if they can refer you to a program in your area that can help. This free referral program is offered by the United Way. You can call them to tell them what type of assistance you need and they will look through their database to find local programs they can refer you to. To get more information about their service, click here.
Catholic Charities – With numerous locations available, this organization helps many people in need. They offer programs that will help with providing free food, clothing, shelter, and more. They may also provide money assistance for paying small bills at some of their locations. Contact the locations near you to see if they offer assistance paying bills or if they can refer you to local programs that do. To get more information and find a location near you, click here.
In addition to the programs listed above, be sure to contact your local churches to see if they can help. Churches are found across the state and they often have a mission of helping people in need in the community where they are located. They may be able to provide help with paying bills or provide you with a referral to who in your area can.
