New Jersey is a state that has a higher cost of living than many other states. With the close proximity to New York City, there many people who live in the state and commute to work in the Big Apple. Those who need help can apply for programs that offer money assistance for paying bills in New Jersey.
Being able to get money assistance to pay bills can help ensure that people have their basic needs met. It can be the difference that keeps the heat going during the winter, and the rent paid throughout the year. The programs will help people who are experiencing financial challenges, whether they are short term or something that has been going on for a while.
Money Assistance Programs for Paying Bills
The programs below can help you pay your bills if you qualify for them. Each one has different qualifications, but most of them are similar. They require that you meet the low income requirements that they have and that you are a citizen or legal non-citizen. There are some programs that will also help refugees. Some programs provide long term assistance, while others limit how long you can get help through them. You will not have to pay the funds back, however, because it is not considered a loan.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Housing is one of the biggest financial challenges that people face. It is also one of the most important things to get paid, so that families have somewhere to live. HUD is a federal agency that will help people who qualify to pay for their rent. They can also help pay for housing repairs, provide weatherization services, and help homeowners avoid foreclosure. To qualify, you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. There is no limit on how long you can get help through HUD as long as you continue qualify. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
WorkFirst – This is the same program that is called in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) in other states. The program provides families with money assistance that can be used for paying bills and for living expenses. For TANF, you have to have at least one minor child that you are providing for. They do also offer General Assistance (GA), which is for those who do not have any children they are providing for. If you are approved for this program you are limited to using it for five years. The goal of the program, while they provide you with money assistance, is to help you become self sufficient. They will do this by providing job training and employment assistance. To get more information and apply, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Formerly called food stamps, many people still know the program by that name today. Families in need of help obtaining food may qualify for this program. SNAP will provide those who qualify with a something like a credit card that can be used each month to pay for their groceries at the store. The government electronically adds more funds to the card each month. To qualify, you have to have a low income. The amount that you receive each month is determined by your income and number of dependents in your home. There is no limit to how long you can receive help through SNAP. To get more information and apply for this program, click here.
NJ Family Care / Medicaid – This program will help people in the state who have a low income by providing money assistance for paying bills related to health care. Those who qualify will get help with bills related to going to the doctor, hospital, eye doctor, dentist, specialist, and more. They will also help pay for prescription drugs for those who qualify for the program. To qualify, you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. As long as you continue to meet those qualifications you can get the assistance. There is no limit to how long you can get help through the program. To get more information and apply, click here.
Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program will help with paying your utility bills. The program is open to those who have a low income. You can apply online for the program. They will provide help with paying your heating and cooling bills. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements and be the person responsible for paying the bill. If you are approved, the money assistance will be sent directly to the energy provider and your account will be credited with the payment. The award period each year runs from October 1 through September 30. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Salvation Army – Those who are looking for help with paying small bills may be able to get it from their local Salvation Army. Many locations will help people with bills that are smaller, such as those from utilities. They will also provide people with a range of other helpful services, including free food, clothing, and shelter services. To find a location near you, click here.
211 – To find money assistance programs near you, try calling this number. You can tell them where you live and what type of bills you need help paying. They can look through their database to find local programs that may be able to help. This number is provided through the organization called the United Way. They provide this referral service free of charge and it is available for anyone to use. To get more information about the program, click here.
Catholic Charities – This faith-based organization has many locations. They provide helpful programs for those in need, including helping with paying some bills. You do not have to be religious to get help from their organization. They also provide shelters, food, and clothing at their locations. To find a location near you, click here.
