No matter what state you live in, there are going to be people who experience financial hardships at some point. This may be due to the high inflation, lower wages, or other reasons. When faced with financial challenges it is important to know where to turn for help, so that basic needs to continue to be met. There are programs that offer money assistance for paying bills in New Mexico, which will help during difficult financial periods.
The programs that are in place in New Mexico are largely funded by the state and federal government offices. They have these programs in place to help ensure that people’s basic needs are being met, which will help reduce homelessness and hunger. The programs are open to those who have a low income and are legal residents of the state. There are some programs that will provide services to refugees.
Programs Offering Money Assistance for Paying Bills
Apply for as many of the programs below that you feel qualified for and that could help with your situation. There is no limit to how many you can get help from, and since it is not considered a loan, you do not have to ever worry about paying the funds back.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This agency is part of the federal government. They have offices in every state and aim to help people with their housing issues. The agency provides more housing assistance each year than any other. They will help those who qualify with paying rent, weatherization services, and paying for house repairs. They will also help home buyers who have fallen behind on their mortgage so they don’t get foreclosed. Additionally, they own housing units that they will allow people to live in, and they will help you find affordable housing options. To qualify for help through HUD, you have to be a legal resident of the state and have a low income. There is no limit to how long you can get help through HUD. To get more information and apply for help through HUD, click here.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – This program has been designed to help families who need money assistance for paying bills. To qualify for the program, you have to have at least one minor child you are caring for. You also have to be a legal resident of the state. Once you apply, it takes around 10 days to hear from them to set up an appointment. Within 30 days you should know if you will be approved for TANF. Those who are approved will receive money assistance each month that can be used for paying bills and living expenses. Most people who receive TANF are limited to how long they can receive it, and they many have to participate in work programs so they can become self sufficient. To get more information and apply, click here.
General Assistance – This program is similar to TANF, only it is open to individuals. You do not have to have any minor children to apply for it. The program will provide those who qualify with monthly money assistance that can be used for paying living expenses and bills. The program is open to those who are US citizens, legal non-citizens, and those who can provide their Social Security number. To get more information and apply, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Those who need help paying the heating or cooling bill can apply with this program. The program will help those who qualify to pay their energy bills. You will need to show your income for the last 30 days, unless you are disabled. They will also provide emergency assistance, such as for those who have received a disconnect notice. They will help with various forms of energy, including gas, electricity, propane, wood, etc. To get more information and apply, click here.
Sun Bucks – This program will provide money to help families who need extra funding to feed their kids during the summer months when kids are out of school. Those who qualify will receive a debit style card that has funds on it that can be used to purchase food for the children to eat over summer break. To get more information, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This program, which used to be called food stamps, provides those who qualify with money assistance to pay for food each month. Those who are approved will be given a card that they can use to pay at the grocery store. Each month, the government electronically adds funds to the card. To qualify, you have to be a citizen or legal non-citizen, meet the low income requirements, and meet the low asset guidelines. The amount you receive ach month is determined by how many dependents there are. There is no limit to how long you can get SNAP benefits. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Medicaid – This program, which is federally funded, will help pay for bills related to health care. Those who are approved for the program will be able to get help with bills related to going to the doctor, hospital, specialist, dentist, and more. To qualify, you have to show you have a low income and are a legal resident of the state. To get more information and apply, click here.
Salvation Army – This organization helps many people each year. They have locations around the state and will provide such things as free food, shelter, and clothing. They will also help with some bills, depending on the location. Contact the locations in your area to see if they provide help paying bills or if they can refer you to a place that does. To get more information and find a location near you, click here.
211 – This is a number by the United Way that you can call to find helpful local programs that will provide money assistance for paying bills. To get more information, click here.
