Ohio offers a slightly lower cost of living than most other states do. Even so, there are people who live there who will struggle financially at times. Whether it is due to unexpected bills, financial crisis, or emergencies arising, some people need additional help paying the bills. Rather than not have your needs met, it is important to get help for your family. The good news is that there are programs that offer short and long term money assistance for paying bills in Ohio.
Like in other states, Ohio has numerous programs that people can turn to that offer money assistance for paying bills. The programs are made possible through funding by the federal and state governments, along with some organizations that aim to help people in their communities. Most programs do require that you show your income and that you meet certain low income guidelines. While some programs do help refugees, most do require that you are a citizen or legal non-citizen.
Programs Offering Money Assistance for Paying Bills
The programs below will usually allow you to apply online, in person, and by mail. Some offer money assistance long term, while others offer it on a short term basis. Since the money assistance is not considered a loan, you will not have to worry about paying it back. There is no limit to the number of programs you can apply for or receive help from, so apply for all those you feel qualified for.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Those who need assistance paying their rent or who may be facing a foreclosure of the home they are buying may be able to get help through HUD. This federal agency is the largest provider of housing assistance in the country. They have offices in every state and help people pay their rent, avoid foreclosure, pay for house repairs, and they provide free weatherization services. They also own public housing, which will allow people to live in units they own. They can help you find affordable housing options in the area you live in. To get money assistance from HUD, you have to have a low income, and be a legal resident of the state. To get more information and apply for help, click here.
Ohio Works First – This program is the state’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). This program provides families with money assistance for paying bills and other living expenses. Those who are approved for the program will receive a monthly cash benefit, based off of how many dependents are in the home. They do also offer refugee cash assistance. To qualify for the programs, other than the refugee cash assistance, you have to be a citizen or legal non-citizen. Getting approval is also based on your income level, because it is for those who have a lower income. This program does limit how long you can receive help through it and some people may need to be in their work skills program. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Food Assistance Program – This is the same as the program known around the country as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). It used to be known as food stamps and many people still refer to it as that today. The program will help those who are qualified to purchase food each month. There is no limit to how long you can get help through this program. As long as you continue to meet the qualifications you can continue getting the money assistance. The funds you get each month, which are determined by how many dependents are in your family, will be electronically distributed on a debit-style card called the Ohio Direction Card. This program is for those who have a low income. To get more information and apply for food assistance, click here.
Medicaid – This program will provide money assistance to help pay for health care expenses and related bills. Those who are approved will be able to see the doctor, go to the hospital, and obtain prescription drugs, among other things, all while getting money assistance to pay for those medical bills. To qualify, 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 the Medicaid program. To get more information and apply for help, click here.
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) – If you have an energy bill that you are struggling to pay you may want to apply for help through HEAP. This program helps people by providing a one-time bill payment of one of your energy bills. If you are approved for the program the funds will be sent directly to the energy provider on your behalf. You can re-apply for the program each year that you need money assistance. To get help with your utility bills, you have to meet the low income guidelines. This program is open to those who are renters and home buyers. To get more information and apply, click here.
211 – By calling this number, the United Way will guide you toward finding local resources that may provide you with money assistance to pay bills. The service is free to use and open to everyone who needs assistance. They have a database of programs, often ones you won’t find online, that they can refer you to for assistance. To get more information, click here.
Salvation Army – This faith-based organization has a mission of helping those in need around the country. They have several offices in Ohio and will provide people in need with assistance programs. They offer free hot meals, bags of food, shelter, and more. They have a variety of programs to help meet the needs of those in the community who are struggling. You can contact the locations near you to see if they will help with paying bills. You do not have to be religious to get help from this organization. To get more information and find locations near you, click here.
