Oregon ranks as one of the more expensive states to call home in America. Many people choose to live there for the beauty that it has, but they may still struggle to make ends meet. Some people may not be able to find a job that pays a high enough salary, or they may run into unexpected bills and expenses at times. No matter what the reason, there are people in the state who experience financial challenges at times. During these times, it is a good idea to apply for programs that provide money assistance for paying bills in Oregon.
There are programs that will provide money assistance to pay bills on a short term basis, as long as those that will allow you to get the help long term. Most programs require that you show your income, so that they can confirm you earn a low wage, and they may look at your assets. Programs that provide such assistance typically only allow you to have a small amount of assets.
Programs Offering Money Assistance for Paying Bills
The federal and state government offices offer several programs that will help people during financially challenging times. The program will ensure that basic needs are being met during these times, including that people have a place to live and food to eat. The funds that you receive from these programs is not considered a loan, so you do not have to pay it back. Apply for all of the programs below that you feel qualified for.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – In an effort to help reduce homelessness, the federal government has created this agency. HUD is responsible for helping people around the state and country with their housing needs. They do everything from help people pay their rent to providing them with a government-owned unit to live in. They can help you find affordable housing options and help keep you from losing your home to foreclosure. They also provide people with weatherization services to help reduce their energy bills. Additionally, they will help cover the costs of some housing repair bills. To qualify for help through HUD, you have to be a citizen or legal non-citizen and you have to meet the low income guidelines. There is no limit to how long you can get money assistance from this agency as long as you meet the qualifications. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – This program will provide families that qualify with monthly money assistance. The cash that people receive can be used for paying bills and other living expenses, such as housing, transportation, food, clothing, etc. To be eligible for this federally funded program, you have to be a legal resident of the state of Oregon, have little or no income and assets, and have at least one minor child you are providing for, or be pregnant. Once you apply, if you are approved you will receive an EBT card that you use like a debit card. Each month, the government will add funds to the card. You can apply for the program online. To get more information and apply, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Those who need money assistance to purchase food may qualify for help through this program. Formerly, and still widely, known as food stamps, this program will provide people with a monthly cash benefit that can be used to pay for food. Those who are approved for the program will receive a debit-type card that the government will electronically add funds to each month. The card can then be used for paying for food at the grocery store or farmer’s market. Eligibility requirements include being a legal resident of the state and meeting the low income guidelines. Some people may be able to get SNAP benefits for a limited amount of time. Some non-citizens are eligible for receiving SNAP. To get more information and apply, click here.
Oregon Health Plan – This is the state’s Medicaid program. It provides money assistance for paying bills related to medical care. The program is open to families and individuals who have a low income. Those who are approved will be able to get help paying for doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, eye doctor appointments, and more. There is no limit to how long you can receive help through this program as long as you continue to meet the qualifications. To get more information and apply for the Oregon Health Plan, click here.
Utility Bill Payment Assistance – In the state of Oregon, there are two programs that provide money assistance to help pay for utility bills. One is the federally-funded program called Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), while the other is the state funded Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP). Both programs will provide help to those who have a low income. To qualify, you have to meet their low income guidelines. The program is open to renters and buyers. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Childcare Assistance & Family Support – This state program will help people with paying for childcare expenses. Those who qualify will get money assistance to help cover the costs of childcare. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
211 – This is a number offered by the organization called the United Way. You can call this number to tell them where you live and what type of money assistance you need. They will help find you programs in your area that can help with your specific situation. Their referral service is free and open to anyone in need. To get more information, click here.
Salvation Army – There are numerous Salvation Army locations in the state of Oregon. They are good resources for those who need money assistance and other helpful programs. Locate the ones near you to see if they provide money assistance for paying bills. To get more information and find locations in your area, click here.
