Even with South Dakota having a lower cost of living than many other states, there are still some people who struggle to pay the bills. There are people who cannot find jobs that pay enough to make ends meet, and there are those who experience financial challenges due to other reasons. No matter what the reason, it is always helpful to know there are programs that will provide money assistance for paying bills in South Dakota.
Being able to turn to money assistance programs can make a world of difference. The programs can help ensure that a family’s basic needs are being met. The programs provide a safety net while the families work to better their situation and get through a financial crisis or difficult time. The federal and state governments, along with some organizations, have created the programs to help people in need.
Money Assistance Programs for Paying Bills
Some of the programs below will provide long term money assistance, while others limit how long you can receive the help. The programs will help ensure you have food, clothing, health care, housing, and more. You do not have to ever pay the funds back, because it is not considered a loan. You can apply for as many of the programs as you feel qualified for, because there is no limit in place.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Many people still know this program by its former name, food stamps. The program provides those who qualify with the money assistance to purchase food each month. Those who are approved will get a plastic card that the government electronically adds money to, and then the card can be used at the store or farmer’s market to pay for groceries. There is no limit to how long you can receive SNAP benefits. As long as you continue to qualify for the program you can keep getting the benefit. To qualify for SNAP, you have to have a low income, low assets, and everyone in the house had to provide their Social Security number. Some adults may have to participate in their work requirements or job training. The amount you receive each month is determined by how many dependents are in the home. To get more information and apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Getting money assistance for paying bills related to housing can be the difference that keeps people from being homeless. Those who need help paying for their housing or for house repairs can apply with HUD. This federal agency is in charge of providing people in the country with housing assistance and helping them find affordable housing options. Those who have a low income and are legal residents of the state may be able to get assistance through HUD. The agency will help pay for rent, house repairs, and provide weatherization services. They will also help home buyers with avoiding foreclosure. HUD also offers public housing, which are units that they own and allow people to live in. To get more information and apply, click here.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – This program provides money assistance to those who meet the qualifications. The program is offered by the federal government and does limit how long you can receive the help for. The program is open to families that have a low income and are legal residents of the state. You can only receive TANF for up to 60 months in a lifetime. The amount that you receive if you are approved for the program is determined by how many dependents you have. For example, a family of four would receive $775 per month. The money assistance they give people is to be used for paying bills and other living expenses. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Medicaid – This program is funded through the federal and state government. Those who are approved for the program will be able to get money assistance to pay for health care costs, including going to the doctor, hospital, specialist, and obtaining prescription drugs, among other expenses. There is no limit to how long you can get help through the program. To qualify, you have to be a legal resident of the state and meet the low income requirements, which are 138% of the Federal Poverty Line for a family of four. To get more information and apply, click here.
Energy and Weatherization Assistance – This program will provide help for those who need money assistance to pay their energy bills. It will also provide weatherization services, which will help make your home more energy efficient, thus reducing your monthly bills. To qualify, you have to earn a low income and be the person responsible for paying the bill. To get more information and apply, click here.
Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) – This program will provide money assistance for paying the water and wastewater bill. To qualify, you have to be low income. The program will pay your water bill once and then you can re-apply the next year. To get more information and apply, click here.
211 – The United Way has provided this number that people can call and they will find them local programs that can help with their situation. Give the number a call and let them know what type of money assistance you need and where you live and they will give you referrals. Their service is free to use and open to anyone who needs assistance. To get more information about the program, click here.
Catholic Charities – With locations in Rapid City, Sioux Falls, and Mitchell, this organization may be able to provide money assistance for paying bills. They are a faith-based organization that helps people in need in the communities where they are located. They will provide people with free food, clothing, and a variety of other helpful services. Some locations will provide money assistance for paying bills. To get more information and find a location near you, click here.
