While the state of Utah has only a slightly higher cost of living than most other states, there are still many people who may not earn enough to pay all of their bills. Still others may experience unexpected expenses that arise, which puts a financial challenge on the family. The good news is that there are programs that offer money assistance for paying bills in Utah.
The federal and state governments, along with some organizations, provide an array of programs that people can turn to for money assistance. The funds that people receive through the programs can make a big difference and help keep families from becoming homeless or going hungry. The programs typically require that people show how much money they make and meet low income guidelines. Some require being a citizen or legal non-citizen to be approved, but there are programs that will provide refugee assistance.
Money Assistance Programs for Paying Bills
Applying for the programs below may provide the money assistance needed to ensure that your family’s basic needs are being met. There are no limits to how many programs you can apply for, and you will not have to ever pay the funds back, because it is not considered a loan.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – This program has been designed to help ensure that children’s basic needs are being provided for. Those who have at least one minor child in the home and earn a low income may qualify for TANF. Those who qualify for this federally-funded program will receive money assistance each month that can be used for paying bills and covering living expenses. The amount of money that is electronically given out each month is determined by how many dependents you have. This program is limited on how many months you can receive the money assistance, but they do give you enough time to improve your situation and become self sufficient. They also have a work program and will help people gain job skills. This program is open to those who are citizens or legal non-citizens, but they do offer some refugee grants. To get more information and apply, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Otherwise known as the food stamp program, those who need help purchasing food may qualify for SNAP. This program is open to everyone with a low income. Some non-citizens are also eligible for the program. Those who are approved will receive a debit-style card that the funds are electronically added to each month. The card can then be used as the payment source at the grocery store or farmer’s market. The amount you can receive each month is determined by the number of dependents in the family. Some people may need to participate in a work program to qualify. To get more information about the program and apply, click here.
Medicaid – Prescription drugs and medical expenses can be a huge burden to people and many people struggle to get them paid. This program, which is provided by the federal government, will help with paying for medical expenses and those related to health care. Those who are approved will money assistance for paying bills from the doctor, hospital, surgeon, specialist, dentist, and more. It will also help cover the costs of prescription medications. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements. You can apply online, but you will need to provide your birth certificate. To get more information and apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – The federal government has put this agency in charge of helping people in the country with their housing needs. They offer public housing, which are units they own and allow people to live in, as well as a voucher program, which will help you pay your rent. They can also help you find affordable housing options in your area. HUD also helps homebuyers who may be facing foreclosure. They will also help cover the cost of necessary home repairs and weatherization services, which will make the home more energy efficient, and reduce monthly energy bills. To qualify, you have to meet their low income guidelines. To get more information and apply, click here.
Home Energy Assistant Target Program (HEATP) – This program will help pay for your energy bill if you meet the qualifications. To get the money assistance for paying the energy bill you have to a low income, be the person responsible for paying the bill, have at least one adult in the home, and have at least one citizen or non-citizen in the home. You will have to show some documentation, such as your energy bill and proof of income. To get more information and apply for this program, click here.
211 – Anyone in need of money assistance for paying bills can call this number, provided by the United Way, to get referrals to programs that may be able to help. It is a free referral service and available around the state. They maintain a database of helpful programs that they can refer you to in your area that may be able to help with your particular situation. To get more information about the program, click here.
Salvation Army – Each year, many people around the country and in Utah, turn to this faith-based organization for assistance. They receive shelter, food, clothing, transportation vouchers, counseling, and more. Some locations also provide people in need with money assistance for paying bills. There are several locations in Utah, including in Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Washington. Contact the location near you to see if they provide the type of assistance you need or if they can refer you to a place that does. To get more information and find a location, click here.
Church of the Latter Day Saints – This is the most popular church denomination in Utah and they have many locations around the state. Contact one of them near you to inquire about what type of helpful services they offer or that they can refer you to. To get more information and find a location, click here.
