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There may be times when felons have financial difficulties. Whether this happens because they are between jobs, there are medical issues, or something else has caused it, there is help. Throughout the country there are financial assistance programs for felons that will help to ensure basic needs are being met, while you work to improve your situation.
Most of the financial assistance programs for felons are offered through the federal government, with some also offered at the state and local level. The ones that are offered through the federal government are generally administered through the state social services departments. These programs provide grants, which do not have to be paid back. Felons who receive grants will not have the stress of having them to pay back, like they would have to if it they were loans.
Financial Assistance Programs for Felons
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – This program gives a monthly cash grant to felons who need financial assistance. The grant can be used on a wide variety of living expenses, including on such things as rent, utility bills, medication, food, and transportation. To qualify for this program, you must have at least one minor child you are providing care for. Additionally, you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal alien. Some states may require that you participate in a work program in order to receive the grant. To get more information or apply, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Felons who need help obtaining food may qualify for a grant from SNAP. This program will provide those who qualify with a monthly grant that can be used to purchase food. Once approved, you will receive an electronic debit card, where the funds are added each month. The card can then be used as a payment source at the farmers market and store to pay for food. To qualify for this program, you have to have a low income, and be a citizen or legal alien. To get more information about SNAP, click here.
Medicaid – This program will provide felons who qualify with free healthcare. Once approved, you will be able to get free doctor’s office visits, emergency care, substance abuse treatment, dental work, and prescription drugs. To qualify for Medicaid, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a legal citizen. This is essentially a health insurance for those who have a low income, and it’s paid for by the federal government. To learn more about Medicaid or apply, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program will help felons pay for utility bills. Felons who are qualified for the program can get one heating bill paid for each year, with the grant being given directly to the energy provider. You will have to re-apply for the program every year that you need the assistance. To qualify for a utility grant you have to have to meet the low income requirements. The program will also help with emergency services, such as if you have received a shutoff notice. You can also receive weatherization services through LIHEAP, which will help to reduce your monthly utility bills. To get more information or apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This financial assistance program will help felons with their housing needs. HUD will help felons find affordable housing, pay rent, avoid foreclosure, and help with weatherization. HUD also has a program called Section 8, where they offer public housing for a low fee. To receive financial assistance from HUD, you have to have a low income and be a legal citizen. To get more information, click here.
Federal Student Aid – Felons who would like to enroll in a trade program or go to college may be able to receive a grant from the federal government to cover the costs of the program. Felons can receive student aid grants, depending on what their offense was. The grants do not have to be paid back. To learn more about Federal Student Aid for felons, click here.
Lifeline – Felons who need help paying for their phone bill may qualify for assistance through the Lifeline program. Depending on the state you live in, you may be able to get the phone for free, or receive a discount off your monthly bill. To learn more about the Lifeline program, click here.
In addition to the above financial assistance programs for felons, contact the churches and non-profit organizations in your area. There are many that offer financial assistance programs for the community. Some offer help with providing hot meals and boxes of food, while others help with paying bills, housing issues, and more. Reaching out to all of these financial assistance programs for felons is a good way to ensure your basic needs are being met, while you get your get back on track.
