SUPPORT MAY BE CLOSER THAN YOU THINK
Find help with food, rent and bills
We explain federal, state and local programs you may qualify for, then send you to the official application. It is 100% free.
- Free forever
- No account needed
- Private — no exact finances
What do you need help with?
Choose one to see programs you may qualify for.
Program guides for all 50 states
No fees, no sign-up and nothing to buy. You should never have to pay anyone to apply for public benefits. If a site asks for a fee to apply, it is not the official program.
- states covered
- 50
- program listings
- 546
- types of help
- 12
Browse by type of assistance
Food and groceries
Help buying groceries for families, seniors and students, in every state.
- SNAP food benefits
- WIC for parents and young children
- Free and reduced school meals
- Food banks and pantries
Housing and rent
Rental help, emergency shelter and help avoiding eviction.
See programsUtilities
Help with electric, heating, water and phone bills.
See programsHealth care
Low-cost coverage, clinics, prescriptions and mental health.
See programsCash help
Monthly benefits and emergency funds for eligible households.
See programs
Find application steps for each program
Program agencies handle applications and decide eligibility. This site shares program information and links to agency websites.
- Each guide identifies the agency that runs the program.
- Application links lead to agency websites or .gov pages.
- Each guide lists its last-reviewed date.
How it works
We do the searching across federal, state and local programs. You apply directly with the agency that runs each one.
Choose what you need help with
One click. No account and no Social Security number.
Review programs that may fit your situation
Guides cover eligibility rules, documents and application steps.
Apply through the program agency
Check the agency website for application steps and current requirements.
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of help can I find here?
Browse guides to food benefits, housing, utility bills, healthcare and other assistance. The directory covers 12 types of help, with programs organized by state.
Does Public Benefit Finder cost anything?
No. You can read our guides and use the finder for free, without creating an account. We do not charge to connect you with program information.
How do I find programs for my situation?
Use Find Help to choose your state and the support you need. ZIP code is optional. You can also browse by state or program. Guides explain application steps and link to the agency responsible; a finder result does not confirm eligibility.
Is this a government website?
No. Public Benefit Finder is an independent information site. We do not process applications or decide eligibility. Apply through the program agency and check its current requirements before submitting an application.
Facing a shutoff or eviction this week?
Call 211 today. Local agencies run emergency funds that can move within days, but they run out.