Assistance programs in Maine
Explore public benefits and assistance resources by the kind of help you need. Agencies decide eligibility and availability.
Find programs for your situationFood assistance
Maine SNAP (Food Supplement)
Maine SNAP provides monthly food benefits through EBT. Apply through My Maine Connection or the Office for Family Independence, then complete the required interview.
Maine WIC Nutrition Program
Maine WIC provides food benefits, nutrition support and breastfeeding help. Parents and caregivers can apply for eligible infants and children in their care.
Utility assistance
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP / LIHEAP)
Maine HEAP helps eligible homeowners and renters with heating costs. The 2026–27 season began August 3, 2026 and runs until funds are exhausted or May 29, 2027.
Weatherization Assistance Program (Maine)
Maine weatherization provides approved home efficiency improvements at no cost to eligible households. Local community action agencies arrange the assessment and work.
Health coverage
MaineCare (Maine Medicaid)
MaineCare is Maine’s Medicaid coverage. The Office for Family Independence decides eligibility, while the Office of MaineCare Services handles covered services and billing.
Cash and income support
General Assistance (Maine)
Maine General Assistance helps people who lack the income or resources to meet basic needs. Applications are handled by the local municipal office.
Maine Earned Income Tax Credit
Maine’s earned income credit is claimed through the state income tax return. State rules include options for some people who cannot claim the federal credit because of age or
Maine TANF (Cash Assistance)
Maine TANF provides cash assistance to eligible families while they work toward financial independence. Related services can help with training, education and employment barri
Unemployment Insurance (Maine Department of Labor)
Maine Unemployment Insurance provides temporary benefits to qualifying workers with lost work or reduced hours. ReEmployME handles claims and weekly certifications.
Additional support
211 Maine
211 Maine helps residents locate food, housing, heating, health and other community resources. Use a specialist conversation or the online directory to identify providers serv
Pine Tree Legal Assistance
Pine Tree Legal Assistance provides free civil legal help across Maine. Intake determines whether the organization can advise you or accept further work on the case.
Program names come from our existing directory. Funding and rules can change; confirm details with the administering agency before applying.