Start Sorter
Answer one question. We'll show the official pages to open first. We never decide if you can get help. The agency does that.
I lost my job or my hours were cut
Each state runs its own unemployment program. Start here:
- Find your state's unemployment filing page (CareerOneStop, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor). Checked Nov 9, 2026.
- How unemployment works, from USAGov. Checked Nov 9, 2026.
I'm having trouble paying for food
SNAP goes through your state's local office. Start here:
- Find your state's SNAP office and form (USDA). Checked Nov 9, 2026.
I can't keep up with a heating or cooling bill
LIHEAP is handled by each state's office. Start here:
- Help with energy bills, from USAGov. Checked Nov 9, 2026.
- About LIHEAP, from the program's federal office. Checked Nov 9, 2026.
I have a disability and can't work like I used to
Social Security runs SSDI and SSI. Start here:
- Compare SSDI and SSI on USAGov. Checked Nov 9, 2026.
I'm getting close to Medicare age or need to enroll
Start here:
- How and when to apply for Medicare, from USAGov. Checked Nov 9, 2026.
I'm not sure, or it's something else
Your state's social service agency is a good first stop. Start here:
- Find your state social service agency (USAGov). Checked Nov 9, 2026.
- Browse all government benefit topics on USAGov. Checked Nov 9, 2026.
Under every result
If someone asks you to pay to get a benefit, stop and check first. See where to report a scam (USAGov).
A word about this sorter
This sorter only points to official pages. Think of it as directions, not advice. It has no say over whether you get help. Links can change; each card shows when we last checked it.