Health & Public Benefits
COVID-19 Stimulus Checks & Public Benefits Eligibility in Maine
Posted and up-to-date on 4/29/2020
Introduction
Many people who will get a stimulus check under the CARES Act may also receive public benefits. You may be worried about whether getting a stimulus check will change your eligibility for public benefits.
Maine Public Benefits & COVID-19 FAQ
Posted and up-to-date on 12/15/2020
I need MaineCare, TANF, and/or SNAP (food stamps), where do I go to apply?
These services are run through the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
Social Security and COVID-19 FAQ
Up-to-date as of 12/15/2020
Is the Social Security Administration Open?
Yes, but there have been changes because of COVID-19.
How to Handle Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Overpayments
SSI benefits are the benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) that come on the 1st of the month. If SSA finds that you have gotten too much money in your SSI benefit, they will send you a Notice of Overpayment.
Healthcare Resources for Maine Children Who Have Experienced Violence
How does domestic violence affect children?
Violence and trauma can have long-lasting effects on children who witness or experience violent events.
Food Supplement Overpayments: Do I have to repay?
What to do if you get a notice of overpayment from DHHS.
Food Supplements and the 3 Month Time Limit: Can I Still Get Help?
Food Supplement rules limiting eligibility for some 18 - 50 year olds. Learn more to see if the rule applies to you.
SSI Eligibility for Immigrants
Immigrants who are not official U.S. citizens may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, if they meet certain qualifications. SSI can help people who are elderly or disabled, and have little or no income.
My Maine Connection: Online Benefits Application Tool
Maine DHHS is offering this online tool My Maine Connection as another way to apply for benefits. You may still apply in person, if you prefer, or over the phone (in programs that allow phone applications). But this is now the most streamlined way to apply.
Will Getting A Big Tax Refund Make Me Lose My Benefits?
This year, you won’t have to worry about losing your benefits if you get a big tax refund. Starting in 2011, any tax refunds you get will not affect most public benefits, or how much you get!
Under the law passed in December 2010: