Self Help Tools

Published and up-to-date as of 12/15/2020   Please note: this article is about the first stimulus payments under the CARES Act.

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.

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).

Up-to-date as of 12/15/2020 Is the Social Security Administration Open? Yes, but there have been changes because of COVID-19.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a program for low income families with children. It provides cash benefits each month, and may also help you pay high housing costs. TANF is funded by the federal government, but each state sets up a program with rules specific to that state. This article only applies to TANF in Maine. We have put… More

How does domestic violence affect children? Violence and trauma can have long-lasting effects on children who witness or experience violent events.

What to do if you get a notice of overpayment from DHHS.

Food Supplement rules limiting eligibility for some 18 - 50 year olds. Learn more to see if the rule applies to you.

Do you get a health care tax subsidy for health insurance you bought through the "federal marketplace." Learn about your duty to report certain financial changes.

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.