Self Help Tools

Published and up-to-date as of 5/27/2020 What is the stimulus check? As part of the $2.2 trillion CARES Act, the federal government will issue payments - by check or direct deposit - to millions of income-qualified Americans.

Up-to-date as of 7/30/2020 Is the Social Security Administration Open? Yes, but there have been changes because of COVID-19.

If you're more than $500 in debt on your electric bill, this program may be able to help you. You pay just your current monthly electric bill, each month and on time. For each month that you pay your current bill, your electric utility company will wipe out 1/12 of what you owe them on your back bill. Learn about how to enroll!

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.

Tax credits for people with low incomes who own their own homes or pay rent.

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:

LIHEAP funding continues to be lower than in previous years. This will mean that more households will be turning to local heating assistance programs after their LIHEAP money runs out.  Here is a summary of the programs we know about - followed by information about how to access local programs.  

How do I know if I can get a tax refund? In Maine, when you stay in some kinds of short term rentals, like a hotel or motel room, you pay a state sales tax.  If you stay more than 28 days you may be entitled to a refund of the tax you paid. First, you must have rented:

General assistance (called GA after this) is a program run by every town to help people who don't have enough money to pay their necessary expenses. You may be eligible if your basic living costs are more than the money you have or can earn.

It is not easy to balance a household budget when you have a low income. But you can supplement your income by claiming all of the benefits and supports you have the right to claim. Here is a checklist. Make sure you are not leaving money on the table!