Self Help Tools

This classroom lays out your options for many different student loan debt situations. Is this classroom for you? You may use this classroom if:

Posted and up-to-date on 4/3/2020 Introduction On March 27th, emergency legislation called the CARES Act was signed into law in response to the COVID-19 public health crisis.The law includes some relief for borrowers with federal student loans that are held by the federal government.

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!

The world of student loans is becoming more complicated. So here is a brief overview of the basic lingo of student loans and repayment options.

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:

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!

Last Updated 9/14/2020 Is PTLA open? Can I still get help? To protect our clients and staff, all PTLA offices are closed to the public. If you have a current case, please reach out to our staff by e-mail or phone.