Financial Assistance in Guam

If you are a resident of Guam, or are planning to move there, there are a few things to know about financial assistance in Guam. Like the continental United States, Guam offers a range of financial assistance options, but you might be surprised to find that you are eligible, despite having a higher income. Read on for more information about financial assistance in Guam!

Financial Assistance in Guam: Prugråman Salåppe’ 3

Prugråman Salåppe’ 3 is a financial assistance program in Guam, offering a one-time payment of $500 for a family or individual who is in need. To be eligible for a $500 payment, one must be a resident of the island of Guam for at least six months, and must have an income that does not exceed the income limit per household size. 

You might be surprised to find that an individual whose gross annual income is as much as $46,890 per year could still be eligible for a $500 payment. For a two person household, the income limit is $63,180. For a three person household, the income limit is $79,470. So, why is the income limit so high for this financial assistance program? Well, the cost of living in Guam is much higher than most U.S. states and territories. 

To apply for a $500 payment, you will need to submit your Social Security number, proof of earned income (e.g. two most recent check stubs, current Employment Verification, 1040 Form), and proof of unearned income such as VA benefits, Social Security, or retirement supplements. Applications can be submitted online.  

Financial Assistance in Guam: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Financial assistance in Guam is also available to those who are struggling to meet their nutritional needs. Just as in all of the other 50 states and territories, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is available in Guam. However, as with the program described in the above section, the income limits are higher than in other U.S. states and territories. Further, the maximum allotment of SNAP dollars is somewhat higher as well. 

For example, one person living in a rural area in Guam can receive up to $500 in SNAP benefits. The income limit for one person to be eligible for SNAP benefits is $16,752 in gross annual income. 

To apply for SNAP benefits in Guam, you must fill out an application and contact your local public health office in Dededo, Tamuning, or Inarajan. While it appears that applications can be emailed, you will also need to be interviewed. Applicants must bring a range of documents to their interview appointment, such as their identification card, proof of earned and unearned income, and verification of school enrollment for dependents. A full list of required documents is included on the application form. Please note that the same application can be used to assess eligibility for Medicaid, welfare, and the Medically Indigent Program. 

Financial Assistance in Guam: Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families is another form of financial assistance in Guam that can be helpful for families who have lower income. TANF is intended for parents with children under the age of 18, pregnant women, and children 18 and under who serve as heads of household. In addition to these requirements, TANF recipients must be a resident of Guam, be a U.S. citizen or legal resident, and have a low or very low income. In other words, TANF is not available to individuals or couples without children. 

To apply for TANF benefits in Guam, you must fill out an application and contact your local public health office in Dededo, Tamuning, or Inarajan. While it appears applications can be emailed, you will also need to be interviewed. Applicants must bring a range of documents to their TANF interview appointment, such as their identification card, proof of earned and unearned income, verification of school enrollment for dependents. A full list of required documents is included on the application form. This application form can also be used to apply for SNAP, MIP, and Medicaid. 

While the TANF program provides some financial assistance in Guam, the amount of money that families receive is not typically enough to live on without any other source of income. Further, TANF rules also indicate that recipients must work a certain number of hours per week or participate in job training programs if they are unemployed. Check out Low Income Relief’s articles on TANF for more information. 

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Catherine Hall

Catherine Hall, LMSW is a therapist at a small group practice in New York City. She earned her master of social work degree at New York University.