Did you know that $30 billion in federal benefits go unclaimed every year? Many families, seniors, and children miss out on crucial assistance simply because they don’t know they qualify. Today, we’re breaking down five major programs that could put money back in your pocket—and how to apply.
Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
If you lost Medicaid coverage recently or struggle to afford health insurance for your children, CHIP might be the solution.
What is CHIP?
CHIP provides low-cost or free health insurance for children. It covers doctor visits, dental care, prescriptions, hospital stays, and more.
Who Qualifies?
CHIP is designed for families who make too much for Medicaid but still can’t afford private insurance. Even if your Medicaid coverage was recently canceled, your child might still be eligible for CHIP.
How to Apply
Check your state’s CHIP or Medicaid website to apply. You can also visit your local health office for assistance.
Medicare Savings Programs (MSP)
Over 3 million eligible people are not enrolled in Medicare Savings Programs, leaving billions in benefits unclaimed.
What is an MSP?
Medicare Savings Programs help low-income seniors and people with disabilities pay for Medicare Part A and B premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.
How Much Can You Save?
On average, people enrolled in MSPs save $2,100 per year—that’s about $175 per month in healthcare costs.
Who Qualifies?
Even if you have modest savings, you may still qualify depending on your state. There are different levels of assistance, such as the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program, which covers Part B premiums and reduces out-of-pocket costs. Other programs like Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) and Qualifying Individual (QI) help with premium costs for those with slightly higher incomes.
How to Apply
Check your eligibility through your state’s Medicare office or online. You can also call the State Health Insurance Assistance Program at 877-839-2675 or visit shiphelp.org for assistance.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Many people with disabilities, seniors, and children qualify for SSI but never apply. Studies show that only half of eligible people receive benefits.
What is SSI?
SSI provides monthly financial assistance to help with essential living expenses for low-income seniors age 65 and older, adults with disabilities, and children with disabilities.
How Much Can You Get?
The benefit amount varies based on income, family size, and location. Some states offer an SSI supplement, which adds extra financial assistance, except in Arizona, Arkansas, Mississippi, North Dakota, Tennessee, West Virginia, and the Northern Mariana Islands.
How to Apply
Visit ssa.gov to apply online or call the Social Security Administration for assistance.
Need Help Applying for Disability Benefits?
Our sponsor, Injury Claims, can help. Click here and select “Get Help Applying for Disability Benefits” for expert assistance.
Free and Reduced-Price School Meals (NSLP)
Millions of children qualify for free or reduced-price school meals, but one in five eligible students do not use this benefit.
Why Aren’t Families Applying?
Many parents don’t realize they meet income requirements. Some families believe only unemployed people qualify, while others avoid applying due to stigma.
How to Apply
Check with your child’s school or district website to submit a confidential application.
SNAP for Seniors
Did you know 63 percent of eligible seniors aren’t using SNAP? That’s $6 billion in unclaimed food benefits every year.
Why Aren’t Seniors Using SNAP?
Many believe it’s only for families with children, while others assume their retirement income disqualifies them. Some find the application process confusing.
How Much Can You Get?
Even if you qualify for the minimum benefit of $23 per month, that’s still $276 per year. SNAP eligibility also unlocks extra discounts, like 50 percent off Amazon Prime, automatic qualification for Lifeline phone and internet discounts, and savings at farmers’ markets and local stores.
How to Apply
Seniors can use the NCA Benefits Checkup Tool at benefitscheckup.org to see if they qualify.
Relief Recap
If you or someone you know might qualify for these benefits, take a few minutes to check your eligibility. Every dollar counts, and these programs exist to help.