📋 Application Coach

Before starting your application, gather these documents. Having them ready will make the process much faster.

• Photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
• Social Security cards for everyone in your household
• Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit letters, tax returns)
• Rent or mortgage statement
• Utility bills (electric, gas, water)

Most states let you apply online. Find your state's portal and create an account.

Apply online in your state:

After submitting your application, you'll be scheduled for an interview. Most states now do these by phone.

What to expect:

• Interview lasts 15-30 minutes
• They'll verify information from your application
• Have your documents handy to reference
• Be honest — mistakes happen, fraud is intentional

After your interview, you may need to submit additional verification. You usually have 10 days to provide documents.

Ways to submit:

• Upload through the online portal (fastest)
• Fax to the number they provide
• Mail copies (keep originals)
• Drop off at local DSHS office

Once approved, you'll receive an EBT card in the mail within 7-10 days. Benefits are loaded monthly.

Using your EBT card:

• Works like a debit card at most grocery stores
• Buy food items only (no alcohol, tobacco, hot foods)
• Check balance online, by phone, or on receipt
• Benefits load on same day each month

Medicaid eligibility is based on your income and household size. In most states, you qualify if your income is below 138% of the federal poverty level.

• Photo ID for all adults applying
• Social Security numbers for everyone
• Proof of citizenship (birth certificate or passport)
• Proof of income (pay stubs or tax return)
• Proof of Washington residency (utility bill, lease)

You can apply through Healthcare.gov, your state's Medicaid website, or by phone.

Apply online in your state:

Or call: 1-855-923-4633 (TTY: 1-855-627-9604)

Once approved, you'll need to choose a managed care plan. Each plan has different doctors and benefits.

• Check if your current doctor accepts the plan
• Look at which hospitals are covered
• Compare prescription drug coverage
• Consider extra benefits (vision, dental, transportation)

Your Medicaid card will arrive in the mail. You can start using your coverage right away.

• Find in-network doctors at your plan's website
• Schedule a wellness checkup
• Fill prescriptions at participating pharmacies
• No copays for most preventive services

To qualify for EITC, you must have earned income from a job or self-employment.

• W-2 forms from all employers
• 1099 forms for freelance/contract work
• Social Security cards for you and children
• Prior year tax return (if available)
• Bank account info for direct deposit

You claim the EITC when you file your federal tax return. You don't need to apply separately.

Free filing options:

Also try:

• VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) — free in-person help
• GetYourRefund.org — free online filing with support
• MyFreeTaxes.com — free H&R Block software

EITC refunds are released by mid-February if you file early. Direct deposit gets you money in 2-3 weeks.

You may qualify if you are:

• Pregnant
• Breastfeeding (up to 1 year postpartum)
• Postpartum (up to 6 months after birth)
• Parent/guardian of infant or child under 5

WIC requires an in-person appointment at a local clinic. Call to schedule.

Washington State WIC: 1-800-322-2588

Bring to your appointment:

• ID for you (and children if applying for them)
• Proof of income OR Medicaid/SNAP card
• Proof of address (utility bill, lease)
• Immunization records for children

At the appointment:

• Height and weight measurements
• Blood test for iron (finger prick)
• Nutrition education
• Receive your WIC card same day

WIC foods include:

• Milk, cheese, yogurt
• Eggs
• Whole grain bread and cereals
• Fruits and vegetables
• Peanut butter, beans
• Baby formula (if not breastfeeding)

• Photo ID for all adults
• Social Security numbers for everyone
• Proof of income (last 30 days)
• Current utility bill (in your name)
• Landlord info if utilities included in rent

LIHEAP is administered locally. Find your agency and apply.

Washington State:

• Pierce County: (253) 798-4500
• King County: (206) 461-3700
• Snohomish County: (425) 259-3188

Once approved, LIHEAP sends payment directly to your utility provider. You'll see a credit on your next bill.

CHIP covers children under 19 in families that earn too much for Medicaid but can't afford private insurance.

• Birth certificates for children
• Social Security numbers for children
• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax return)
• Proof of state residency
• Immigration status documents (if applicable)

CHIP uses the same application as Medicaid. The system automatically determines which program your children qualify for.

Or call: 1-800-318-2596 (24/7)

Apply online in your state:

Once approved, choose a health plan and your children can start using their coverage right away.

CHIP typically covers:

• Doctor visits and checkups
• Immunizations and shots
• Hospital care
• Dental and vision care
• Prescriptions
• Mental health services

You may qualify if you are:

• Age 65 or older, OR
• Blind or disabled (any age, including children)

AND you have:

You'll need:

• Social Security card and birth certificate
• Proof of citizenship or immigration status
• Bank statements (all accounts)
• Lease or mortgage documents
• Medical records from all doctors
• List of medications with dosages
• Names and addresses of all healthcare providers
• Work history for the past 15 years

Ways to apply:

Or:

• Call: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778)
• Visit your local Social Security office

Initial decisions take 3-6 months. If denied, DON'T GIVE UP.

Important:

• Most initial applications are denied (60-70%)
• You have 60 days to appeal a denial
• Many people win on appeal
• Get a disability attorney if denied

Once approved, you'll receive monthly payments. You may also get back pay from your application date.

SSI benefits include:

• Monthly cash payment (up to $943 in 2024)
• Automatic Medicaid enrollment in most states
• May qualify for SNAP automatically

Section 8 is for families earning less than 50% of the area median income (AMI). Priority goes to those under 30% AMI.

Section 8 has limited funding. Most areas have waitlists that are often closed. Check multiple housing authorities.

Washington State Housing Authorities:

• Tacoma Housing Authority: (253) 207-4400
• King County Housing Authority: (206) 574-1100
• Seattle Housing Authority: (206) 615-3300

Documents typically needed:

• Photo ID for all adults
• Social Security cards for everyone
• Birth certificates for children
• Proof of income (pay stubs, benefits letters)
• Bank statements
• Current lease (if renting)
• Proof of citizenship or eligible immigration status

Waitlists can be 1-5+ years. During this time:

• Keep your contact info updated (critical!)
• Respond promptly to any letters
• Report changes in income or family size
• Continue applying to other housing authorities

When your name comes up, you'll receive a voucher. Then you need to find a landlord who accepts Section 8.

• Voucher specifies your bedroom size
• You typically have 60-120 days to find housing
• Housing must pass inspection
• You pay ~30% of income; voucher pays the rest

Basic requirements:

• Have a child under 18 (or pregnant)
• Be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant
• Have very low or no income
• Have limited resources (under $1,000-6,000 depending on state)

• Photo ID for adults
• Social Security cards for everyone
• Birth certificates for children
• Proof of income (or lack thereof)
• Proof of address (utility bill, lease)
• Bank statements
• School enrollment for children (if applicable)

Apply through your state's benefits portal:

Or call: 1-877-501-2233

You'll have an interview and create an Individual Responsibility Plan (IRP) outlining your path to self-sufficiency.

The plan may include:

• Job search activities
• Education or training programs
• Community service hours
• Parenting classes
• Substance abuse treatment (if needed)

TANF cash is loaded to an EBT card monthly. You can withdraw cash at ATMs or use it for purchases.

Washington TANF amounts (2024):

Basic requirements:

• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Be enrolled in a degree/certificate program
• Demonstrate financial need
• Not have a bachelor's degree already

Before you can fill out the FAFSA, you need an FSA ID. This is your electronic signature.

You'll need:

• Your Social Security number
• Email address
• Phone number

The FAFSA opens October 1 each year. Apply as early as possible—some aid is first-come, first-served.

Have ready:

• Your (and parents') Social Security numbers
• Federal tax returns from 2 years ago
• W-2 forms and other income records
• Bank statements
• Records of investments
• List of schools you're considering

Within a few weeks, you'll receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) and financial aid offers from schools you listed.

Review your SAR for:

• Your Student Aid Index (SAI) number
• Any errors in your information
• Verification requests (may need more documents)

Accept your Pell Grant through your school's financial aid portal. The money goes directly to your school for tuition, fees, and housing.

If grant exceeds your costs:

• You get a refund check for the difference
• Use it for books, transportation, living expenses
• Set up direct deposit for faster refunds

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window:

You can enroll online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office.

Or call Social Security: 1-800-772-1213

You'll need:

• Your Social Security number
• Date of birth
• Current health insurance info (if any)
• Employment info (if still working)

This is where planning gets important. You have three main options:

If you have limited income, you may qualify for programs that help pay Medicare costs:

Medicare plans can change their costs, coverage, and drug formularies each year. Review your plan during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 - December 7).

Each year, check:

• Are your doctors still in-network?
• Are your medications still covered?
• Have premiums or copays increased?
• Are there better plans available?

You automatically qualify for Lifeline if you participate in any of these programs:

Income-based: If you don't participate in these programs, you may still qualify if your household income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

If qualifying through a program:

• Benefit award letter or statement showing your name and program

If qualifying through income:

• Prior year's tax return
• Current income statement from employer
• Social Security benefits statement

The National Verifier is the official system for checking Lifeline eligibility.

Once approved, you'll need to choose a Lifeline provider in your area. The discount will be applied to your monthly bill.

You can use Lifeline for:

• Phone service — cell phone or landline
• Internet service — home broadband
• Bundled service — phone + internet combo

Your children automatically qualify for FREE meals if your household:

If you don't auto-qualify, eligibility is based on household income. Use these 2024-2025 guidelines:

Get the application from your child's school or district website. You'll need:

• Names of all household members
• Income of each household member
• Last 4 digits of Social Security number (adult)
• Signature of adult household member

Return the completed application to your child's school office or submit online through your district's portal.

You'll receive an approval letter within 10 school days. Your children will be assigned a PIN or ID to use in the cafeteria.

Benefits include:

• Free or reduced-price breakfast
• Free or reduced-price lunch
• Snacks for after-school programs
• Summer meals at certain sites

Age Requirements:

• Head Start: Children ages 3-5 (before kindergarten)
• Early Head Start: Pregnant women and children birth to age 3

Income Requirement: Family income at or below the Federal Poverty Level

Head Start programs are run by local organizations (schools, nonprofits, community agencies). Find the one serving your area:

Documents Needed:

• Child's birth certificate
• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, benefit letters)
• Proof of address (utility bill, lease)
• Child's immunization records
• Health insurance information (if any)

Contact your local Head Start program to complete the application. Most programs require an in-person meeting.

What happens at enrollment:

• Complete application forms
• Discuss your family's needs
• Tour the facility
• Schedule health screenings for your child

Services Your Child Will Receive:

• Early education and school readiness
• Health screenings (dental, vision, hearing)
• Nutritious meals and snacks
• Family support services
• Disability services if needed

Your medical records are the most important part of your application. Gather:

• Names, addresses, phone numbers of all doctors
• Dates of all medical visits and hospitalizations
• Names of medications and dosages
• Lab work, MRIs, X-rays, and test results
• Mental health treatment records

For the past 15 years, document:

• Job titles and dates of employment
• Duties performed at each job
• Physical requirements (lifting, standing, etc.)
• Why you left each job
• Last day you were able to work

Also gather:

• W-2 forms or tax returns
• Social Security statement (create account at ssa.gov)

You can apply:

• Online at ssa.gov (recommended)
• By phone at 1-800-772-1213
• In person at your local Social Security office

About 65% of initial SSDI applications are denied. If denied, you have appeal options:

To qualify for unemployment benefits, you generally must:

• Lost your job through no fault of your own (laid off, company closed, hours reduced)
• Worked enough in the past (varies by state, usually 12-18 months)
• Earned enough wages (varies by state)
• Be able and available to work
• Actively looking for work

Before applying, gather:

• Social Security number
• Driver's license or state ID
• Complete work history for past 18 months
• Employer names, addresses, phone numbers
• Dates of employment and wages earned
• Reason for leaving each job
• Direct deposit information (for faster payment)

File your claim with your state's unemployment office. Apply as soon as you lose your job — there's usually a one-week waiting period before benefits begin.

To keep receiving benefits, you must certify (usually weekly or bi-weekly). You'll confirm:

• You're still unemployed or working reduced hours
• You're able and available to work
• You're actively searching for work
• Any income you earned that week

While receiving unemployment, take advantage of free resources:

You qualify if your household participates in:

• SNAP (Food Stamps)
• Medicaid
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
• Federal Public Housing Assistance
• WIC
• Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit
• Free/Reduced School Lunch (student)
• Federal Pell Grant (current year)
• Lifeline

Or if household income is at or below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Apply through the official ACP website. You'll need to provide proof of program participation or income.

Once approved, contact a participating internet provider in your area. The $30 discount will be applied to your monthly bill.

Many providers offer plans that are fully covered by ACP — meaning FREE internet!

You can combine ACP + Lifeline!

• ACP: $30/month internet discount
• Lifeline: $9.25/month phone/internet discount
• Total: $39.25/month in savings!

You automatically qualify if you receive:

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
• TANF (cash assistance)
• LIHEAP (utility assistance)

Or if your household income is at or below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Priority is given to:

• Elderly households (60+)
• Households with disabilities
• Families with children
• High energy users

Weatherization is administered by local Community Action Agencies. Contact yours to apply.

Documents you'll need:

• Proof of income (past 12 months)
• Utility bills
• Proof of homeownership or landlord permission
• ID for all household members

If approved, a trained auditor will visit your home to identify the most cost-effective improvements.

Common improvements include:

• Insulation (attic, walls, floors)
• Air sealing (cracks, gaps, leaks)
• Heating/cooling system repair or replacement
• Water heater replacement
• Energy-efficient windows and doors
• LED lighting

To qualify for Emergency Rental Assistance, you generally must:

• Income: Household income at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI)
• Hardship: Experienced financial hardship due to COVID-19 or other qualifying event
• Risk: At risk of homelessness or housing instability
• Renter: Must be a renter (not homeowner)

Rental assistance programs are run by states, counties, and cities. Find yours:

Also try:

• Call 211 for local resources
• Contact your local Community Action Agency
• Check with your landlord — they may know of programs

Documents typically required:

• Government-issued ID
• Lease agreement or proof of rental
• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, benefit letters)
• Past due rent notice or eviction notice (if applicable)
• Utility bills (if requesting utility assistance)
• Landlord's contact information and W-9

Apply through your local program. Processing times vary — some programs take 2-4 weeks.

Payment usually goes directly to:

• Your landlord (for rent)
• Your utility company (for utilities)

You typically qualify if:

• Your child is under 13 (or up to 19 with special needs)
• You're working, in job training, or in school
• Your income is below your state's limit (usually 85% of State Median Income)
• You're a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant

Each state runs its own child care assistance program. Find yours:

Common program names:

• Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
• Child Care Subsidy
• Working Connections Child Care
• Child Care Certificate Program

Documents you'll need:

• Birth certificates for your children
• Proof of identity (driver's license, ID)
• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax return)
• Proof of work or school enrollment
• Work schedule documentation
• Child care provider information

You can typically use your subsidy at:

• Licensed child care centers
• Licensed family child care homes
• Some license-exempt providers (relatives, friends)
• Before/after school programs

VA Healthcare Eligibility:

• Served 24+ months of active duty
• Discharged under honorable conditions
• Served in combat (qualifies for 5 years of care)

VA Disability Eligibility:

• Have a current physical or mental condition
• Served on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training
• Condition is connected to your service

Your DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge) is required for most VA benefits.

Don't have yours? Request a copy:

VA Healthcare covers:

• Primary care and preventive services
• Mental health services
• Prescriptions (low co-pays)
• Specialty care
• Emergency care

If you have conditions related to your military service, you may receive monthly tax-free payments.

2024 Compensation Rates (single veteran):

• 10% rating: $171.23/month
• 50% rating: $1,075.16/month
• 100% rating: $3,737.85/month

Other VA benefits to explore:

• GI Bill: Education and training benefits
• VA Home Loans: No down payment mortgages
• Vocational Rehab: Job training and placement
• Life Insurance: SGLI and VGLI
• Burial Benefits: Cemetery and memorial benefits

Before starting the FAFSA, create your FSA ID — your username and password for the system.

Who needs an FSA ID:

• The student (required)
• One parent (if student is dependent)

What you'll need:

• Social Security Number
• Federal tax returns (student and parent if dependent)
• W-2s and other income records
• Bank statements and investment records
• Records of untaxed income

The FAFSA opens October 1 each year for the following school year. Apply as early as possible!

Key Tips:

• List up to 10 schools you're considering
• Save your work frequently
• Both student and parent must sign with FSA IDs

Within 3-5 days, you'll receive your Student Aid Report (SAR). Schools will then send financial aid offers.

Types of aid you may receive:

• Pell Grant: Free money, no repayment (up to $7,395/year)
• Federal Work-Study: Part-time campus job
• Direct Subsidized Loans: Government pays interest while in school
• Direct Unsubsidized Loans: You pay all interest
• School grants/scholarships: Free money from the school

Your child qualifies if they:

• Are under age 17 at the end of the tax year
• Are your son, daughter, stepchild, foster child, sibling, or descendant
• Lived with you for more than half the year
• Are a U.S. citizen, national, or resident alien
• Have a valid Social Security number
• Did not provide more than half their own support

Credit Amount:

• Up to $2,000 per qualifying child
• Up to $1,700 is refundable (Additional Child Tax Credit)
• $500 for other dependents (age 17+)

Income Limits:

• Single: Full credit up to $200,000 income
• Married Filing Jointly: Full credit up to $400,000
• Credit phases out above these amounts

The Child Tax Credit is claimed when you file your federal tax return.

You'll need:

• Your child's Social Security number
• Your child's date of birth
• Proof of relationship (for audits)

Forms used:

• Form 1040 (main tax return)
• Schedule 8812 (Additional Child Tax Credit)

Don't forget EITC! If you have earned income, you may also qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit — up to $7,830 more!

Check the EITC guide in this app to see if you qualify.

VITA is for people who:

• Earn $64,000 or less per year
• Have disabilities
• Have limited English proficiency
• Are elderly (TCE program for 60+)

VITA sites are located at community centers, libraries, schools, and other public locations.

Also available:

• MyFreeTaxes.com: File online for free
• IRS Free File: Free software for income under $79,000
• GetYourRefund.org: Virtual VITA assistance

Bring to your appointment:

• Photo ID (for you and spouse)
• Social Security cards (all family members)
• All W-2s from employers
• 1099 forms (interest, dividends, self-employment)
• Last year's tax return (if available)
• Bank account info for direct deposit
• Childcare provider info (if claiming credit)
• Health insurance forms (1095-A, B, or C)

After filing:

• E-filed returns: Refund in 21 days or less
• Direct deposit is fastest
• Track your refund at IRS.gov/refunds

Generally eligible if:

• Age 60 or older
• Homebound or have difficulty preparing meals
• Spouse of eligible senior (any age)
• Disabled adult (some programs)

Meals on Wheels is operated by local organizations. Find yours:

Services may include:

• Hot meals delivered to your home
• Frozen meals for weekends
• Special diet accommodations
• Friendly visitor check-ins
• Pet food for seniors with pets

Call your local Meals on Wheels to enroll. They'll ask about:

• Your name and address
• Your age and living situation
• Any dietary restrictions or allergies
• Emergency contact information

Many programs can start delivering meals within a few days!

Most pharmaceutical companies offer Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) for people who can't afford medications.

Free prescription discount programs:

• GoodRx: Compare prices at local pharmacies
• RxSaver: Find lowest prices
• SingleCare: Free discount card
• Blink Health: Low prices + delivery

If you have Medicare: You may qualify for Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) which pays Part D premiums and lowers drug costs.

2024 Income Limits:

• Single: Under $22,590/year
• Married: Under $30,660/year

Money-saving tips:

• Ask your doctor about generic alternatives
• Request 90-day supplies (often cheaper per pill)
• Compare prices between pharmacies
• Ask about pill-splitting (some meds only)
• Check Costco pharmacy (no membership needed)
• Look into mail-order pharmacies

USDA programs are for rural areas. Check if your location qualifies:

USDA Rural Housing Programs:

• Single Family Housing Direct Loan: Low interest loans for low-income buyers
• Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan: 0% down mortgages through lenders
• Home Repair Loans & Grants: Fix up your existing home
• Mutual Self-Help Housing: Build your own home with others

USDA programs have income limits based on your area:

General guidelines:

• Direct Loans: Very low to low income (50-80% of AMI)
• Guaranteed Loans: Low to moderate income (up to 115% of AMI)
• Repair Grants: Very low income, age 62+

For Direct Loans: Apply through your local USDA Service Center

For Guaranteed Loans: Apply through a USDA-approved lender (many banks and mortgage companies)

Your child may qualify if they:

• Have a physical or mental condition that seriously limits activities
• Condition has lasted (or is expected to last) 12+ months, or result in death
• Family has limited income and resources
• Are under age 18

Qualifying conditions include:

• Autism spectrum disorders
• Cerebral palsy
• Down syndrome
• Severe ADHD
• Intellectual disabilities
• Serious mental health conditions
• Chronic illnesses

Collect all medical records:

• Names and addresses of all doctors and therapists
• Hospitals and clinics where child has been treated
• Medications and dosages
• Test results, evaluations, and assessments
• School records (IEP, 504 plan, evaluations)

You can apply:

• Online at ssa.gov (start the process)
• By phone: 1-800-772-1213
• In person at your local Social Security office

If denied, you have 60 days to appeal. The appeal process:

• Reconsideration: Different examiner reviews
• ALJ Hearing: Hearing before a judge
• Appeals Council: Final administrative review