Government money
Every year tens of billions in tax credits, food and utility assistance, phone and internet discounts, and property tax breaks go unclaimed by people who qualify. Applying is free and, for most programs, takes minutes.
- BenefitsGovernment money you probably qualify for and never claimed: the 10 programs worth checking in 10 minutesTens of billions in tax credits, food assistance, utility help, phone and internet discounts, and property tax breaks go unclaimed every year, mostly by working people who assume they earn too much. The ten programs with the biggest payouts, the real 2026 income limits (many reach $60,000–$80,000 for a family), and the one official screener that checks them all.
- BenefitsLifeline: $9.25 a month off your phone or internet (and how to get a free phone and plan) in 2026Lifeline is the federal program that pays part of your phone or internet bill if your income is under 135% of the poverty line or you're on SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or a few other programs. Many carriers turn the $9.25 into a free smartphone with unlimited talk, text, and data. Who qualifies, how to apply through the National Verifier in 15 minutes, the best providers, and the rules that got people cut off.
- BenefitsProperty tax exemptions you may not be claiming: homestead, senior, veteran, and disability (worth $200–$3,000 a year)Every state has property tax breaks that don't apply automatically: you must file once with the county assessor. Homestead exemptions for any owner-occupant, senior freezes and exemptions from 61–65+, veteran exemptions up to a full waiver for 100% disabled veterans, and disability exemptions. What each is worth, the deadlines, how to check whether you already have it, and how to appeal an over-assessment.
Government money and discounts you may qualify for
Every year, tens of billions of dollars in tax credits and assistance go unclaimed, mostly by working households that assume they earn too much. Income limits are often higher than people expect: many programs reach families earning $50,000 to $80,000.
- Tax credits: the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit pay only if you file a return, and you can claim missed credits for up to three prior years.
- Food, health, and energy: SNAP, WIC, Medicaid and CHIP, and LIHEAP heating and cooling assistance are applied for through your state, usually online.
- Phone and internet: the Lifeline program cuts $9.25 a month from a phone or internet bill and, with some carriers, provides a free phone and plan.
- Property taxes: homestead, senior, veteran, and disability exemptions can save hundreds or thousands a year, but in most places you must file once with your county.
Start here
The official USA.gov Benefit Finder checks federal and state programs in a few minutes, and dialing 2-1-1 connects you with local help. Applying is always free: anyone charging a fee to "get you benefits" is a scam. The guides below explain the biggest programs with current income limits.