North Carolina Assistance Programs – Financial Help with Bills

North Carolina Assistance Programs.  The federal government works with local charities, churches, and community groups to bring financial aid to disadvantaged residents. According to Statist.com, the poverty rate in North Carolina has dropped from 18% in 2012 to 12.8% in 2022.  However, North Carolina has the 15th highest poverty rate in the United States.

If you live in Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, Durham, or anywhere in North Carolina, public financial assistance programs provide financial help with bills.  These organizations help with rent, medical and utilities, food, clothing, and more.  Salaries in North Carolina are growing, but the median family income in North Carolina is $54,602 lower than the U.S. average.  With inflation over 9%, far too many residents are struggling to make a living that covers all their needs.

North Carolina Assistance Programs

1. Housing Assistance Programs

With rent skyrocketing, many with jobs. Every city has rent housing programs that help with a down payment for new apartments and financial assistance with rent.   The Housing Authority partners with privately-owned housing to provide subsidies for those needing help paying for rent.  

The Housing Authorities also screen applicants to ensure only qualified people get these benefits. Once a tenant is approved, the Housing Authority signs the lease and pays the difference between what the tenant pays and the apartment’s market rate—types of Housing Assistance Programs. 

• Public Housing
• Section 8 – Housing Choice Vouchers.  The waiting list is now open.
• Tax Credit Apartments – Income Restricted Communities

2. Lifeline Program Free Phone Assistance

If you are unemployed, underemployed, those with disabilities, or older adults, you may qualify for Lifeline assistance through an FCC-funded cell phone program.  Lifeline provides free or discounted landlines, cell phones, and phone service for each household—one phone per family with yearly recertification.  The free government cell phone program can be found in every state and territory in the US.

3. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

TANF helps indigent families with temporary financial assistance (2 years) to care for their families.  This program is facilitated through Work First.  If you are eligible for TANF, you also qualify for Childcare Assistance, WIC, SNAP, Medicaid, and educational programs available in your city.   919-334-1224

Duke Energy Low Income Programs – Help with Electric Bills

4. North Carolina Weatherization Program

The Home Weatherization Assistance Program is a federal program that helps low-income households make mandatory upgrades to make a residence more energy efficient.  It also sends each qualified participant a subsidy financial help each year they qualify.  This money should pay utility bills, but no restrictions are placed on how you spend the money.  You can apply through the Department of Social Services, local charities, or community outreach organizations.

5. Child Care Assistance

North Carolina’s Division of Child Development provides childcare subsidies to low-income families that qualify financially.  State and local governments fund this program.  Childcare vouchers pay part or all of your childcare costs.  Call 800-859-0829.

6. Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

WIC is a state-run nutritional supplement program that helps low-income mothers provide nutritional meals for themselves and their children.  They provide vouchers for baby food, formula, and healthy food for expecting mothers.   If you are pregnant or have children under five and qualify financially, you can receive help.

7. North Carolina Home Protection Program and Loan Fund

If you are a homeowner and have received a 45-day pre-foreclosure notice, you may qualify for help to stay in your home.   You may be eligible for financial aid up to a $24,000 15-year loan towards your mortgage.  This assistance is not credit-based. Call the NC Housing Finance Agency if you have received a foreclosure notice. 888-442-8188.

8. Medicaid for Infants and Children (MIC)

You and your children are eligible for medical grants that pay for you to see a doctor, dental and qualified medication.  Provides medical coverage for children under the age of 19.

9. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a good subsidy program that helps families purchase nutritional food for their families.  Eligibility is based on gross family income. A household may include any group living under one roof and preparing and eating meals together. You may also receive aid if you are low-income older adults or those with disabilities.

10. Emergency Cash Assistance NC

Government and State Assistance programs offer financial emergency assistance to those who qualify financially.  You may be eligible for this type of financial help when you have a short or long-term disability, are unemployed, or are working but are considered low-income.  You can receive help with past-due rent, utilities, and emergency SNAP benefits.  919-855-4800. 

11. North Carolina Community Action Groups (CAA)

Every community has one or more community action agencies that work with the government to distribute finances and services to disadvantaged families and individuals. Usually, single women with children are the priority, but all who qualify can get help if finances are available.

These groups were first established to combat poverty, keep families stable, and stop evictions and the loss of necessary living resources.

There are  CAAs all across 50 U.S. and Puerto Rico. The CA network helps millions of families and individuals each year.  Community action groups work with other governments, community organizations, churches, and charities they can refer to if their monies run out.   Call 1-800-662-7030.   CAA Website 

Churches and Muslim Community Faith-Based Organizations

Churches have been helping to support struggling communities for hundreds of years.  Today, they are better equipped to help with financial emergency assistance.  Faith-based ministries provide many of the same services that government agencies, however, on a smaller level. 

Churches work with state and local governments to screen applicants and distribute funding to those eligible for help.  They help on a smaller level, and because of this, you may have to go to two or more agencies to get all the financial help you need.

1. The Salvation Army

This faith-based organization has helped underserved communities for many decades.  They provide help with food, clothing, home supplies, rent, the Toys for Toys Christmas program, hot meals, and much more.

2. Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities can be found in almost every city.  This non-profit, faith-based organization helps with rent, utility payments, housing, food, disaster relief, and immigration and refugee services, to name a few. 

3. Jewish Federation of North America

This organization gives low-rate loans for businesses, healthcare bills, children with special needs, student loans, and even loans for in vitro fertilization.

4. St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church

St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church aids the community by providing essential support services, including food pantries, emergency financial assistance, and resources for the homeless and less fortunate.

5. The Islamic Association of Raleigh (IAR) and the Islamic Center of Cary (Cary Masjid)

These two mosques significantly contribute to their communities. The IAR offers a variety of services, including financial aid, food pantry services, refugee and needy support services, family support, and referrals for issues related to domestic violence and abuse.  They also perform wedding and burial services according to the Muslim faith.

North Carolina Aging and Adult Services

This organization helps older adults over 55 and individuals with disabilities maintain independence through services, opportunities, and community-based support systems and protections like food, health insurance, and medications.  Find out more here.

• In-home assistance
• Caseworkers
• Home meal delivery
• Job assistance and training
• Assistance with legal issues
• Health benefits and claims assistance
• Pick up and delivery transportation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

1. What types of government assistance programs are available in North Carolina?
2. North Carolina offers a variety of government programs, including Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, housing, and energy assistance.
3. Who is eligible for these government aid programs?
4. Eligibility criteria vary depending on the program. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and specific needs. To determine if you qualify for help, use online screening tools or contact the relevant agencies directly.
5. How can I apply for Help from the Government in North Carolina?
6. You can apply for government programs through the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) in North Carolina. You can apply online through the NC FAST website by phone or visiting a local DHHS office.
7. What documentation will I need to apply for help?
8. Proof of identity, income, residency, and other specific documents depending on the program. It’s crucial to check with the program you’re applying for to ensure you have all the necessary paperwork.
9. How long does it take to process an application for government aid?
10. Processing times vary, but agencies typically aim to process applications quickly. If you file for expedited services, you may receive a determination within a month or less. In that case, you can receive help within 7 – 10 days.
11. What do I do if my application is denied?
12. If the program denies your application, you can appeal the decision. Instructions on how to appeal are in your denial letter. Act quickly if you believe the decision needs to be corrected.

In Conclusion

North Carolina Assistance Programs serve as vital lifelines, providing critical support to individuals and families in need throughout the state. These programs encompass various services, including healthcare, housing, nutrition, education, and more. As we’ve explored the various assistance programs available, it becomes evident that North Carolina is committed to improving the well-being of its residents and fostering a stronger, more inclusive community. Whether seeking help or looking to contribute to these initiatives, understanding and supporting these programs is essential to building a brighter and more prosperous future for all North Carolinians.