In a Nutshell

While Pennsylvania boasts a rich history, unique culinary delights, and scenic landscapes, many residents still face challenges in today’s economy. As of 2022, 12% of PA households earned below the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Rising living expenses and fluctuating employment have significantly impacted Pennsylvania families, leaving many struggling to make ends meet.

To address financial hardships, the Common Wealth of Pennsylvania offers a wide range of assistance programs to support its residents. From cash assistance to healthcare services and food aid, these initiatives provide crucial relief across the Keystone State.

Learn more about the financial assistance programs available in Pennsylvania to help you and your family navigate challenging times and build a more secure future.

Government Assistance Programs in Pennsylvania

Whether you're seeking help with healthcare costs, housing needs, or basic living expenses, a range of government assistance programs are available in Pennsylvania to ensure you and your family can get back on track.

Cash Assistance Programs

Pennsylvania's cash assistance programs provide temporary support for low-income individuals and families requiring immediate financial relief. The state employs the Pennsylvania Access Card, an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) system that allows recipients to conveniently access cash benefits for purchases at participating stores.

  • Also referred to as the Cash Assistance program
  • Financial support for low-income families, pregnant women, dependent children, or relatives who care for them  
  • Offers cash aid for up to 60 months (five years) total while recipients become financially independent
  • A one-time lump sum payment intended for short-term help instead of long-term ongoing TANF benefits
  • Eligible families can receive Diversion payments once per year, provided the payment covers their short-term needs and meets program requirements
  • Formerly known as Food Stamps
  • Monthly cash benefits for low-income households, helping them buy nutritious food at grocery stores and supermarkets
  • Helps families stretch their budget, boosting their purchasing power for healthy groceries

Pennsylvania Stimulus Checks

  • No Pennsylvania stimulus checks will be issued in 2024  
  • Residents may still claim state tax credits and rebate programs for financial relief 
  • Check eligibility for the Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit, which can help reduce the overall tax bill
  • Older adults and individuals with disabilities may also qualify for the tax/rent rebate program, providing additional financial assistance

Medical Assistance

Medical assistance programs in Pennsylvania offer crucial healthcare coverage to eligible individuals, ensuring access to a wide array of essential services.

  • Also known as Medical Assistance (MA)
  • Comprehensive health care services for eligible individuals
  • Coverage includes doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, and more
  • Free or low-cost health insurance for uninsured children under age 19 whose families do not qualify for Medicaid
  • Medical services range from routine check-ups and vaccinations to dental care
  • Full healthcare benefits for individuals undergoing treatment for breast or cervical cancer or pre-cancerous conditions

Pregnant and Single Mother Programs

Pennsylvania offers an array of programs and resources to support pregnant and single mothers, promoting the health and welfare of both moms and infants.

  • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for pregnant and breastfeeding women, postpartum mothers, and children under five years old
  • Provides nutrition education, breastfeeding assistance, health screenings, referrals, and healthy food options
  • Education, health, and social services to infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children
  • The program is available at no cost for low-income families, helping children develop the skills needed for school and life

Child Care Services

Through Pennsylvania’s child care programs, parents can access financial assistance and resources to ensure their children receive the quality care they require while balancing work and education.

  • Subsidized child care program that helps low-income households cover part of their child care costs
  • Families are responsible for a co-pay based on their income, ensuring affordable access to quality child care while they work or pursue education

Resource and Referral Services

  • Local Early Learning Resource Centers can assist families in finding suitable child care facilities that meet their needs
  • Parents can access information on providers’ certification statuses, complaint histories, and more through the Online Child Care Provider Search tool

Food Assistance

Pennsylvania food assistance programs support those households undergoing financial hurdles, helping them meet the nutritional needs of their children and family members.

  • Also known as Pennsylvania’s Summer EBT program
  • A new grocery benefits program that provides households a one-time payment of $120 for each eligible child, allowing families to buy food during school breaks
  • A federally-funded program that supplies USDA foods to low-income households through local organizations like food banks and soup kitchens

Assistance for Veterans

From educational programs to housing assistance, Pennsylvania offers a range of resources to support veterans and their families. The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) is dedicated to ensuring that veterans receive the benefits and services they’ve earned through their service.

Veterans benefits in PA include:

  • Veterans Temporary Assistance (VTA): Short-term financial aid to veterans or surviving spouses facing financial hardships, helping with essential needs like food and shelter
  • Burial Honors Program: Assists in arranging military burial honors and ensuring proper recognition of service 
  • Educational Gratuity Program: Financial assistance for children of honorably discharged veterans with service-connected disabilities or who died during wartime
  • Real Estate Tax Exemption: Tax relief for veterans who meet specific service-related criteria, alleviating some financial burdens for eligible homeowners
  • Veterans Homes: Long-term care homes where veterans can receive the support they need

Additionally, veterans can visit PA VETConnect, Pennsylvania's newest initiative that connects eligible veterans to thousands of resources tailored to their needs, regardless of the branch of service or military rank.

Elderly and Disabled Adult Programs

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA) provides comprehensive services to support older adults and individuals with disabilities, empowering them to maintain independence and live fulfilling lives. Essential programs and services include:

  • Home and Community-Based Services
  • Health and Wellness Support
  • Senior Community Centers
  • Medicare Enrollment Counseling
  • Elder Abuse Prevention

The Pennsylvania Link to Aging and Disability Resources (PA LINK) is another important resource that helps older adults and people with disabilities find information and connect to services in their community. PA LINK can assist with application guidance, independence planning, community living support, and more.

Utility Bill Assistance

Pennsylvania’s utility bill assistance programs are key in supporting low-income families, ensuring they can access essential heating services during challenging times.

  • Helps low-income families pay their heating bills, providing much-needed relief
  • One-time cash grants range from $200 to $1,000, with payments sent directly to the utility company or fuel provider

LIHEAP Crisis Program

  • Offers additional benefits for households experiencing heating crises, such as broken heating equipment, lack of fuel, or a termination notice for utility service has been received
  • Emergency assistance is available 24/7; contact your county assistance office for support

Assistance for Unemployment

Unemployment assistance programs support Pennsylvanians who are out of work due to circumstances beyond their control.

  • Temporary income support to those who have lost their job through no fault of their own or are working reduced hours
  • Applicants must meet specific criteria, including having sufficient qualifying wages and the ability to accept suitable work
  • A platform to explore a wide range of job opportunities within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, ideal for those seeking to start or advance their careers
  • Offers guidance on how to navigate the application process, so applicants are well-prepared to apply

Housing and Homelessness Assistance

Pennsylvania’s housing and homelessness assistance programs can assist individuals and families find and maintain stable housing. The Homeless Assistance Program (HAP) provides comprehensive resources and services to help those in need connect with critical support, including:

  • Case Management: Helps clients identify the underlying reasons for their homelessness, equipping them with essential skills such as budgeting, life skills, job preparation, and referrals
  • Rental Assistance: Offers assistance with rent, mortgage payments, security deposits, and utility bills to help families stay in their homes or secure more affordable housing options
  • Bridge Housing: Allows individuals to stay in a shared facility for up to 18 months, serving as a transitional step from homelessness to permanent housing
  • Emergency Shelter: Caters short-term shelter for homeless individuals, providing case management to help them secure permanent housing solutions

Transportation Assistance

  • The Medical Assistance Transportation Program (MATP) provides free non-emergency transportation for Pennsylvania residents on Medicaid to various healthcare services, including doctor's appointments and pharmacies
  • Pennsylvania offers transportation resources for seniors that include a Free Transit Program to ride local buses for free and a Shared Ride Program, which provides curb-to-curb services

Divorce and Other Legal Assistance

If you’re facing legal challenges but lack the resources for an attorney, several organizations are available to provide legal help in Pennsylvania:

  • PA Health Law Project (PHLP) offers free legal services and advocacy for low-income individuals, older adults, and people with disabilities who encounter difficulties accessing publicly funded healthcare coverage or services
  • PA Law Help is an online resource offering a comprehensive guide to legal information, court procedures, and available legal services throughout Pennsylvania

Nonprofit Assistance Programs in Pennsylvania

In the heart of The Keystone State, nonprofit organizations work tirelessly to address vital needs, offering assistance programs that ensure no Pennsylvanian faces financial challenges alone.

  • Serves PA residents through a network of more than 2,700 pantries, ensuring access to nutritious food across all counties
  • Advocates for policies to improve food access, addressing the root causes of hunger
  • Provides immediate shelter, food, and health services during disasters, ensuring basic needs are met swiftly and effectively
  • Permanent, subsidized housing and support services to empower families and individuals transitioning out of homelessness
  • Programs focus on employment, medical care, and education, equipping community members with the tools needed to thrive

How Do You Get Financial Help in Pennsylvania?

Although Pennsylvania offers a range of financial assistance programs, sometimes the burden of overwhelming debt—like credit card bills or unexpected medical expenses—requires additional support. This is where a trusted debt relief company like TurboDebt can make a difference.

TurboDebt provides effective Pennsylvania debt relief programs for residents looking for personalized assistance. In 2023 alone, we’ve helped thousands save an average of 54% on their total debt before fees.

Here’s why TurboDebt is an excellent choice for debt relief:

  • No upfront fees to get started
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  • No new loans or lines of credit as part of your debt relief program
  • Top-rated customer service, with over 17,000+ 5-star TurboDebt reviews from satisfied clients

Break free from the cycle of debt that keeps you from achieving your goals. Contact us today for a free consultation and find out in minutes if you qualify for our relief program. It’s time to take control of your financial future and start your journey toward lasting stability!