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  • Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC): What You Need to Know
    As the affordable housing crisis deepens across the United States, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) remains a critical tool in financing the development and preservation of affordable rental housing. Whether you're a developer, investor, policymaker, or someone interested in affordable housing solutions, understanding how the LIHTC program works is essential. What is the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC)? Established by the Tax Reform Act of 1986, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit is a federal tax incentive administered by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to encourage the construction and rehabilitation of affordable rental housing for low- to moderate-income households. Each year, the IRS allocates tax credits to state housing agencies based on population. These agencies then distribute the credits to qualified affordable housing developers through a competitive application process. How Does LIHTC Work? The LIHTC program provides a dollar-for-dollar reduction in federal tax liability for investors in qualified affordable housing projects. There are two types

  • What is Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)?
    When life throws a curveball, financial support can make all the difference. That’s where Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) comes in—a federal assistance program designed to help low-income families achieve self-sufficiency. If you’re wondering what TANF is, how it works, and who qualifies, this guide breaks it all down. TANF is a federal assistance program administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). It was created in 1996 as part of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA), replacing the old Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program. TANF provides cash assistance and supportive services to eligible low-income families with children. The goal of TANF is not just to provide temporary financial support, but to promote job preparation, work, and marriage, reducing the dependency on government benefits. Key Objectives of TANF TANF is built on four main goals: Provide assistance to needy families so that children can be

  • Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Explained
    As energy costs continue to rise, staying warm in the winter and cool in the summer can become a financial burden for many families. That’s where the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) comes in—a vital federal program that helps low-income households manage their home energy bills, emergency energy situations, and energy-related repairs. Whether you’re struggling with heating costs or facing a utility shut-off notice, LIHEAP might be the solution you need. What is LIHEAP? The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The main goal of LIHEAP is to help families with low income stay safe and healthy by providing financial assistance for energy costs, including: Heating bills Cooling bills Home energy crises Weatherization and minor energy-related home repairs LIHEAP is especially important for vulnerable populations such as seniors, people with disabilities, and families with young children, who are more likely

  • Medicaid vs. Medicare: What's the Difference?
    When navigating the world of healthcare in the United States, two major government programs often come up: Medicaid and Medicare. While they may sound similar and are both essential in helping millions afford healthcare, they serve different purposes and populations. In this article, we’ll break down the difference between Medicaid and Medicare, their eligibility requirements, benefits, and how to determine which program may apply to you or a loved one. What is Medicare? Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for: People aged 65 or older Younger individuals with certain disabilities People with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Medicare Coverage Overview Medicare is divided into several parts: Medicare Part A – Hospital insurance: Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Medicare Part B – Medical insurance: Covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and some home health care. Medicare Part C – Medicare Advantage: An alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurance

  • Food Assistance Programs for Seniors: Meals on Wheels & More
    As the population ages, ensuring that older adults maintain access to nutritious meals becomes increasingly vital. Many seniors face food insecurity due to limited income, mobility issues, or health concerns. Thankfully, food assistance programs like Meals on Wheels and others are stepping in to help. Why Senior Nutrition Matters Proper nutrition is essential at every age, but it becomes even more critical for older adults. Seniors often deal with chronic illnesses, medication interactions, and a natural decrease in appetite. These factors can lead to malnutrition if not addressed properly. According to the National Council on Aging, approximately 7.3 million older adults in the U.S. are food insecure, meaning they lack reliable access to enough nutritious food Meals on Wheels: Delivering More Than Just Food Meals on Wheels is perhaps the most well-known food assistance program for seniors in the U.S. This program delivers nutritious, ready-to-eat meals directly to the homes of seniors who are

  • How SNAP Helps Reduce Food Insecurity in America
    In the United States, food insecurity remains a significant issue affecting millions of individuals and families. Despite efforts to combat hunger, many households still struggle to afford enough nutritious food. One of the most critical programs designed to alleviate food insecurity is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Originally known as food stamps, SNAP provides assistance to low-income individuals and families to help them purchase the food they need to maintain a healthy diet. This article will explore how SNAP helps reduce food insecurity in America, its impacts, and the challenges it faces. What is SNAP? SNAP is a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that offers financial assistance to low-income individuals and families for purchasing food. Beneficiaries receive an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card, which can be used like a debit card at authorized retail food stores. SNAP helps to ensure that eligible recipients can access sufficient

  • How to Apply for Public Assistance Benefits
    Applying for public assistance benefits in the United States involves several steps, which can vary depending on the specific program and your state of residence. Here's a general guide to help you navigate the application process: 1. Identify the Appropriate Assistance Programs Determine which public assistance programs align with your needs. Common programs include: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Provides food benefits to low-income individuals and families.​  Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): Offers financial assistance and support services to eligible families.​ Medicaid: Provides health coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families. Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Administered by the Social Security Administration, SSI provides monthly cash payments to individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. Eligibility is determined based on financial need and specific disability criteria.​ Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP): CHIP offers low-cost health coverage to children in families that earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford

  • Overview of Public Assistance Programs in the USA
    Public assistance programs in the United States are designed to support individuals and families facing financial hardships by providing essential resources such as food, healthcare, housing, and income support. These programs aim to alleviate poverty, promote self-sufficiency, and ensure a basic standard of living for vulnerable populations.​ Types of Public Assistance Programs Public assistance programs can be broadly categorized into two main types:​ Social Welfare Programs: These are means-tested programs that provide benefits to individuals and families based on low-income eligibility criteria. Social Insurance Programs: These programs offer benefits to individuals based on their prior contributions to the system, typically through payroll taxes. Examples include Social Security and Medicare. ​ Major Public Assistance Programs Several key public assistance programs operate at the federal level: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Formerly known as food stamps, SNAP provides eligible individuals and families with funds to purchase food, aiming to reduce food insecurity. ​ Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): TANF