Unemployed Michigan residents can receive help to get through tough times. Several programs are available from the state to assist with financial hardships. Available funding exists to help with housing and other basic needs. You can also request assistance from private Michigan organizations if you are ineligible for federal programs or need extra help.
Cash Assistance
The Michigan State Department of Human Services administers the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program. TANF provides cash assistance to families who are unemployed or underemployed. Recipients can use the monthly cash grants to pay bills or other expenses. To qualify, you cannot exceed the income guidelines determined by the state. At the time of publication, a household of three cannot have an annual income greater than $9,288. All adults over the age of 18 must participate in the work program. Although you do not necessarily have to find immediate employment, you must complete a weekly work equivalent, such as a job search or job training. Adults are required to work at least 30 hours. Single parents with children under six must work 20 hours. The program assists with childcare and transportation.
Housing Programs
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in Michigan runs several programs that may benefit you. If you are in danger of becoming homeless, the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Rehousing Program can award you financial assistance to cover a past-due mortgage or rent payment. If you cannot avoid foreclosure or eviction, the program can provide relocation funds to assist with a security deposit, first month's rent and utility deposit or connection fees. Unemployed Michigan homeowners may qualify for the Emergency Homeowners' Home Program. Participants can use an interest-free loan of up to $50,000 to pay arrears and stop a foreclosure. If you have not fallen behind on the mortgage yet, you can use the funds to pay the mortgage payment for up to two years while you actively seek employment.
Utility Bill Help
The statewide Low Income Housing Energy Assistance Program grants qualified households a one-time payment to avoid disconnection of services. You must earn less than 60 percent of the state median income based on household. At the time of publication, the income limit for a family of three is $36,586. Michigan also offers the State Emergency Relief program to help low income households suffering an emergency that can affect the health or safety of a household. The program can help cover repairs or pay a utility bill. The state offers a tax credit to low-income families to help with heating costs.
Basic Needs
Charities and churches can help with basic needs when a household runs out of options. Society of St. Vincent de Paul helps with a variety of services including food, clothing, housing and transportation. The charity also established a dental clinic to ensure uninsured Michigan residents receive adequate dental care. National charities, such as the Salvation Army also extend help to families who experience a hardship.
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