Benefits Eligibility Checker 2026
Enter your household information to screen for federal and state assistance programs you may qualify for.
Your Household Information
Programs You May Qualify For
7
3 likely · 4 possible
Federal Poverty Level
$26,710
Your Income as % of FPL
131%
Medicaid
Likely EligibleFree or low-cost health coverage for eligible individuals
Estimated benefit: Full health coverage
Key Requirements:
- Income ≤ 138% FPL ($36,860/year) in expansion states
- Income limits vary by state for non-expansion states
- Must be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant
CHIP
Likely EligibleHealth coverage for children in families with too much income for Medicaid
Estimated benefit: Low-cost health coverage for children
Key Requirements:
- Must have children under 19
- Income typically ≤ 200-300% FPL (varies by state)
- Children must be uninsured
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
Possibly EligibleTax credit for low-to-moderate income workers
Estimated benefit: Up to $4,213
Key Requirements:
- Must have earned income
- Income ≤ $49,084 (with 1 children)
- Must file a tax return to claim
- 1 qualifying child(ren)
Section 8 Housing Voucher
Possibly EligibleRental assistance for low-income families
Estimated benefit: Covers portion of rent (varies by area)
Key Requirements:
- Income ≤ 50% of area median income
- Must be a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant
- Long waitlists common in most areas
WIC
Possibly EligibleNutrition assistance for pregnant women, new mothers, and young children
Estimated benefit: Food packages + nutrition education
Key Requirements:
- Pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding women, or children under 5
- Income ≤ 185% FPL ($49,414/year)
- Nutritional risk assessment required
LIHEAP
Possibly EligibleAssistance with heating and cooling energy costs
Estimated benefit: $200-$1,000/year (varies by state)
Key Requirements:
- Income ≤ 150% FPL ($40,065/year)
- Must be responsible for home energy costs
- Seasonal application periods
ACA Marketplace Subsidies
Likely EligiblePremium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions for health insurance
Estimated benefit: Reduced health insurance premiums
Key Requirements:
- Income 100-400% FPL for premium tax credits
- Not eligible for Medicaid or employer coverage
- Must enroll through Healthcare.gov marketplace
Disclaimer
- This is a screening tool only — not a guarantee of eligibility.
- Actual eligibility depends on detailed state and local rules.
- Federal Poverty Level figures are projected for 2026.
- Contact your local benefits office or visit Benefits.gov for official determinations.
Federal Assistance Programs Overview
The U.S. government offers numerous assistance programs for individuals and families facing financial hardship. Eligibility for most programs is based on income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), household size, and other factors like age, disability status, and employment.
2026 Federal Poverty Level Guidelines
The Federal Poverty Level is updated annually and used as a baseline for determining eligibility for many programs. For 2026 (projected):
| Household Size | 100% FPL | 138% FPL (Medicaid) | 185% FPL (WIC) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $15,650 | $21,597 | $28,953 |
| 2 | $21,180 | $29,228 | $39,183 |
| 3 | $26,710 | $36,860 | $49,414 |
| 4 | $32,240 | $44,491 | $59,644 |
Key Programs Explained
SNAP (Food Stamps)
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides monthly food benefits via an EBT card. Gross income must be at or below 130% of FPL, and net income at or below 100% of FPL. Benefits range from about $291/month for an individual to over $1,751 for a family of 8.
Medicaid
Free or low-cost health coverage for low-income individuals. In states that expanded Medicaid under the ACA, adults with income up to 138% FPL are eligible. In non-expansion states, eligibility varies and may be more restrictive.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
A refundable tax credit for low-to-moderate income workers. The EITC can be worth up to $7,830 for families with 3+ children. You must file a tax return to claim it, even if you don't owe taxes.
Find all benefits you may qualify for on Benefits.gov→Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between SNAP and WIC?
SNAP provides general food assistance to low-income households. WIC is specifically for pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5, with a higher income limit (185% FPL) and provides specific food packages plus nutrition education.
What's the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?
Medicaid is for low-income individuals of any age. Medicare is for people 65 and older (or with certain disabilities) regardless of income. Some people qualify for both ("dual eligible").
Can I receive multiple benefits at the same time?
Yes. Many people receive SNAP, Medicaid, and other benefits simultaneously. Receiving one benefit may even make you categorically eligible for others. For example, SNAP recipients often automatically qualify for LIHEAP.
How do I apply for these programs?
Most programs accept applications through your state's health and human services agency. You can start at Benefits.gov or your state's Department of Social Services website. Many states also allow online applications.
Learn about government benefits on USA.gov→