One of the most important skills for living on your own is the ability to financially support yourself. The best way to do this is to get work experience, save money, and continue your education. This will increase your chances of getting higher paying jobs.

If you have a low income, the benefits programs listed here may help you. It is good to learn about the different programs because you may be eligible for some but not others. If no application procedure is listed here, apply at your county assistance office or visit www.compass.state.pa.us to see if you can apply online.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families ( TANF)—provides money for children, the adults who care for them, and pregnant women. It has many rules, including work requirements, and it has a five-year time limit.

General Assistance (GA)—provides money to individuals whose temporary or permanent disabilities prevent them from working. If you are between 18 and 20 years old and are still in high school, if you are in a residential drug treatment program, or are a victim of doemstic violence, you may be eligible.

Food Stamps—is a card with money on it to use for groceries

Medical Assistance—is insurance that covers physical and mental health care. You may be eligible if you are receiving TANF, GA, SSI, pregnant, a parent, disabled, a victim of domestic violence or require health-sustaining medications. For more information, go to www.dpw.state.pa.us/LowInc/MedAssistance.

Low Income Home and Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)—is a program to help if you need assistance paying your heating bills or are in danger of losing your utility services.

Child care subsidy—is a subsidy program to help cover child care costs. It is available only to those who meet the work or school requirements. For more information, call 1-877-4-PA-KIDS or check out www.dpw.state.pa.us/child/childcare/003670483.htm.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)—is a cash assistance benefit for disabled children and adults. You can call 1-800-772-1213 to begin an application or visit www.ssa.gov to find your local Social Security office. If you received SSI as a minor, you will need to apply at age 18 for what is called an Age 18 Redetermination. It is important to be prepared for the redetermination process. Talk to your lawyer, your caseworker and other helpful adults to help you prepare. To find a lawyer who can help you, call the American Bar Association at 202-662-1000.

Last updated: Summer 2007