Last Updated on August 23, 2023 by Hannah Stevens
The state of Maryland is home to approximately 371,000 veterans. This state also has one the highest living costs. Some veterans residing in Maryland may have difficulty paying their bills or experience financial difficulties. This can lead to a stressful time for all involved. Fortunately, there are grants available for veterans in Maryland that can help people make ends meet.
These federal grants for veterans are given to help people who have low income, thus it is not expected to be repaid, unlike loans. The grants are basically gifts that help people get back on track and become self-sufficient. While most grants are granted on a temporary basis, a few are given long-term. A combination of short-term and long-term grants can aid the veterans to pay their bills.
Grants offered for veterans in Maryland
Food Supplement Program (FSP)
Maryland’s Food Supplement Program is essentially the same program as the national Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Each month, the program provides those who are eligible with a grant that can be used to buy food at the farmer’s market or grocery store. FSP is available to those who meet the low income requirements, and are willing to complete an interview. This program also provides emergency food assistance to those who are in immediate need. You can apply for FSP online or by mail. Click the link above to apply.
This is very similar to the SNAP grants for veterans in Massachusetts.
Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA)
This is the Maryland version of the national program known as Temporary Assistance For Needy Families (TANF). The program provides cash grants to those who are in need of assistance, and it can be used for different living expenses, like transportation, food, rent, clothing, and more. In order to qualify for this program, you must have a low income, be able to participate in work activities, comply with the substance abuse rules, and pay child support. Also, you must have a dependent child who is 18 years old or younger. Submit your application for TCA online or at the local social services office. Click the link above to apply.
Energy Assistance
The Office of Home Energy in Maryland offers an Energy Assistance program to veterans that will aid in paying heating bills. The program year begins in July through the following June, and you must reapply each year for the grant. You will need to show proof of residency, identification, social security card for each member of the household, and information about your household income to be eligible for the Energy Assistance grant. A copy of your latest energy bill is also required. You may apply online or by mail. Click the link above to apply.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
Veterans who require assistance paying rent or housing costs may be eligible for aid through HUD. These federal funded HUD programs can help you pay your rent, avoid foreclosure, make necessary home repairs, and find affordable housing. They may also be able to help locate public housing in their area. You must meet the low income requirements for low income, and be a citizen or a legal immigrant to qualify. To apply for HUD assistance in Maryland, you must first contact one of their counselors. They will assess your current situation and determine your housing needs. Click the link above to apply.
Lifeline Assistance
Veterans living in Maryland who cannot afford a phone may be eligible for the Lifeline Assistance program. This federally funded program provides a grant that helps people pay their monthly phone bill. Approved applicants will only pay $9.25 per month for their phone, whether it’s cellular or landline. Then, the monthly grant will cover the rest of the bill. Click the link above to apply.
This is similar to the Lifeline Assistance grants available for veterans in Maine.
Final Remark
It can be scary and stressful to not have enough money to pay your bills. The good news is that Maryland grants are available to help veterans who are in that kind of situation. These grants will help pay your bills and get you back on track to financial independence. You can apply for as many grants as you wish, there are no limits.
