North Carolina Benefits


Food Stamps (SNAP)

North Carolina's Food and Nutritional Services (FNS) program is funded at the federal level by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and managed by the North Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS). Program eligibility is based on federally mandated income and resource levels such as your household income ranking in comparison to the set Federal Poverty Level (FPL).


LIHEAP

Just like in all the other states in America, the North Carolina Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) assists low income renters or homeowners with financial assistance to help heat or cool their homes by making direct payments to their gas or electric utility companies. North Carolina LIHEAP assistance is not a monthly benefit. Rather, it is a lump sum that is sent directly to a utility company or fuel dealer on behalf of the beneficiary/household. This is typically sent once per year, but may be sent in smaller amounts (in greater frequency) to allow the state to better manage its funds.


Medicaid

North Carolina Medicaid is a health care coverage program meant for low-income parents, children, seniors, and people with special needs residing in North Carolina. There are different types of coverage depending on people's different needs which may include income and resource limits. In North Carolina alone, one in five individuals receives Medicaid. This makes the budget for Medicaid second only to that of public education. This program is administered by the state of North Carolina and grants comprehensive and quality health care coverage to those who might not otherwise afford it.


North Carolina Health Choice (NCHC)

North Carolina Health Choice program (NCHC) supports families whose income level is above Medicaid limit but still cannot afford to raise insurance premiums for their children. The NCHC program administration and guidelines are unique to the state of North Carolina. Members are privileged to receive reduced health insurance cost coverage. The main objective of NCHC is to ensure that uninsured children who do not qualify for Medicaid are able to receive the medical care needed not only to treat illness or injury but also to promote general well being. Enhancing or maintaining good health in children is essential so that they may become effective both in school and work related activities.


SSDI

If you meet the required eligibility criteria, you can claim Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. These benefits provide financial support to North Carolina residents who are unable to work due to a qualifying disability.


The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)

North Carolina's TEFAP, backed by the USDA, provides foods such as rice, canned beans, and cheese. The program is operated through local agencies, including food banks and community pantries, to help residents in need.


Unemployment

Workers who have lost their job or their reduction hours have been reduced beyond their weekly entitlement can receive temporary financial assistance in North Carolina through North Carolina Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits. The amount of benefits one can receive depends on the amount of wages received in the base period. You can easily apply for UI benefits online after you become eligible. You will only receive benefits once you have filed a claim and you meet the eligibility criteria. Amount of benefits will be transferred through a debit card but you can also apply for direct deposit. To continue receiving benefits each week as long as you stay unemployed, you will need to file weekly claim. You can learn more about applying for UI benefits below.


Veterans Disability

North Carolina offers Veterans Disability Benefits to veterans who incurred injuries or developed a medical condition during their active military duty. In addition to disability benefits, North Carolina veterans can access Veterans Readiness and Employment, education and training programs, VetSuccess on Campus, and much more.


WAP

North Carolina Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides different services to help low-income households reduce their energy costs, which are otherwise high. North Carolina WAP services are free of charge.


WIC

WIC stands for Women, Infants, and Children. North Carolina WIC provides nutritious food, education, and referrals to some other programs to qualified WIC participants living in North Carolina. The program extends its benefits to children up to the age of five years and infants up to the age of one year.


Work First (TANF)

North Carolina’s Work First program focuses on short-term assistance and self-sufficiency. Families receive cash assistance for up to 24 months, with mandatory work and job training requirements. Health care and child care support are also provided.