State-Only Programs
State-Only ProgramsUtility Shutoff Protection Laws: Which States Stop Winter Disconnections While You Wait for Help
If you're behind on your gas or electric bill, whether your utility company can legally cut you off often depends more on the state you live in than on how much you owe. Here's…
State-Only ProgramsState-Funded Cash Assistance for Legal Immigrants Barred from TANF: Which States Fill the Gap
Legal immigrants often face a five-year bar before they can get federal TANF cash aid. A handful of states step in with their own funded programs to cover that gap—here's where those programs exist…
State-Only ProgramsState Lifeline Phone and Internet Discounts: Which States Still Add Extra Help Now That the ACP Is Gone
The federal Affordable Connectivity Program ran out of money, but a handful of states kept their own phone and internet discount programs alive. Here's where that state-funded help still exists, what it covers, and…
State-Only ProgramsKinship Care Subsidies: Which States Pay Relatives Raising Someone Else’s Child
When a grandparent, aunt, or family friend steps in to raise a child outside the formal foster system, some states offer monthly cash support and others offer almost nothing. Here's how kinship care subsidies…
State-Only ProgramsState-Funded Food Assistance for Legal Immigrants Barred from Federal SNAP: Which States Fill the Gap
Federal SNAP rules leave many lawfully present immigrants without food benefits during their first years in the country. A handful of states have stepped in with their own funded programs to cover that gap—here's…
State-Only ProgramsState-Only Burial and Funeral Assistance Programs: Which States Still Help Cover Final Expenses
A handful of states run indigent burial or funeral assistance funds separate from federal aid. Here's how the payment caps, income tests, and application windows differ if you're trying to help a family cover…
State-Only ProgramsState Disability Insurance: The Five States That Pay You When You’re Too Sick to Work
Most states have nothing like it, but if you live in California, New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, or Hawaii, a short-term illness or injury can come with a paycheck. Here's how these state…
State-Only ProgramsUnemployment Benefits for Gig and Self-Employed Workers: How Eligibility Differs by State
Regular unemployment insurance was built for traditional employees, but states handle freelancers, rideshare drivers, and self-employed workers very differently. Here's how eligibility rules and special programs vary depending on where you file.
State-Only ProgramsState-Only Cash Assistance Programs That Don’t Exist Everywhere
A handful of states fund their own cash assistance programs with no federal counterpart, and losing one after a move can be a surprise.
State-Only ProgramsGeneral Assistance for Adults Without Children: Which States Offer It
General assistance fills a gap for adults who don't qualify for TANF or SSI, but only some states fund it.
State-Only ProgramsState Supplemental Payments to SSI Recipients: Which States Pay Extra
Some states add a supplemental payment on top of federal SSI, which can meaningfully change a recipient's monthly total.