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US Programs Pre-Check Guide

Answer a few simple questions to explore which US benefit programs may be worth checking for your household. Takes about 2 minutes.

⚠️ Important — please read before using this guide

This guide is for general information only. It does not confirm your eligibility for any benefit. It does not calculate your entitlement. It does not constitute benefits advice or regulated advice of any kind.

All results should be verified through official sources — including benefits.gov, IRS.gov/eitc, healthcare.gov or 211.org — before taking any action.

Tell us a little about your situation

All fields are required. Answers are used only to generate your results — nothing is stored or sent anywhere.

Employment status

Household type

Number of dependent children

Approximate household income (before tax)

Housing situation

Additional circumstances (tick all that apply)I care for someone for 35+ hours a weekI or someone in my household has a long-term health condition or disabilityMy circumstances have changed recently (income, housing, family, health)

US assistance programs — what to know

How do I know what benefits I can claim in the US?

The most reliable way to find out what US programs you may be eligible for is through the official sources: benefits.gov (federal programs), IRS.gov/eitc (Earned Income Tax Credit) and healthcare.gov (Medicaid/CHIP). For free local help, call or text 211.

What is SNAP / Medicaid and who can claim it?

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) helps low- and moderate-income Americans buy groceries. Working families can qualify if their income falls within SNAP thresholds. Eligibility depends on household size, gross income and net income after deductions. Apply through your state SNAP office or at benefits.gov.

What benefits are available for families with children?

US families with children may be eligible for: Child Tax Credit (up to $2,000 per child), CHIP (low-cost children's health insurance), free or reduced-price school meals, WIC nutrition support, Dependent Care FSA through your employer, and childcare tax credits. Check eligibility at benefits.gov and IRS.gov.

Can I claim benefits if I am working?

Yes. Many programs are available to working Americans on low to moderate incomes — including SNAP, Medicaid, CHIP, EITC and housing assistance. Working does not automatically disqualify you. Use benefits.gov or call 211 to check your specific situation.

How does the Child Tax Credit phase-out work?

The Child Tax Credit begins to phase out for higher-income Americans — check current IRS thresholds at IRS.gov as these are adjusted periodically. Pre-tax 401(k) or IRA contributions can reduce your adjusted gross income (AGI), which may affect eligibility for certain credits. A qualified tax preparer can help optimize your situation.

Important: This page is for general information and educational purposes only. It does not constitute benefits advice, legal advice or regulated advice of any kind. Benefit rules change and the information here may not reflect the most current position. Always verify your situation through official US government sources including benefits.gov, IRS.gov, healthcare.gov, or your state agency before taking any action.