The government does not offer free money or grants to people for personal needs. Learn how to report "free money" scams and find government benefits or loans to help with expenses.
Report scams offering “free money” from the government
Texts, email, ads, and websites promising “free money" from the government are often scams.
How to get financial assistance from the government
Federal assistance programs can provide financial help with living expenses or business costs. Use these free, official government resources to search for programs you might be eligible for:
- USAGov’s benefit finder – Answer a few questions and get a personalized list of benefits you may qualify for. Learn about benefit programs and how to apply.
- Grants.gov - Find funding opportunities for organizations that work with programs and projects funded by the government. Grants are usually not available for personal expenses or individual financial help.
Each program has its own eligibility rules, application process, and deadlines.
LAST UPDATED: August 22, 2024
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FAQs
The government doesn't telephone people or send unsolicited letters or emails to offer grants. If someone contacts you unexpectedly and offers you a grant, it's a scam. Don't provide your financial account numbers, Social Security numbers, or other personal information in response to such an offer.
Is the government giving away $9000? ›
The government does not offer free money or grants to people for personal needs.
How can I get free money from the US government? ›
Plus, get tips on how to avoid scams.
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. ...
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. ...
- Free or Low-Cost School Lunches. ...
- The Child and Adult Care Food Program. ...
- Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. ...
- Child Care and Development Fund. ...
- Down Payment Assistance Programs. ...
- Pell Grant.
Does the government call you to give you a grant? ›
Just because the caller says he's from the “Federal Grants Administration” doesn't mean that he is. There is no such government agency. Take a moment to check the USA.gov site or the blue pages in your telephone directory to bear out your hunch—or not. Take control of the calls you receive.
Is federal grant money real? ›
Federal grants are usually awarded for specific programs, research or projects – most often to local governments, organizations, institutions and universities. Beware of any individual who promises a government award that can be spent on paying down tuition or credit card debt, or home electronics and décor.
Does the US government give personal grants? ›
You may have heard of forms of government assistance like small business grants and subsidized healthcare. But did you know that the government offers personal grants for individuals, too? If you meet eligibility requirements and you need the money for one of a set of approved expenses, you could be in luck.
Who is eligible for the stimulus check in 2024? ›
To qualify, you: Cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else's U.S. tax return. Must have a valid Social Security number. Must meet income limits in your 2021 tax return: up to $75,000 for single filers, $112,500 for heads of households and $150,000 for joint filers.
Can I get free money from my bank? ›
Bank rewards for new customers
Many banks offer rewards to new customers who open an account. These rewards are completely free and can range from a few pounds to much more significant sums of money. Often, banks require that new customers make a minimum deposit or meet certain other requirements to receive the reward.
How to get free money asap? ›
Below are more ways to get free money right now.
- Unclaimed money. Have you ever thought you might have money waiting for you to claim? ...
- Survey sites. ...
- Free government assistance. ...
- 401(k) Matching. ...
- Credit card sign up bonus. ...
- Bank account sign up bonus. ...
- Investment account sign up bonus. ...
- Play games for free cash.
How do I ask for a grant money? ›
5 Steps on How to Ask for a Grant
- Find matching grant prospects. ...
- Visit the website of your targeted grantors from time to time. ...
- Call the person in charge to confirm your eligibility. ...
- Prepare a grant proposal or letter of intent. ...
- Follow the grantor's application process exactly.
Personal grants usually aren't taxable if you adhere to the conditions for receiving and using the money. For example, a grant for education is tax-free if you apply it to the intended expenses, such as tuition, books, and learning equipment.
Is the family support grant legit? ›
In conclusion, the Home Care and Family Support Grant is a legitimate program that provides critical financial assistance to eligible families caring for elderly or disabled relatives at home.
Do you have to pay back federal grants? ›
The federal government provides grants for students attending college or career school. Most types of grants, unlike loans, are sources of financial aid that generally do not have to be repaid.
How much is grant money? ›
The Child Support Grant increased by R20 for the 2024 year, which means that from 1 April 2024, the grant is R530 per month (or R780, with the additional top-up of R250). The SRD (Social Relief Distress) Grant increased by R20 for the 2024 year, which means that from 1 April 2024, the grant is R370 per month.
How much is the average federal grant? ›
Pell Grant Award Average by State
State | Total Recipients | Average Award per Recipient |
---|
Alaska | 10,150 | $4,583 |
Arizona | 241,734 | $4,779 |
Arkansas | 64,697 | $5,120 |
California | 938,931 | $5,018 |
47 more rowsJan 28, 2024
Is the government giving you money? ›
The government does not offer free money or grants to people for personal needs.
Does the government give out $9000 dollar grants in California? ›
Here's all you have to know about such scams:The US government is not in the business of handing out random grants. And they don't ever accept payment for them. You dealt with a scammer phishing for personal identifying information and as much money from you as you will let them steal to get your imaginary grant.
Is the CFDA program real? ›
The CFDA is a Government-wide compendium of Federal programs, projects, services, and activities that provide assistance or benefits to a variety of recipients. The CFDA summarizes financial and nonfinancial assistance programs administered by departments and agencies of the Federal Government.
Is the Arra grant real? ›
From 2009-2013, the federal American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA) legislation allocated nearly $7 billion for California's pre-Kindergarten through grade twelve public schools.