Emergency help: 211 and local aid
If you need money for a specific bill, there may be help that is not a loan. Start here before you borrow.
Dial 211
211 connects you with help from local organizations. You can simply dial 211 to talk to someone, and calls are confidential.[1] The FCC designated 211 in 2000 as the three-digit number for information and referrals to social services and other assistance. The service is run by more than 200 local organizations, including United Ways, Goodwill, Community Action Partnerships and local crisis centers.[2]
Utility and energy bills
The federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps with the costs of home energy bills, energy crises, weatherization and minor energy-related home repairs.[3] To find where to apply, the program's page points to its "Energyhelp.us" search tool and the National Energy Assistance Referral line, 1-866-674-6327.[3] LIHEAP does not charge a fee for receiving a benefit; HHS says to report any message offering a LIHEAP grant or asking for a fee to its fraud hotline.[3]
USA.gov lists government help with energy bills, and the Lifeline discount on phone and internet service.[4]
Other government help
USA.gov's benefit finder lets you explore government benefits and financial help, including food, health, housing and utilities, and jobs and unemployment, and explains how to apply.[5]
Watch for scams
Government agencies will never call, email, text or message you on social media to ask for money or personal information. Do not pay anyone who says they are with the government by wire, gift card, cryptocurrency or payment app.[6]
Sources
Each source was checked on 2026-10-05. Rules and amounts change; the official page is the one to rely on.