The hardest part is knowing what to do first. Go to the nearest social services agency office in your state and schedule an appointment with a caseworker. Depending on the state in which you live, you may be required to fill out some additional paperwork. Usually, it is very simple and only requires basic information about yourself, your income and your family demographics. This paperwork should only take a few minutes to complete.
Be honest and frank with your caseworker during the appointment about what exactly you need help with. Your caseworker will ask for your birth certificate, Social Security card, proof of income, utility and rent payments, and other information, depending on what kind of assistance you need. You will also receive the necessary paperwork if you qualify immediately for government assistance. Fill out all paperwork you receive in the office and through the mail and return it promptly. Contact your caseworker if you have questions.
FAFSA stand for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. By submitting a FAFSA, you can find out about grants and scholarships offered nationwide. Start by looking for Pell grants. These are government-funded grants that do not have to be paid back. Look up other specific grants such as the TEACH grant, the Academic Competitiveness Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, all grants that are offered to students in every kind of situation.
From time to time, you may need to recertify for the aid you are receiving, especially if receiving help at the state level. This is a simple process in which your caseworker makes an appointment with you and reviews your income, your educational status and other pertinent information. Be sure to fill out and send in any a paperwork promptly as delays can interfere with the assistance process.