In a Nutshell
North Carolina is known for its stunning beaches and the beautiful mist-covered Smoky Mountains. However, beneath these captivating backdrops, many residents grapple with rising living expenses and a volatile employment market.
With a poverty rate of 12.8%, significantly higher than the national average, it's evident that many North Carolinians are struggling to make ends meet.
In this challenging economic landscape, North Carolina offers a range of financial assistance programs to help those in need. From cash aid to nutritional support and healthcare services, these initiatives provide relief for struggling families in the Tar Heel State, helping them overcome financial hardships.
Discover how North Carolina’s financial assistance programs can make a meaningful difference in your life, helping you to build a more stable and secure future for yourself and your family.
Government Assistance Programs in North Carolina
North Carolina government assistance programs help residents meet their essential needs. Initiatives like medical care and cash aid are key to ensuring that individuals and families maintain a stable quality of life during challenging times.
Cash Assistance Programs
North Carolina's cash assistance programs provide financial relief to eligible families in need, helping cover everyday expenses. One key tool is the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system, which streamlines access to cash benefits. Recipients can use their EBT card at authorized retailers.
Work First (WF)
- North Carolina’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program provides cash assistance primarily for children’s well-being
- To receive benefits, parents must sign a Mutual Responsibility Agreement (MRA)/Outcome Plan requiring them to take part in work-related activities
Food and Nutrition Services (FNS)
- Also known as Food Stamps
- Assists low-income individuals and families by providing funds to help cover food expenses
Stimulus Checks
- No new North Carolina stimulus checks are planned for 2025
- NC Residents may still be able to get refunds when filing taxes
- While there’s no state-level Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) or Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) EITC, residents may still qualify for the non-refundable Child Tax Credit
Medical Assistance
From preventive care to specialized treatment, North Carolina offers a range of medical assistance programs to ensure residents can access necessary healthcare services.
NC Medicaid
- Health plans for low-income North Carolinians ages 19-64
- Covers most healthcare costs such as emergency services, doctor visits, podiatry, and optometrist care
Health Check
- Healthcare services for Medicaid-eligible children under 21
- Offers preventive, diagnostic, and treatment services to address the child’s health issues as soon as possible
HealthCare.gov
- Low-cost health coverage for those not eligible for Medicaid
- Covers essential benefits like prescriptions, doctor visits, and hospital care through the Health Insurance Marketplace®
Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program (BCCCP)
- Free or low-cost breast and cervical cancer screenings for eligible women
- Services include mammograms, Pap tests, diagnostic procedures, and medical consultations
Pregnant and Single Mother Programs
North Carolina offers several programs to promote the health and wellness of pregnant women and single mothers, securing a pathway to essential resources and care.
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
- Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for low-income pregnant, breastfeeding women, and children up to age five
- Provides healthy foods, breastfeeding support, education, and community referrals, connecting families with additional resources
Pregnancy Services
- Medical, social, and emotional support for women facing unplanned pregnancies
- The State Maternity Home Fund covers maternity housing and alternative care services for expectant mothers in need
Child Care Services
Child care assistance in North Carolina supports families by providing access to affordable and quality care for their children while parents work or study.
NC Child Care Subsidy
- Assist eligible families with child care costs, helping them achieve greater stability and security
- Eligibility includes being employed, seeking work, participating in educational or training programs, or having children with special needs
Child Care Provider Search
- Helps families find licensed child care providers in their area, ensuring access to quality care for their children
- The search tool includes filters for age, location, and specific needs, allowing parents to make informed decisions based on their child's requirements
Food Assistance
In North Carolina, food assistance programs support families and individuals facing food insecurity, ensuring access to nutritious meals throughout the year.
SUN Bucks
- Also known as Summer EBT
- Grocery-buying benefits to eligible families with school-aged children during summer break when schools are closed
Congregate and Home-Delivered Meals
- Congregate Meals: Lunchtime meals in a group setting for individuals aged 60+ and individuals with disabilities, allowing social engagement opportunities
- Home-Delivered Meals: Delivers nutritious meals to home-bound or isolated seniors aged 60 and older, ensuring they receive proper nutrition
Assistance for Veterans
The NC Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) oversees numerous programs to ensure veterans have access to essential benefits and opportunities. The DMVA also helps veterans navigate the resources available to them, empowering them to thrive in civilian life.
Services provided include:
- Employment Support: Assists veterans and disabled veterans with job placement, ensuring they receive preference in state and local government positions
- Housing Assistance: Offers resources for veterans facing homelessness and provides tax credits or exemptions for current homeowners
- Scholarships for Children of Veterans: Awards scholarships to the children of North Carolina veterans to support their education in state schools
Elderly and Disabled Adult Programs
North Carolina offers valuable support programs to assist seniors and individuals with disabilities, ensuring they receive the care they need for an independent life. These programs cater to each person's unique needs, promoting integration into the community.
Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults (CAP/DA)
- Home and Community-based Services (HCBS) to adults 18 and older with disabilities at risk of institutionalization
- Services include adult day health, meal delivery, Personal Emergency Response Services (PERS), and specialized medical supplies
Adult Day Services
- Supervised programs in a community-group setting for individuals with cognitive or physical impairments, focusing on social, physical, and emotional well-being
Senior Centers
- Essential services and activities for older adults, including information referrals, case assistance, and in-home support
- Group services include educational sessions, cultural events, health education, and recreational trips to foster community engagement and wellness
Utility Bill Assistance
Many North Carolinians face the challenge of managing rising utility costs, especially during extreme weather conditions. Fortunately, several energy assistance programs are available to help eligible households cover utility expenses, ensuring families stay safe and comfortable year-round.
Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP)
- One-time payment for eligible households to assist with heating bills
- Priority is given to households with seniors or individuals with disabilities
Crisis Intervention Program (CIP)
- Emergency assistance for households facing heating or cooling-related crises
- Each case is individually evaluated to determine the urgency and level of need
Assistance for Unemployment
Unemployment assistance programs in NC offer temporary financial relief and additional resources to help individuals find new employment opportunities.
Unemployment Insurance Benefit (UIB)
- Temporary payments to eligible workers who lost their jobs through no fault of their own
- Participants must actively seek work to receive benefits
Unemployment Services
- NCDHHS offers a wealth of resources to help those affected by job loss find the assistance they need
Housing and Homelessness Assistance
North Carolina offers numerous programs to help individuals and families facing homelessness. These resources provide immediate assistance and long-term solutions to ensure everyone has access to safe, affordable housing.
NC Emergency Solutions Grant
- Coordinated Entry serves as the main access point for local homelessness resources, connecting individuals with the necessary services
- Residents can contact their county's Coordinated Entry office via the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) webpage
NC 211
- Free referral service provided by United Way of North Carolina
- Connects people with housing, health, and other human services and resources within their community
Transportation Assistance
Transportation assistance programs in North Carolina help seniors and individuals with limited mobility access essential services and resources. They can arrange travel options for everyday activities, ensuring residents stay connected to their community and maintain their well-being.
There are two main types of transportation services available:
- General Transportation: Offers rides to senior centers, pharmacies, shopping centers, and other daily living destinations
- Medical Transportation: Provides transportation to healthcare facilities, including doctor’s offices, hospitals, and clinics
Check the transportation provider directory (PDF) for a complete list of local providers.
Divorce and Other Legal Assistance
- The North Carolina State Bar offers a list of certified legal specialists and civil legal services programs that provide affordable legal assistance to low-income residents
- Legal Aid of North Carolina helps residents with domestic violence, housing, immigration, and other legal matters for those who can't afford an attorney
Nonprofit Assistance Programs in North Carolina
The Tar Heel State is home to various nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping residents overcome financial challenges. These nonprofits extend a lifeline to communities across the state, offering everything from food assistance to disaster recovery services.
Feeding America
- Seven food banks serve local communities across the state, ensuring access to nutritious food
- Partners with pantries, shelters, and programs for food distribution and support services
GrantWatch
- A platform offering grants for housing, disaster relief, education, financial support and more
- Funding opportunities for multiple sectors, including arts, healthcare, and entrepreneurship
Salvation Army
- Provides immediate relief, short-term care, food, shelter, and financial aid to those in need
- Social service programs include youth services, senior care, and disaster response
How Do You Get Financial Help in North Carolina?
North Carolina offers several financial assistance programs to help residents with essential needs and ease the burden of economic hardships. However, if you're struggling with overwhelming credit card debt or hefty medical bills, partnering with a trusted debt relief company like TurboDebt can make all the difference.
TurboDebt offers tailored North Carolina debt relief programs, providing residents with an effective way to regain control of their finances. In 2024 alone, our team of experts helped thousands of customers save an average of 53% on their total debt before fees.
Here’s what makes TurboDebt the best option for your debt relief needs:
- No upfront fees to get started
- Savings up to 50% or more on your total debt (before fees) with our debt settlement program
- Become debt-free in as little as 12–48 months
- Top-rated customer service, supported by over 18,000+ 5-star TurboDebt reviews from satisfied clients
Don’t let debt hold you back from enjoying the beauty of the Tar Heel State. Contact TurboDebt for a free consultation and take the first step toward a brighter financial future.