Why Don’t I Qualify, and Can That Change?
Each government assistance program has its own rules. These rules are set by federal or state law and can be strict. Many programs look at some or all of the following:
Common Eligibility Factors
Household income: how much money everyone in your home earns
Household size: how many people rely on you for care and how many people contribute income
Basic information: where you live, your age, disability status, work hours, or current living situation
Expecting parents: If you're pregnant and don't have other children at home, you'll need to retake your eligibility after your baby arrives. Most childcare programs accept babies who are 6 weeks old or older.
Even if you do not qualify today, your status can change over time. Be sure to use Benefits Scout to check again if you experience a major life change.
Examples of Major Life Changes That May Affect Eligibility
A drop in your income or job loss
A new baby or taking in a child through foster care
A change in disability status or health
Losing housing or experiencing homelessness
A change in work hours (increase or decrease)
Program Funding Can Also Change
Government programs depend on funding from federal and state budgets. When funding increases or rules change, often every 1-2 years, more families may become eligible.
Tip: Keep an eye on your state and federal updates to see if new support becomes available, or routinely check Benefits Scout for eligibility as we have the most up to date information for programs.
Are There Other Programs I Might Qualify For?
Even if one program says no, there may be others that can help.
Tax Credits
Tax credits reduce the amount of tax you owe, and some can increase your refund. Many families qualify even if they don’t receive other forms of assistance.
Examples include:
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for low- to moderate-income workers
Child Tax Credit (CTC) for parents or caregivers
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) for care-related expenses (up to $2,100, depending on income and costs)
Local & Community Resources
Nonprofit organizations that offer financial help, housing support, food programs, and emergency services
Community action agencies that connect families with multiple support programs
Food banks and pantries
Local housing support centers
Workplace or School Resources
Employer assistance programs (EAPs)
Workplace benefits such as flexible spending accounts, emergency grants, or paid leave
College or community college resource centers if someone in the household is a student
Community & Faith-Based Networks
Religious organizations, local churches, synagogues, mosques
Community cooperatives that share resources
Parent or neighborhood groups that trade services or provide peer support
If You Still Need Help
If you believe you were denied incorrectly or you need to double-check your status:
Contact your state benefits office
Ask for a case review or appeal
Reach out to a local advocate or community action agency
Assistance systems can be hard to navigate, but you don’t have to do it alone. Feel free to chat with Mirza support if you have any additional questions. We’re here to help.
