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Life change guide

I'm moving to a new state

When you move states, you may qualify for new benefits. Learn what to apply for first: SNAP, Medicaid, unemployment, and unclaimed property.

Where to start

Moving to a new state is a big change. Between packing, finding a home and maybe starting a new job, benefits can slip through the cracks. A little planning can help you avoid a gap in help.

Many programs, like SNAP and Medicaid, are run by each state. That usually means your benefits do not move with you. You will likely need to tell your old state you are leaving and apply again in your new one. Each state has its own rules, so what you get may change.

The move is also a good time to look for money you may be owed. Old deposits, final paychecks and refunds sometimes go unclaimed when people move. Searching is quick, and it could turn up money that is yours.

Do these first

  1. 1

    Tell your old state you are moving

    Report your move to the offices that handle your SNAP and Medicaid. This can help you avoid being paid benefits you later have to pay back.

  2. 2

    Apply for SNAP in your new state

    SNAP is run by each state, so apply with your new state soon after you move. Ask how to avoid a gap in your benefits.

    About SNAP
  3. 3

    Apply for Medicaid in your new state

    Medicaid rules and income limits differ by state. You can apply at any time of year through your new state or HealthCare.gov.

    About Medicaid
  4. 4

    Update your unemployment claim

    If you get unemployment benefits, tell the state that pays them about your new address. Keep following its rules so your payments continue.

    About Unemployment
  5. 5

    Search for unclaimed money

    Search the unclaimed property records in your old state and your new state. Deposits, final paychecks and refunds sometimes end up there.

    About Unclaimed Money

Programs that can help

SNAPUSDA Food and Nutrition ServiceSNAP gives monthly benefits on an EBT card to help households with low income buy food.MedicaidCenters for Medicare & Medicaid ServicesMedicaid is free or low-cost health coverage run by each state with federal funding, for children, adults, pregnant people, older adults and people with disabilities.UnemploymentUS Department of Labor / state workforce agenciesUnemployment insurance pays temporary cash benefits to workers who lose their jobs and meet their state's rules.Unclaimed MoneyState treasurers / NAUPAUnclaimed property is money owed to you, like old bank accounts or uncashed checks, that your state holds until you claim it.

Offers that can help

Services from our partners. You never need a paid service to apply for benefits.

Advertiser disclosure
We may earn a commission when you use partner links. Partners never affect which programs we show, how we rank them, or our editorial content. How we make money

ClearLine Wireless

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Good to know

Lifeline is limited to one discount per household.

Harbor Prepaid Card

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Best for
No bank account
Early pay
Up to 2 days
Pros and details

Pros

  • No credit check
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Good to know

A $5 monthly fee applies without direct deposit. SNAP benefits can't be loaded.