FAQ
Can I claim the EITC for past years?
Yes, you can claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for prior years by filing an amended tax return. You have time limits for how far back you can go.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 21, 2026 · 1 min read
News and guides
Income limit changes, deadlines and plain-English explainers, researched from official sources.
FAQ
Can I get the EITC without children?
Yes. You can get the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) without children, but the credit is smaller and you must meet different income limits.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 21, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
Can I get unemployment if I was fired?
It depends on why you were fired. You may qualify for unemployment benefits if you were let go through no fault of your own. If you were fired for misconduct, you usually won't qualify.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 21, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Can I work while getting SSI?
Yes, you can work while getting SSI (Supplemental Security Income). Some of your earnings won't count against your benefits because of special rules.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 21, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
Does Section 8 pay all of your rent?
Section 8 typically covers part of your rent, not all of it. You usually pay the rest from your own income.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 21, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
How long does it take to get food stamps after applying?
SNAP (food stamps) can take [VERIFY: processing timeline in days] after you apply. The exact time depends on your state and whether you submit all required documents quickly.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 21, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
How long does it take to get approved for SSDI?
SSDI applications usually take 3-5 months to decide, but can take much longer if you appeal. Here's what to expect at each stage.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 21, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
Is the Child Tax Credit refundable?
Yes, part of the Child Tax Credit can be refundable if you qualify. Find out how much and what that means for your taxes.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 21, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
What happens if I don't report a change in income to SNAP?
Not reporting a change in income to SNAP can result in overpayments you'll need to repay, penalties, and disqualification from the program.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 21, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
What should I do if my benefits application is lost or delayed?
If your application goes missing or takes longer than expected, contact your state agency right away to track it down. You may be able to resubmit or file a complaint to get things moving.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 21, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
What is expedited SNAP and who qualifies?
Expedited SNAP gets you benefits within 7 days instead of the usual wait. You may qualify if you have very low income or recently lost income.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 21, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Can a single person with no kids get food stamps?
Yes. SNAP (food stamps) is available to single adults with no children if you meet income and asset limits. You don't need dependents to qualify.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
Can dads or grandparents apply for WIC?
No. WIC is only for pregnant women, women who recently gave birth, infants, and children under age 5. But dads and grandparents can help eligible family members apply.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Can I apply for benefits for someone else?
In most cases, you can only apply for benefits for yourself or as the main contact for your household. But there are situations where a representative or family member can help.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Can I apply for Medicaid at any time of year?
Yes, you can apply for Medicaid any time of year. There's no enrollment season like there is for other health insurance. Learn how to apply.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Can I claim unclaimed money for a relative who died?
You may be able to claim unclaimed money that belonged to a deceased relative. The rules depend on your state and your relationship to the person who died.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
Can I get help if I have a utility shut-off notice?
Yes. LIHEAP (the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) helps pay heating and cooling bills during an energy crisis, including when you have a shut-off notice.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Can I get Lifeline if I'm on SNAP or Medicaid?
Yes. Getting SNAP or Medicaid makes you automatically eligible for Lifeline phone and internet discounts. You still need to apply.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Can I get LIHEAP if heat is included in my rent?
Yes, you may still qualify for LIHEAP even if your landlord includes heat in your rent. Learn how the program works when utilities are bundled with housing costs.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Can I get Medicaid if I have a job?
Yes, you can get Medicaid while working. Having a job doesn't automatically disqualify you—what matters is your income level.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Can I get Medicare before age 65?
Yes, you can get Medicare before 65 if you have certain disabilities, end-stage renal disease, or ALS. Most people become eligible at 65.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Can I get SNAP and WIC at the same time?
Yes. SNAP and WIC are separate programs with different rules. You can qualify for both and use them together to feed your family.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Can I get SSI and SSDI at the same time?
In most cases, no. You cannot receive both SSI and SSDI at the same time. However, there are rare situations where you might qualify for both programs.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Can I get unemployment if I quit my job?
In most cases, you cannot get unemployment benefits if you quit. But you may qualify if you quit for good cause.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Can I move to another state with a Section 8 voucher?
You can move to another state with a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8), but you need permission from your current housing authority first. The process takes time and not all areas accept transfers.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
Can I use my EBT card to buy groceries online?
Yes, you can use your EBT card to buy groceries online at certain retailers. Not all stores accept online EBT payments yet, so you'll need to check which ones participate in your area.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
Can I work part time and still get unemployment?
Yes, you can work part time and collect unemployment benefits in most states. But your part-time earnings will reduce your benefits.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Can my child get CHIP if I have insurance through work?
Yes, your child can get CHIP even if you have work insurance. CHIP is for uninsured children, but having family coverage doesn't automatically disqualify them.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
Can undocumented parents apply for benefits for their U.S. citizen children?
Yes. If your child is a U.S. citizen, they can qualify for food, health coverage and other benefits even if you are undocumented. Your immigration status does not affect your child's eligibility.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Do I have to pay back government benefits?
It depends on the program. Most benefits don't need to be repaid, but some do if you received more than you were eligible for.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
Do roommates count as part of my SNAP household?
It depends. Roommates count as part of your SNAP household only if you buy and prepare food together. If you buy and cook separately, they don't count.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Does child support count as income for SNAP?
Child support you receive counts as income for SNAP. But if you pay child support, that amount is deducted, which can lower what you owe and raise your benefits.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Does Medicaid cover dental care for adults?
Medicaid covers dental care in some states, but not all. Coverage varies widely by state and depends on your age and whether you qualify for Medicaid.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
Does Medicaid have an asset limit?
It depends on your state and which group you belong to. Most Medicaid programs for adults have no asset limit, but some states and some groups do.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Do SNAP benefits count as income for taxes?
No. SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits do not count as taxable income. You don't report them on your tax return.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Does TANF have a time limit?
Yes. Federal law limits most adults to 60 months (5 years) of TANF cash assistance, though some people may qualify for exceptions.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
Does the IRS hold refunds people never claimed?
Yes, the IRS holds unclaimed tax refunds indefinitely. You can claim them for previous years by filing a tax return.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
Does WIC ask about immigration status?
WIC does not ask about immigration status. You can apply regardless of your citizenship or immigration status.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
How far back can Medicaid pay medical bills?
Medicaid can pay for medical care from up to 3 months before you applied, but only if you were eligible during that time. Each state sets its own rules.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
How long can you get WIC?
WIC benefits last as long as you stay eligible. Your eligibility depends on your age, income, and nutrition risk—and these can change over time.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
How long does unemployment last?
Unemployment benefits usually last up to 26 weeks, but it depends on your state and the type of benefits you get.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
How many Lifeline phones can one household get?
Most households can get only one Lifeline discount phone service per household, but there are a few exceptions. Here's what you need to know.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
Is unclaimed money real, and how do I know a site is legitimate?
Yes, unclaimed money is real. Billions of dollars sit in state accounts waiting for people to claim it. But many scam sites charge fees or ask for personal information. Here's how to stay safe.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
What can you buy with SNAP, and what can't you buy?
SNAP benefits pay for food you prepare at home, like fruits, vegetables, meat, and bread. You can't buy prepared foods, hot foods, or non-food items.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
What does the QMB program pay for?
QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary) covers your Medicare Part B premiums, deductibles, and copayments if you have low income. It's a state program that helps reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 1 min read
FAQ
What if I make too much for Medicaid?
You may still qualify. Medicaid income limits vary by state and by who you are. Even if you earn too much for Medicaid, you might qualify for other health coverage programs.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
What counts as my household size for benefits?
Your household size for benefits depends on who lives with you and shares food or income. The rules vary by program, but generally include your spouse, children, and parents or children you support.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
When does LIHEAP open in my state?
LIHEAP (the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) opens at different times in each state. Find out when to apply where you live.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
When will I get my tax refund if I claim the EITC?
Your refund timing depends on how you file and whether the IRS needs to review your return. Most refunds arrive within 21 days of filing, but EITC claims may take longer.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read
FAQ
Will using benefits affect my green card application (public charge)?
It depends on which benefits you use. Most common benefits won't hurt your green card application, but some benefits could count against you.
Benefits Research Desk · Sep 18, 2026 · 2 min read