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When facing financial difficulties, finding a New Hampshire hardship program can feel overwhelming. However, a robust network of support is available to help residents regain stability. Whether you need immediate assistance with housing, utilities, food, or medical bills, various state, local, and non-profit programs are designed to provide a crucial safety net.
This resource breaks down the available aid, clarifying eligibility and guiding you through the steps to secure the help you need. It is important to understand that there is no single, official "New Hampshire Hardship Program." Instead, the term refers to a wide array of distinct services offered by different agencies, each targeting specific needs.
For a person or family in crisis, knowing where to begin is the most critical step. The system of aid can seem complex, but New Hampshire has centralized points of contact designed to connect residents with the right resources quickly and efficiently.
Dial 2-1-1: Your Centralized Information Hub
The most effective first step for anyone unsure of which agency to contact is to dial 2-1-1. This free, confidential service connects callers with trained Information and Referral Specialists who can provide information on a vast range of health and human services. Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, 211 NH serves as a central clearinghouse for resources.
Specialists can provide direct referrals related to:
These specialists are equipped to assess your situation and provide direct referrals to the appropriate local agencies. This saves valuable time and reduces the stress of navigating the system alone.
Community Action Agencies (CAAs): Your Local Connection to Aid
New Hampshire's five regional Community Action Agencies (CAAs) are the primary on-the-ground providers for many of the state's most critical assistance programs. These non-profit organizations form the New Hampshire Community Action Partnership (NHCAP). They serve as the direct application points for essential services like the Fuel Assistance Program and the Electric Assistance Program.
While state entities like the New Hampshire Department of Energy officially administer these utility programs, it is the local CAA that handles all applications from the public. This structure makes the CAAs the essential gateway for residents seeking help with energy bills.
Beyond utilities, CAAs also offer a range of other supports, including housing assistance, emergency food, weatherization services, and affordable child care. Contacting your local CAA is a vital step for accessing multiple forms of aid through a single point of contact.
| County/Region Served | Agency Name | Primary Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Belknap & Merrimack Counties | Community Action Program Belknap-Merrimack Counties, Inc. | (603) 223-0043 |
| Hillsborough & Rockingham Counties | Community Action Partnership Hillsborough and Rockingham Counties (CAPHR) | (603) 668-8010 |
| Cheshire & Sullivan Counties | Southwestern Community Services, Inc. | (603) 352-7512 |
| Strafford County | Community Action Partnership of Strafford County | (603) 435-2500 |
| Coos, Carroll, & Grafton Counties | Tri-County Community Action Program, Inc. | (603) 752-3248 |
The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) administers several core programs that provide foundational support for low-income individuals and families. These programs are the bedrock of the state's safety net, addressing basic needs for financial stability, nutrition, and child care. Applications can be submitted online through the state's portal, NH EASY, or by contacting a local DHHS District Office.
Financial Assistance to Needy Families (FANF)
Financial Assistance to Needy Families (FANF) is New Hampshire's name for the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. FANF provides direct monthly cash assistance to low-income families with children to help them meet their basic needs.
New Hampshire has one of the highest FANF monthly benefit limits in the nation. Despite this, enrollment has declined by about 34% since its peak in April 2020, suggesting many eligible families may not be aware of the support available.
The state has also implemented policies to reduce barriers to work. These include increasing the asset limit for eligibility from $2,000 to $5,000 and establishing a 50% income disregard, meaning half of a family's earned income is not counted when determining benefit amounts.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/Food Stamps)
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps, provides eligible households with monthly funds via an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. These benefits can be used to purchase groceries at participating stores, farmers' markets, and some online retailers.
In a significant policy change, New Hampshire expanded SNAP eligibility by increasing the gross income limit to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and removing the asset test for most households. This change makes many more working families and individuals eligible for food assistance.
This expansion is part of a broader strategy to address food insecurity while also bolstering the local agricultural economy through programs like Double Up Food Bucks. To apply, residents can use the NH EASY portal or receive free application assistance from the NH Food Bank by calling 1-877-347-7627.
Child Care Scholarship Program
The high cost of child care is a major barrier to employment. To address this, DHHS offers the Child Care Scholarship Program to help eligible families afford care.
The state has restructured its child care subsidies to better support working families. Eligibility has been expanded to 85% of the State Median Income (SMI), and co-pays have been reduced for families at lower income levels. These adjustments are critical in a state where the societal value of child care far exceeds what most families can reasonably afford.
Housing stability is a cornerstone of financial well-being. New Hampshire offers several programs aimed at helping residents secure and maintain affordable housing, from long-term rental subsidies to emergency aid to prevent homelessness.
Rental Assistance: The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program
Administered by the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA), the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, formerly known as Section 8, is the state's primary long-term rental assistance program. It provides a subsidy to very low-income households, who then pay a portion of their income (typically 30%) toward rent. The voucher covers the remainder directly to the landlord.
Eligibility is generally limited to households with incomes below 50% of the Area Median Income. It is crucial for applicants to understand that the HCV program is not a solution for immediate housing crises. Due to overwhelming demand, the waiting list for a voucher can be as long as seven to nine years.
Emergency Housing and Homelessness Prevention
For residents facing an immediate housing crisis, a network of emergency resources is available. The first points of contact should be:
The state's Bureau of Homeless Services funds a statewide network of 18 housing programs across 14 agencies that offer low-barrier emergency shelter and transitional housing. Additionally, NHHFA administers special voucher programs for specific groups, including homeless veterans (VASH) and families involved with DCYF (FUP).
Assistance for Homeowners
For homeowners facing financial hardship, the New Hampshire Homeowner Assistance Fund (NH HAF) was established using federal funds. Administered by NHHFA, this program provides aid to eligible homeowners struggling with their mortgage, property taxes, and utility bills due to pandemic-related financial difficulties.
The program offers up to $20,000 per property for mortgage reinstatement or delinquent property charges, and up to $3,000 for utility assistance. Homeowners can find the most current information and apply at HomeHelpNH.org.
New Hampshire provides several key programs to help low-income households manage their energy costs. These programs ensure that residents can stay warm in the winter and keep their power on year-round and are primarily accessed through the state's network of Community Action Agencies.
Electric Assistance Program (EAP)
The EAP offers a monthly discount on electric bills for income-eligible customers of the state's regulated utilities: Eversource, Unitil, Liberty, and New Hampshire Electric Cooperative (NHEC). The discount ranges from 5% to 86%, depending on the household's gross income and size, and applies to the first 750 kWh of monthly usage.
Eligibility is set for households with incomes at or below 60% of the State Median Income (SMI). Applications are accepted year-round exclusively through local CAAs.
Fuel Assistance Program (FAP/LIHEAP)
The federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), known in New Hampshire as the Fuel Assistance Program (FAP), provides a one-time credit to help eligible households pay for their primary heating source. This includes oil, kerosene, propane, wood, pellets, natural gas, or electricity.
Benefit amounts vary from $100 to $2,177 per season, calculated based on income, household size, and energy costs. The application period begins on July 1 for priority households (those with elderly or disabled members, or children under six) and opens to all other households in the fall. All applications must be submitted through a local Community Action Agency.
Gas Assistance Program (GAP)
For households that heat with natural gas, the Gas Assistance Program (GAP) provides an additional layer of support. Available to customers of Liberty Utilities and Unitil-Gas, this program offers a 45% discount on the heating portion of their bills during the winter months (November through April). Eligibility is streamlined for residents already enrolled in other assistance programs like FAP, EAP, or SNAP.
| Household Size | Maximum Gross Annual Income (60% of State Median Income) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $47,604 |
| 2 | $62,252 |
| 3 | $76,900 |
| 4 | $91,548 |
| 5 | $106,195 |
| 6 | $120,843 |
| 7 | $123,589 |
| 8 | $126,336 |
Income guidelines for the Electric Assistance and Fuel Assistance Programs. Data compiled from.
Access to affordable healthcare is a critical component of financial stability. New Hampshire offers several programs to ensure that low-income residents can receive necessary medical care and prescription medications.
New Hampshire Medicaid
NH Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides comprehensive health coverage to hundreds of thousands of Granite Staters. Eligibility is determined through several different pathways:
Residents can apply for all Medicaid programs through the online NH EASY portal.
Help for the Uninsured and Underinsured
For residents who do not qualify for Medicaid but still cannot afford healthcare, other resources are available. While the New Hampshire Health Access Network (NHHAN) ceased formal operations in 2021, individuals should contact the financial counseling department at their local hospital to inquire about charity care or discounted services.
A vital resource for affordable care is the state's network of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). These community health centers provide comprehensive primary medical, dental, and mental health services to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay, using a sliding fee scale.
Prescription Drug Assistance
The cost of medication can be a significant burden. New Hampshire has several programs to help:
A unique component of New Hampshire's social safety net is its system of municipal welfare. Under state law (RSA 165), every city and town is legally required to operate a general assistance program to provide emergency aid to residents in need. This is not an optional service but a mandated responsibility.
This program serves as the aid of last resort, designed to help with basic needs like shelter, rent, utilities, and food when an individual has no other means of support. To apply, residents must contact their local town or city hall and ask to speak with the "welfare official." By law, applicants have the right to fill out a written application and receive a timely, written decision.
Beyond government programs, a dedicated network of non-profit and charitable organizations plays a vital role in providing assistance and filling gaps in the social safety net.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army offers a wide range of emergency services across the state. Depending on location and funding, this can include financial assistance for rent and utilities, food pantries, and emergency shelters. Residents can search for their local corps center or use the SAHelp.org online portal to inquire about assistance.
Catholic Charities New Hampshire
Serving people of all backgrounds, Catholic Charities New Hampshire provides critical support through its regional offices. Services include case management, financial literacy training, and, when available, emergency financial assistance. The organization also runs specialized programs like Liberty House for homeless veterans and New Generation for homeless mothers. Residents can call their statewide helpline at 1-800-562-5249.
Local Food Pantries and Soup Kitchens
The New Hampshire Food Bank is the state's only food bank, distributing food to a network of more than 400 partner agencies, including food pantries and soup kitchens. This network ensures that emergency food is available in communities across all ten counties. To find the nearest food pantry, residents can use the interactive "Food Map" on the NH Food Bank's website.
Navigating financial assistance can be complicated by the "benefits cliff." This occurs when a worker earns a small pay raise that pushes their income just over an eligibility threshold, causing them to lose a far more valuable benefit. The result is a net loss in resources, creating a disincentive to advance in the workforce.
New Hampshire policymakers have recognized this barrier, particularly in the context of the state's tight labor market. The state's economic growth is limited not by a lack of jobs, but by a shortage of available workers, a situation the benefits cliff contributes to.
In response, the state has implemented several strategic policy changes to soften this cliff and create a more gradual transition to self-sufficiency. Key initiatives include:
These changes make the path to financial independence more manageable and are crucial for encouraging greater labor force participation.
Facing financial hardship is a daunting experience, but no one in New Hampshire has to navigate it alone. A comprehensive and multi-layered network of state, municipal, and non-profit programs exists to provide support for nearly every type of need.
From immediate help with food and shelter to long-term support for housing and healthcare, resources are available. The most important step is the first one. By calling 2-1-1 or contacting a local Community Action Agency, you can be connected with trained professionals who can guide you to the right programs for your specific situation.
No, there isn't a single universal application. However, the NH EASY online portal allows you to apply for multiple state-run programs like SNAP, FANF, and Medicaid simultaneously. For other assistance, such as fuel or housing aid, you will need to apply directly through your local Community Action Agency.
Generally, you will need proof of identity (like a driver's license), proof of New Hampshire residency (utility bill), income verification for all household members (pay stubs, tax returns), and documentation of your expenses, such as a lease agreement or past-due utility notices.
Yes. Many New Hampshire hardship programs are designed to support low-income working individuals and families. Eligibility is based on household income and size, not solely on employment status. Programs like the Electric Assistance Program and SNAP are specifically structured to supplement the income of working residents.
Timelines vary significantly. Emergency SNAP benefits can sometimes be issued within seven days. For urgent needs like an eviction or utility shutoff, contacting your local Community Action Agency or Municipal Welfare office directly is the fastest route, as they can often provide more immediate, short-term crisis intervention.
State-funded programs typically do not cover vehicle repairs. However, the Financial Assistance for Needy Families (FANF) program may offer special employment-related assistance. Your best option is often to contact your local Community Action Agency, as some have limited discretionary funds or grants for transportation-related emergencies.
If you're denied assistance, first review the decision letter to understand the reason. You have the right to appeal the decision within a specific timeframe. Additionally, contact 2-1-1 NH or your local Community Action Agency to explore non-profit or local aid programs for which you may still be eligible.
Direct state programs for property tax relief are limited, though elderly or disabled homeowners may qualify for exemptions. Your first call should be to your city or town's Municipal Welfare office. They are the primary resource for potential emergency assistance related to preventing a property tax deed.
If your income is just over the threshold, you may still have options. Ask the program administrator if certain expenses, like child care or medical costs, can be deducted from your gross income. Also, explore programs with higher income limits, as eligibility varies significantly between different forms of aid.
No. According to the IRS, benefits from programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), housing assistance, and the Fuel Assistance Program (LIHEAP) are not considered taxable income. You do not need to report this assistance on your federal or state tax returns.
Yes, you can act as an "Authorized Representative" to apply for benefits on behalf of someone who is unable to apply themselves, such as an elderly parent or a person with a disability. You will need to complete specific forms and provide documentation to legally act on their behalf.
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