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Finding the right support during challenging times can feel overwhelming. A wide array of North Dakota assistance programs exists to help residents meet their basic needs for food, housing, healthcare, and family stability. These programs are administered by state and local agencies and are designed to provide a crucial safety net and a pathway toward self-sufficiency.
For many of the state's core services, the application process has been streamlined through centralized online portals and support centers. This makes it easier for individuals and families to access the help they need from a single point of contact. The resources detailed here offer a clear and direct path to understanding the benefits available, who qualifies for them, and how to apply.
North Dakota has developed a coordinated system to help residents apply for its primary economic assistance programs, including SNAP (food), LIHEAP (energy), TANF (family financial aid), and CCAP (child care). Instead of navigating separate offices for each type of aid, residents can use one of three main access points. This integrated approach simplifies the process, ensuring that whether you apply online, in person, or over the phone, you are connected to the same support network.
The Self-Service Portal (SSP): Your Online Hub
The Self-Service Portal (SSP) is the state's primary online tool for applying for and managing benefits for several key programs. It is designed to be the most direct and efficient way for residents to handle their cases from home. Getting started is a simple, three-step process:
For those who need help navigating the system, the state provides tutorials with videos and step-by-step instructions on the SSP Help Page.
Human Service Zones: In-Person Local Support
Human Service Zones are the local, in-person offices (formerly known as county social service offices) where residents can receive direct, face-to-face assistance. These offices are the physical hubs for the delivery of benefits and services across the state. Staff at Human Service Zones can help with a wide range of needs, including:
These zones serve as the frontline resource for North Dakotans, ensuring that in-person support is available within their communities.
Customer Support Center: Help by Phone, Email, or Mail
For residents who prefer to get help remotely without using the online portal, the Customer Support Center acts as a centralized contact point for multiple assistance programs. The center's staff are equipped to handle a variety of tasks and inquiries. You can contact the Customer Support Center to:
Contact Information for the Customer Support Center:
| Program Name | Primary Need Addressed | Key Eligibility Group | Primary Application Method(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP | Food & Groceries | Low-income individuals & families | SSP Portal, Human Service Zone |
| LIHEAP | Home Heating & Energy Costs | Low-income households | SSP Portal, Human Service Zone |
| Medicaid | Healthcare Coverage | Low-income individuals, children, pregnant women, seniors, disabled | SSP Portal, Human Service Zone, ND Navigator |
| TANF | Financial Aid for Families | Low-income families with children | SSP Portal, Human Service Zone |
| CCAP | Child Care Costs | Working or student families | SSP Portal, Human Service Zone |
| SPED/HCBS | Senior In-Home Care | Seniors & disabled individuals | Human Service Zone, ADRL |
| Veterans Grants | Financial Hardship | Veterans & their dependents | County Veterans Service Officer |
| Unemployment | Lost Wages | Unemployed workers | Job Service ND Website |
North Dakota offers several programs aimed at ensuring residents have access to nutritious food, particularly low-income families, children, and seniors. These programs operate as a coordinated network, where a federal program is enhanced by state and non-profit initiatives. This approach boosts both enrollment and the value of the benefits provided.
This public-private partnership creates a robust safety net that addresses food insecurity. It also supports local economies by encouraging spending at local retailers and farmers markets.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, is the nation's largest anti-hunger program and serves as the primary resource for food assistance in North Dakota.
Benefits
SNAP provides monthly benefits on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card. These benefits can be used to purchase groceries at authorized retail locations, including grocery stores and farmers markets.
The program is also a significant economic driver. It is estimated that every dollar in SNAP benefits generates $1.50 in local economic activity.
Eligibility
Eligibility is based on household size and income. For example, for the period of October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, a four-person household must generally have a gross monthly income at or below $3,483 to qualify. Both individuals and families with low income may be eligible.
Application Process
Residents can apply for SNAP using North Dakota's centralized system:
Application Assistance
For those who need help with the application process, the Great Plains Food Bank offers free assistance through its SNAP Outreach Coordinators. They can be reached at 855-405-0000 or SNAP@greatplainsfoodbank.org.
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides targeted nutritional support to pregnant women, new mothers, and children up to age five who are at nutritional risk.
Additional Food Resources
Beyond SNAP and WIC, other programs and organizations work to enhance food security in the state.
Maintaining stable housing is a cornerstone of financial security. North Dakota provides several programs designed to help residents with housing costs, with a particular focus on making home energy affordable, especially during the cold winter months.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps low-income households with their home heating and energy costs.
Benefits
The program provides partial payment for a variety of heating fuel sources, including natural gas, electricity, propane, and fuel oil. Importantly, LIHEAP assistance extends beyond just paying bills. It also covers:
Eligibility
Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on household size and income. For the 2025-2026 heating season, a four-person household with a monthly income at or below $6,497 may qualify. Both homeowners and renters are eligible for the program.
The program has moved to a year-round eligibility model. This means that if you are currently approved for LIHEAP, you do not need to reapply for the next season.
Application Process
Applications are accepted year-round through the state's standard channels: the online SSP, in person at a Human Service Zone, or by mail via the Customer Support Center.
Help for Homeowners and Renters
The state offers targeted programs to help residents avoid foreclosure or eviction.
Weatherization Assistance Program
Administered by the North Dakota Department of Commerce, the Weatherization Assistance Program aims to increase the energy efficiency of homes owned or occupied by low-income persons. By improving insulation, sealing air leaks, and ensuring heating systems are efficient, the program helps reduce residential energy expenditures and improve the health and safety of occupants. This program often works in conjunction with LIHEAP to provide comprehensive energy solutions.
Access to affordable healthcare is essential for individual and family well-being. North Dakota has established an integrated system to ensure residents can enroll in health coverage, whether through state-run programs or the federal marketplace.
This "no wrong door" approach means the systems are designed to guide applicants to the correct program without forcing them to start over. This is true regardless of where a person starts their application—be it a state office, the federal website, or with a free enrollment assister.
North Dakota Medicaid and Medicaid Expansion
North Dakota Medicaid is a joint state and federal program that provides free or low-cost health coverage to qualifying residents.
Healthy Steps (CHIP) for Children
The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), known as Healthy Steps in North Dakota, is designed for families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford to buy private health insurance.
Getting Help with Enrollment (ND Navigator)
For those who find the health insurance landscape confusing, the ND Navigator program offers a crucial service.
North Dakota provides direct financial support and child care assistance to help low-income families achieve stability and work toward self-sufficiency. These programs are essential for parents who are working, training, or pursuing education to improve their family's economic future.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
TANF is a program that provides temporary cash assistance and supportive services to eligible families with children.
Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
CCAP helps make child care more affordable for low-income families, enabling parents to work or attend school.
Specialized Child Care Support
In addition to the primary CCAP, North Dakota has developed targeted programs to address specific child care needs.
North Dakota offers a range of services designed to help seniors and older adults live safely and independently in their communities. These programs address in-home care, financial relief on property taxes, and assistance with prescription drug costs.
In-Home Care and Community-Based Services
The state prioritizes helping seniors age in place by providing services that support them in their own homes rather than in institutional settings. The central point of contact for these services is the Aging and Disability Resource-LINK (ADRL), which can be reached toll-free at 1-855-462-5465.
Property Tax Relief for Seniors (Homestead Credit)
The Homestead Property Tax Credit program provides significant property tax relief to eligible senior citizens and disabled individuals.
Benefits
The amount of the credit is based on income.
Eligibility
To qualify, a homeowner must be 65 years of age or older (or permanently and totally disabled) and have a total household income of no more than $70,000 after deducting out-of-pocket medical expenses.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted to the local city assessor or county director of tax equalization. A related Renter's Refund program is also available for eligible renters, with applications submitted to the Office of the State Tax Commissioner.
Prescription Drug Assistance
Several programs are available to help seniors manage the cost of prescription medications.
North Dakota provides a robust support system for its veterans and their families. While the state's primary economic assistance programs are centralized, veteran support operates through a distinct, decentralized network. The key to navigating this system is the County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO).
The CVSO acts as the primary local gateway and navigator for veterans. They connect veterans to a collaborative network of state-run programs and non-profit veteran service organizations like the VFW and American Legion. For any veteran seeking assistance, the first and most important step is to contact their local CVSO.
Financial Grants and Loans for Veterans
Direct financial assistance is available to veterans facing hardship.
Other Veteran Benefits (Housing, Education, Tax Exemptions)
A variety of other state-level benefits are available to honor and support North Dakota's veterans.
North Dakota offers specialized programs to provide financial, medical, and vocational support to residents with disabilities. These programs empower them to live more independently and participate fully in their communities.
Financial and Medical Support
Several programs offer direct financial and medical aid to eligible individuals.
Employment and Advocacy Services
Support is also available to help individuals with disabilities find employment and advocate for their rights.
For residents who have lost their job through no fault of their own, North Dakota provides temporary financial assistance and resources to help them re-enter the workforce. These services are administered by Job Service North Dakota.
Filing for Unemployment Benefits
Unemployment insurance provides temporary weekly payments to eligible workers who are unemployed.
Eligibility
To qualify for benefits, an individual must meet three core requirements:
Application Process
Claims should be filed as soon as you become unemployed, as they cannot be backdated. There are two ways to file a claim:
You will need to provide your Social Security number and information about your employers from the last 18 months.
Job Service North Dakota Resources
Job Service North Dakota is the state's primary agency for both unemployment insurance and workforce development. In addition to processing unemployment claims, the agency provides a wide array of services to help job seekers find suitable employment, including job listings, resume assistance, career counseling, and training resources.
This is a state-funded program that helps individuals who are aged 65 or older, or 18 or older and blind or disabled, pay for care in a licensed basic care facility. Applicants must be financially eligible for Medicaid and require assistance with daily living activities.
Yes. North Dakota's Healthy Steps program (CHIP) provides free or low-cost health, dental, and vision coverage for children in working families. It is designed for those whose household income is too high to qualify for Medicaid but too low to afford private insurance.
Yes, the General Assistance (GA) program is designed for short-term emergencies. It can help families in a financial crisis, adults with disabilities awaiting other benefits, or assist with burial expenses for indigent persons. It is not intended for long-term, ongoing support.
This is a state-financed, short-term program for residents aged 21-65 who are not eligible for Medicaid. It specifically covers treatment for emergent, sight-threatening conditions (like retinal detachment) or restorative surgery (like cataracts) when vision in the better eye is worse than 20/50.
No. The Remedial Care program is not for routine vision care. It is strictly for short-term medical or surgical treatment to prevent blindness or restore sight from a specific condition. It does not cover standard eye exams, glasses, or contacts.
The North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD) offers a Direct Financial Assistance Program. This program can help qualified individuals with disabilities pay for medical equipment, prescriptions, and home or vehicle modifications, like ramps or lifts.
Yes. NDAD's Healthcare Equipment Loan Program (HELP) allows North Dakota residents to borrow durable medical equipment—such as walkers, wheelchairs, or bath benches—free of charge for up to three months. This program does not have an application process or financial qualifications.
The NDAD Direct Financial Assistance Program may also provide funds to help cover expenses for out-of-town medical travel, such as gas or lodging. This is for individuals with disabilities who must travel to receive specialized medical care.
TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) provides monthly cash assistance and work-readiness services to low-income families with children. General Assistance (GA) is a limited, short-term emergency fund for any eligible resident (with or without children) facing a specific crisis, such as an eviction or utility shutoff.
The easiest way is through the North Dakota Health and Human Services Self-Service Portal online. You can use this single application to apply for multiple programs at once, including SNAP (food stamps), LIHEAP (heating assistance), Medicaid, and Child Care Assistance.
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