Money
Ask about it
Tell us more about what you need. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.
Programs in Massachusetts
Massachusetts programs for this kind of help. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Department of Transitional Assistance
Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children
In Massachusetts, TANF is called TAFDC.
TAFDC gives eligible families with children cash assistance and related supports.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
Department of Transitional Assistance
Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children
EAEDC provides cash assistance to eligible older adults, people with disabilities, and certain caregivers.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
Department of Revenue, Child Support Services Division
Child Support Services
The department helps parents establish, change, and enforce child support orders.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
Executive Office of Veterans' Services
Massachusetts veterans services
The state veterans office connects eligible veterans and their families with state benefits and services.
Ways to apply:PhonePaperIn person
Department of Revenue
Massachusetts Earned Income Tax Credit
The Massachusetts EITC can reduce the tax bill or increase the refund for eligible workers and families.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaper
Checked on October 8, 2026
Federal programs
These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Social Security Administration
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Monthly payments for people with little income and few resources who are 65 or older, blind, or have a disability, including children.
Apply online at SSA.gov or call Social Security to make an appointment. Bring proof of age, income and any medical records.
Social Security Administration
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Monthly payments for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes and now cannot work because of a disability that will last a long time.
Apply online at SSA.gov or call Social Security. Have your medical records and work history ready.
Social Security Administration
Social Security retirement benefits
Monthly payments for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes, starting as early as 62. Spouses and widows may also get benefits.
Apply online at SSA.gov about four months before you want payments to start, or call Social Security.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
VA disability compensation and benefits
Monthly payments for veterans with an illness or injury caused or made worse by military service, plus education, home loan and other benefits.
File a claim online at VA.gov or call VA. A free accredited representative can help you file.
Internal Revenue Service
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
A federal tax credit for people who work and earn low to moderate income. It can mean a bigger refund, even if you owe no tax.
Claim it when you file your federal tax return. Free help from VITA or IRS Free File can make sure you get it.
Internal Revenue Service
VITA and TCE free tax help
IRS-certified volunteers prepare and file your taxes for free, in person, for people with low or moderate income, older adults and people with disabilities.
Find a site near you on IRS.gov or call the locator line, then bring your ID and tax papers.
Internal Revenue Service
IRS Free File
File your federal tax return online for free with tax software offered through the IRS, if your income is under the year's limit.
Start from IRS.gov so you get the free version. Fillable forms are free for everyone.
Checked on October 9, 2026
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- Mass 211
Free help finding food, housing, bills and more near you.
Call 211 - 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or worried about someone. Any time.
Call 988Text 988