SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
Need-based monthly payments for low-income people who are disabled, blind, or 65+.
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SSA Compassionate Allowances: Fast-Track Disability Guide
Compassionate Allowances (CAL) is SSA's system for fast-tracking disability claims for conditions severe enough that they clearly meet SSA's disability standard. It currently covers over 300 conditions, mostly aggressive cancers, adult brain disorders, and rare diseases that primarily affect children.
SSDI, SSI, and Medicaid: How They Work Together
SSDI can lead to Medicare, but usually only after a 24-month wait (exceptions: ALS and ESRD). SSI often leads to Medicaid, usually automatically depending on your state. You can qualify for both. And returning to work doesn't automatically end coverage. Plan ahead for the Medicare wait.
Where To File for Unemployment Benefits in Every State
Need unemployment benefits? Learn how to file in your state. BenefitKarma provides a directory of state unemployment offices and guidance on making the most of your benefits.
LIHEAP on the Chopping Block in Proposed 2027 Budget
A proposed budget could cut funding for LIHEAP, a vital program helping low-income families pay energy bills. Learn what this means for your household and how to prepare for potential changes.
How Social Security’s Digital-First Shift Affects You in 2026
Social Security’s Digital-First update is cutting phone wait times, offering 24/7 online access, and reducing backlogs in 2026. Learn what’s changed and what beneficiaries should do now.
The Unemployment Benefit Dilemma: How Lower Earners Are Shortchanged
Lower earners often get less unemployment than expected due to wage replacement rates and weekly caps. Here's why—and what you can do.
New Social Security Bill Would Raise Monthly Benefits and Strengthen the Program Long Term
The SAFE Social Security Act would raise average benefits by $150 a month, modernize cost-of-living adjustments, and strengthen Social Security’s long-term funding by lifting the payroll tax cap.
What to Know About the New ‘Warrior Dividend’ Announced by President Trump
The new Warrior Dividend sends $1,776 to eligible service members. Here’s where the money comes from, who qualifies, and what it means.
New Job Classifications May Change Your Student Loan & Benefits Eligibility
Recent federal job classification updates may change who qualifies for certain benefits and student loan programs. Check how your job is now categorized.
Social Security Doesn’t Accept Power of Attorney: Why that Matters for Your Benefits
Many people are surprised to learn Social Security ignores power of attorney. Here’s how to make sure your benefits stay protected.
SNAP Jeopardized Again — This Time Because of Immigration Issues
A new federal–state dispute over SNAP data sharing has raised fresh concerns about food assistance funding, on the heels of the shutdown delaying November benefits.
Should Social Security Cap COLA Increases for High Earners?
A new proposal would cap Social Security COLA increases for high earners to help protect the program’s long-term solvency. Here’s how the idea works.
GI Benefits Restored for Veterans Discharged Over Covid Vaccine
The VA is restoring GI Bill education benefits to veterans discharged for refusing the Covid vaccine. Learn who qualifies, what’s restored, and how to reclaim benefits.
What Happens to Medicare When People Are Living Longer?
Americans are living longer than ever, making Medicare planning more important for seniors and their families. Learn how rising life expectancy affects healthcare needs.
Trump’s $2,000 Tariff Dividend: Is it Real?
Trump has proposed giving Americans $2,000 each from tariff revenue, but according to PBS/PolitiFact, the math doesn’t work.
What Happens When Healthcare Subsidies Expire?
As health insurance subsidies expire, millions of low-income families face rising healthcare costs, risking their access to necessary medical care.
TrumpRx Prescription Website: What it Means for Drug Costs
TrumpRx is a new prescription website launching in 2026 that may help seniors and families compare prices and save on medications.
How to Sign Up for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace
Learn how to sign up for health coverage through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace in 2025–26. Find deadlines, compare plans, and see how to get financial help for premiums and copays.
Here's How Special Enrollment Periods Work (And Who Offers Them)
Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) let you apply for health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and SNAP outside normal deadlines. See when you qualify.
Project DASH: How DoorDash Is Helping Deliver Food to Families in Need
Project DASH uses DoorDash's delivery network to bring free groceries from local food banks to homebound individuals facing transportation or mobility barriers.