Wisconsin Benefits
BadgerCare
BadgerCare Plus (BC+) is a state-sponsored health insurance program launched on February 1, 2008. It is aimed at low-income, vulnerable population groups such as children under 19 years old (regardless of income), pregnant women living up to 300% of the Federal Poverty Level, and adults with certain household arrangements.
Financial Aid
Wisconsin offers financial aid to low-income households, senior citizens, and people with disabilities. Residents can access help with housing, food, and medical costs. Additional aid is available for utility assistance, employment training, and child care support.
Food Stamps
Foodshare Wisconsin, formerly known as "food stamps", is a federal supplementary nutritional assistance program by the Department of Health Services (DHS) that aims to help the low-income residents get adequate food and nutritional needs each month. Approved beneficiaries will be issued a Wisconsin QUEST card that they will present at selected grocery stores, outlets, and facilities in order to access their Foodshare benefits.
LIHEAP
The Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally sponsored program that helps low income families in the state of Wisconsin meets the high costs of energy. This program provides regular heating and electric assistance to low income families in the state along with other specialized services such as emergency fuel assistance, energy utilization counseling and co-payment plans.
Medicaid
Wisconsin Medicaid offers medical and health care services to individuals with income up to 200% of the federal poverty guideline and up to 300% for children and pregnant women.
SSDI
Wisconsin residents who meet specific eligibility criteria can receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. To qualify, you must have a serious medical condition that prevents you from working.
TEFAP
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) in Wisconsin leverages USDA commodities to offer food assistance to eligible residents, playing an important role in the state's efforts to combat hunger. Through partnerships with local food banks and pantries, TEFAP in Wisconsin ensures that nutritious foods reach those facing food insecurity.
Unemployment
The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development provides temporary financial assistance for workers who have worked in the state of Wisconsin during the past 18 months and have lost their job due to no fault of their own. These benefits only offer a partial wage replacement for qualified individuals for as long as they don't find new work. Registering and finding new work is mandatory for those receiving Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits in Wisconsin. Applying for UI benefits in Wisconsin is easy using the online application system. Before you start with a new claim, it is important that you learn about eligibility and the information that you will need in order to file a claim. Primarily you will need to provide personal information, work history and information about your previous employers. You will also accurately report wages which will decide the amount of benefits that you may be eligible to receive during unemployment period.
Veterans Disability
In Wisconsin, Veterans Disability Benefits are offered to veterans who have suffered injuries or developed a medical condition during their active military service. Along with disability benefits, Wisconsin veterans can access comprehensive healthcare services, VA home loans, education and training programs, and much more.
WAP
The Wisconsin Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a federally funded program that helps low-income households in the state to reduce the cost of their energy related utility bills. This is achieved by implementing energy efficiency measures in the homes of beneficiary households. These energy efficiency measures are based on the result of a comprehensive computerized energy audit carried out by a program representative.
WIC
Tough times have brought an increased influx in social services applications in all corners of United States. A number of federal funded programs such as WIC exist to help low income families meet basic needs, pregnant women, new mothers infants and children below five years of age who meet income guidelines can apply for WIC services through Wisconsin Department of Public Health. For Healthy women, infants, and children ,the program provides leadership and support to local public health nutritionists the program also encourages networking and information exchange at local, state and national levels and provide Special Supplemental Nutrition.
Wisconsin Works (TANF)
The Wisconsin Works program, also known as W-2, provides financial support to families in economic distress, with a keen focus on promoting work and self-sufficiency. Eligible families receive monthly cash assistance, along with access to job training and employment services. The program is designed to help families meet their basic needs while encouraging a pathway to independence.