United States · Official programs
Most “free government money” ads are scams. GrantLane ranks real U.S. programs by how easy they are to apply for — Pell, energy help, food, housing, and a few true business grants — with a direct link to the official site.
Never pay to apply. Real programs live on .gov sites. How to spot a grant scam
Live federal board
Every open Grants.gov opportunity, updated as new notices post.
Step 1 of 4
High approval if you qualify. No essays. No fees.
USA.gov
The official U.S. government screener. Answer a short questionnaire and it points you to federal and state programs you may qualify for — the safest first step before any application.
A personal list of programs
United Way 211
Dial 211 or use 211.org to reach a local specialist who knows which rent, food, utility, and crisis funds are actually open this week. Faster than searching the internet.
Referrals to open local funds
USDA Food and Nutrition Service
Summer EBT / SUN Bucks helps families buy groceries when school meals pause. Many children who already get free or reduced-price school meals are enrolled automatically.
Summer grocery benefits per eligible child
FCC / USAC
A monthly discount on phone or home internet if you are on qualifying benefits or meet the income test. Apply through the National Verifier or a participating company. It is free to apply.
Up to $9.25 / month off phone or internet
Local Community Action Agency (CSBG)
Community Action Agencies sit in almost every county. They run LIHEAP and weatherization intake and often have small emergency funds for rent or utilities. One visit can unlock several programs.
Local aid: rent, utilities, food, weatherization intake
HHS / your state
Helps low-income households pay heating or cooling bills, avoid shutoffs, and sometimes repair a furnace. You apply through your state or local agency — never through a paid middleman.
Often $300–$1,000+