by Natasa Shepherd

Created on: September 25, 2009

Many of us are struggling in today's economy. There are government programs that might ease your financial troubles. Even if you don't think that you are eligible it is worth a try. Something is better than nothing after all.
If you are unemployed due to an involuntary loss of a job, such as being laid off or fired due to a lack of work, you are entitled to unemployment benefits. The amount of money you would receive depends upon how much you use to earn while being employed. In order to apply for benefits first register with Michigan works, you can do this online at:

Michworks or in person at your local office, the latter is better as you can get a slip with proof of signing up. The reason this is needed is that some of the conditions of getting the unemployment benefits in Michigan are that you were able and available to work, as well as looking for work. Now take your Michigan Works proof and take it to your local Unemployment Agency office, there you will be assisted in applying for the unemployment benefits. There is a good chance that the unemployment office will be very busy so if you are confident enough you can print out the forms from the Michigan's government website then drop or send them off to the unemployment agency. You can also apply online at UIA.
In case you are not eligible for unemployment benefits or happen to be receiving them already there are other government programs you can try your luck at. Go to your local Department of Human Services to pick up an application. This application will cover an array of benefits such as cash assistance, food stamps, various health coverage options, child care assistance, and more. One application will cover the whole household, it is in form of a booklet and it requires quite a bit of information on everyone that is currently living with you in your house. You might not be eligible for all of the programs covered but it never hurts to try. The health care programs are a bit funky for grown ups but in case where you cannot afford to pay for health care or aren't insured for any other reason, something is better than nothing! For children under nineteen, however, it is a lot better. Their health care is completely covered given that they are eligible. The food stamps, which now come in form of a debit card and are directly deposited onto the card each month are also a great addition. Nearly every store today accepts them and it is money that will definitely be helpful. So take the time to fill out the form, get all of the necessary documents and send it out because it might be very worth it, and if you end up not being eligible it won't hurt you any.

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