- Who it's for
- Outside Caregiver
- Child / youth age
- All ages
- Geography
- National
- Action type
- Find Help
- Reading time
- About 4 min
- Last verified
- August 2026
What this is
An orientation to the government's benefits directory, which screens across federal programs and links to the agency that administers each one.
Why it matters
Households often apply for one program and miss three others they were already eligible for. A single screening surfaces the full picture.
What you should know
- The official directory is free and does not require an account to browse.
- Screening results are informational; the administering agency makes eligibility decisions.
- Many programs are administered by the state even when funded federally.
- Household composition matters — report who actually lives with the child.
- Keep copies of every application and confirmation number.
- Never pay a third party to complete a free government application.
Your next step
Run one screening and write down the two programs most relevant to your household.
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