Benefits college students often miss

Being a student doesn't rule you out of public help. Many students qualify for food assistance, a cheaper phone or internet plan, tax credits worth up to thousands of dollars, free tax filing, health coverage and child care help. Here's how each one works, from official sources.

The benefits

Food assistance (SNAP)SNAP puts money for groceries on a card every month, and many college students qualify through a student exemption even though the general rule shuts most students out.
Phone and internet (Lifeline)Lifeline is a federal program that knocks up to $9.25 a month off a phone or internet bill, and you can qualify just by being on SNAP or Medicaid or having low income.
Education tax creditsTwo IRS tax credits pay back part of what you spend on college, and the American Opportunity credit can put up to $1,000 in your pocket even if you owe no tax (unless the under-24 rule applies to you).
Free tax filingMost students can file their federal tax return for free through IRS Free File or get it done free by an IRS-certified volunteer, so there is no reason to pay a tax service to claim a refund.
Health coverageStudents have more health coverage options than they think: a parent's plan until 26, free or low-cost Medicaid in many states, or a Marketplace plan with savings, even if the school offers its own student plan.
Child care for student parentsStudent parents can get help paying for child care through campus programs funded by the federal CCAMPIS grant and through their state's child care subsidy, which can count going to school as a reason you need care.

Your state's programs

Each state runs these under its own names, with its own rules and application.

We explain programs; government agencies decide who gets them. Always check the official page before you apply. Spot something wrong? Tell us.