Programs for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
A Practical Guide to Programs for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
Last updated: August 2025
If You Need Emergency Help
Crisis situations require immediate attention. Contact these resources right away:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (24/7)
- Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (24/7)
- 211: Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency assistance, shelter, food, and utility help
- Emergency SNAP: Contact your local Department of Social Services for emergency food assistance
- Emergency TANF: Apply for immediate cash assistance through your state’s TANF office
If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.
Key Takeaways
- 6.8 million grandparents currently live with their grandchildren, with about 2.3 million serving as primary caregivers
- Multiple programs exist to help with food, housing, healthcare, childcare, and cash assistance
- Income limits vary by program – some use only the child’s income, not yours
- Legal guardianship often increases available benefits but isn’t always required
- Applying early is crucial as some programs have waiting lists
- Free help exists for navigating programs through Kinship Navigators
Understanding Your Options: Main Categories of Help
| Program Type | What It Covers | Based On |
|---|---|---|
| Cash Assistance | Monthly payments for living expenses | Child’s income (usually) |
| Food Programs | Groceries, baby formula, school meals | Household income |
| Healthcare | Medical, dental, vision coverage | Child’s income (usually) |
| Housing | Rent assistance, utilities | Household income |
| Childcare | Daycare, after-school programs | Household income |
Federal Programs Available Nationwide
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
What it does: Provides monthly cash payments to help cover basic needs like rent, utilities, and clothing.
Two types of TANF for grandparents:
- Family TANF: Includes your income in calculations
- Child-Only TANF: Based only on the child’s income (better option for most grandparents)
Typical benefits: $100-$500 per child monthly (varies by state)
Who qualifies: Children under 18 in families with very low income. Each state sets its own rules.
How to apply: Contact your state’s Department of Human Services office or visit ACF.HHS.gov
| Income Level | Family TANF | Child-Only TANF |
|---|---|---|
| Very Low | Eligible | Eligible |
| Low to Moderate | May not qualify | Often still eligible |
| Higher Income | Won’t qualify | May still qualify |
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
What it does: Provides monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries. Covers most foods including fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and bread.
Current benefits (2025): Maximum monthly amounts by household size:
- 1 person: $291
- 2 people: $535
- 3 people: $766
- 4 people: $973
- Each additional person: Add $207
Who qualifies: Households with gross income below 130% of federal poverty level ($2,430/month for a family of 3 in 2025).
Special rule for grandparents: If you’re only caring for grandchildren (no parents in home), only the children’s income counts.
How to apply: Contact your local SNAP office or apply online through your state’s website. Find your state office at FNS.USDA.gov
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
What it covers: Free healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and health screenings for pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children up to age 5.
Who qualifies:
- Pregnant women
- Mothers up to 6 months after birth (1 year if breastfeeding)
- Infants and children under 5
- Income at or below 185% of federal poverty level ($4,086/month for family of 3 in 2025)
Automatic qualification: If you receive SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF, you’re automatically income-eligible for WIC.
How to apply: Find your local WIC clinic at FNS.USDA.gov/wic
Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
What it covers: Free or low-cost healthcare including doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, dental, and vision care.
Who qualifies:
- Medicaid: Income up to 138% of federal poverty level (varies by state)
- CHIP: Income up to 200-300% of federal poverty level (varies by state)
Special for grandchildren: Often based on child’s income only, not grandparent’s income.
How to apply:
- Online at HealthCare.gov
- By phone: 1-800-318-2596
- Through your state Medicaid office
Social Security Benefits for Children
Survivor Benefits: If a grandchild’s parent died and worked long enough, the child may qualify for monthly payments up to $1,500 or more.
SSI for Children: Monthly payments for children with disabilities from low-income families.
How to apply: Visit SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213
State-Specific Programs
Kinship Care Support
Many states offer additional help specifically for grandparents and relatives raising children:
| State Examples | Program Features |
|---|---|
| Illinois | Respite care, legal assistance, support groups, emergency funds |
| Kentucky | Financial assistance up to 150% of poverty level |
| North Carolina | Unlicensed Kinship Payment Program for foster children |
| Massachusetts | Commission on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren |
Subsidized Guardianship
What it does: Monthly payments to relatives who become legal guardians of children who were previously in foster care.
Typical payments: $400-$800 per child monthly
Requirement: Must become legal guardian through court process
Available in: Most states (contact your local child welfare office)
Housing and Utility Assistance
Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)
What it does: Helps pay rent in private housing. You typically pay 30% of income toward rent.
Important note: Adding grandchildren to your household can increase your voucher amount and improve your priority for assistance.
How to apply: Contact your local Public Housing Agency at HUD.gov
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
What it covers: Help paying heating and cooling bills, energy emergencies, weatherization.
Who qualifies: Households at or below 150% of federal poverty level
How to apply: Contact your state LIHEAP office at ACF.HHS.gov/oca/programs/liheap
Childcare and Educational Support
| Program | Age Range | Income Limit | What’s Covered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Care Assistance (CCAP) | 0-12 years | Varies by state | Daycare, after-school care |
| Head Start | 3-5 years | Below poverty level | Preschool, health services |
| School Breakfast/Lunch | School age | Up to 185% poverty | Free or reduced-price meals |
| Summer Food Programs | Under 18 | No income limit | Free meals during summer |
Free and Reduced School Meals
Income guidelines (2024-25 school year):
- Free meals: Income below 130% of poverty level
- Reduced-price meals: Income between 130-185% of poverty level
How to apply: Contact your child’s school or school district
Tax Benefits That Can Help
Child Tax Credit
Amount: Up to $2,000 per qualifying child under 17
Income limits: Credit phases out for incomes over $200,000 (single) or $400,000 (married)
How to claim: When filing your tax return if child lived with you more than half the year
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
Maximum amounts (2024):
- 1 child: $3,995
- 2 children: $6,604
- 3+ children: $7,430
Who qualifies: Working grandparents with low to moderate income
Child and Dependent Care Credit
Amount: 20-35% of childcare expenses (up to $3,000 for one child, $6,000 for two or more)
Who qualifies: Working grandparents paying for childcare
Head of Household Filing Status
Benefit: Higher standard deduction and lower tax rates
Who qualifies: Unmarried grandparents supporting dependent grandchildren
Legal Considerations and Requirements
Types of Legal Arrangements
| Arrangement | Benefits | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Informal Care | Quick, no court involved | Limited access to benefits |
| Legal Guardianship | Full parental rights, more benefits | Court process, home study |
| Custody | Parental rights, benefits access | Court process, legal fees |
| Adoption | Permanent, all benefits, tax credits | Lengthy process, terminates parent rights |
When Legal Status Matters
You need legal authority to:
- Enroll children in school
- Make medical decisions
- Apply for many government benefits
- Travel with children
- Get copies of important documents
Getting legal help: Contact your local legal aid office at LawHelp.org or call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116
Special Resources for Diverse Communities
LGBTQ+ Seniors
Unique challenges: May face discrimination, have less family support, need LGBTQ+-affirming services.
Resources:
- SAGE (Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders): National organization providing support and advocacy (sageusa.org)
- National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging: Information and referrals (lgbtagingcenter.org)
- AARP LGBTQ+ Community Caregiving Guide: Practical guidance for caregiving plans
Finding affirming services: Look for providers with LGBTQ+ cultural competency training.
Veteran Seniors
Special benefits for veterans:
- VA healthcare may cover grandchildren in some cases
- LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinators at every VA facility
- Caregiver support programs through VA
- Discharge upgrade assistance for veterans discharged due to sexual orientation
Contact: Your local VA Medical Center or call 1-877-222-8387
Important: Veterans discharged “Other Than Honorable” for sexual orientation may now be eligible for benefits.
Disabled Seniors
Additional support available:
- Social Security Disability (SSDI) may continue while caring for grandchildren
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for low-income disabled grandparents
- Medicaid often covers more services for disabled individuals
- Respite care to give disabled caregivers breaks
Accessibility needs: Request accommodations when applying for programs (sign language interpreters, accessible offices, etc.)
Tribal Communities and Native American Families
Special considerations:
- Higher rates of grandparent caregiving in Native communities
- Tribal TANF programs may have different rules than state programs
- Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) provides protections for Native children
- Bureau of Indian Affairs social services
Resources:
- Contact your tribal social services department
- National Indian Child Welfare Association: Training and resources
- Administration for Native Americans: Federal programs specifically for Native communities
Rural Seniors
Common challenges:
- Limited public transportation
- Fewer service providers
- Longer distances to offices
- Limited internet access
Solutions:
- Mobile service units that come to rural areas
- Telephone applications instead of in-person visits
- Community organizations like rural churches and community centers
- Transportation vouchers from some programs
- Telehealth services for medical care
Rural-specific resources:
- USDA Rural Development: Housing and utility assistance
- Rural Health Clinics: Healthcare in underserved areas
- Cooperative Extension: Family support programs
Resources by Region
Northeast States
- Massachusetts: Commission on Status of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
- New York: Strong kinship care support programs
- Pennsylvania: Robust TANF child-only grants
Southeast States
- North Carolina: Kinship Foster Care and Guardianship Assistance Program
- Georgia: Division of Child Support Services assistance
- Louisiana: Grandparents Link program through DCFS
Midwest States
- Illinois: Department on Aging Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Program
- Ohio: Kinship Payment Initiative
- Michigan: Strong relative caregiver support
Western States
- Colorado: Kinship Navigator programs
- California: Approved Relative Caregiver funding
- Arizona: Duet Partners for Health and Aging grandfamily support
Common Challenges and Reality Checks
Financial Strains
Reality: Most benefit amounts won’t cover all expenses. The average TANF payment is only $300-400 per child monthly.
Strategy: Combine multiple programs. A family might receive TANF ($400), SNAP ($300), WIC ($50 value), and Medicaid (saves $200+ monthly).
Application Complexity
Reality: Each program has different applications, requirements, and renewal dates.
Help available:
- Kinship Navigators in many areas provide free help
- 211 can connect you to local assistance
- Legal aid offices help with complex cases
Long Wait Times
Reality: Some programs have waiting lists, especially housing assistance.
Strategy: Apply for everything you might qualify for, even if wait lists exist. Your situation can change, and priority may be given to families with children.
Documentation Requirements
Common documents needed:
- Social Security cards for all household members
- Birth certificates for children
- Proof of income (yours and parents’)
- Proof of residency
- Medical records (for some programs)
Tip: Keep copies of all documents in a safe place and bring originals to appointments.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Gather Information
- List all household members and ages
- Collect income information for past 3 months
- Gather required documents
- Note any special circumstances (disabilities, medical conditions)
Step 2: Start with Screening Tools
- Use Benefits.gov screening tool to see what you might qualify for
- Contact 211 for local program information
- Visit your state’s benefits website
Step 3: Apply for Core Programs First
- TANF (cash assistance)
- SNAP (food assistance)
- Medicaid/CHIP (healthcare)
- WIC (if children under 5)
Step 4: Follow Up on Housing and Childcare
- Apply for housing assistance (long wait times)
- Contact Head Start programs
- Look into local childcare assistance
Step 5: Explore Additional Support
- Contact Kinship Navigator if available
- Look into local food banks and charities
- Connect with grandparent support groups
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to adopt my grandchildren to get help?
No. Many programs are available without adoption. However, legal guardianship or custody often increases available benefits and gives you important legal rights.
Will applying for benefits affect my grandchildren’s parents?
It depends. For child-only TANF and most programs based on the child’s income, the parents’ situation doesn’t affect benefits. However, some programs may require cooperation with child support enforcement.
Can I get help if I’m working?
Yes. Most programs have income limits that allow working families to qualify. SNAP, Medicaid, and childcare assistance often have higher income limits for working families.
What if my income is too high for some programs?
Try these strategies:
- Apply for child-only versions of programs
- Look for programs with higher income limits
- Check if your state has expanded eligibility rules
- Apply anyway – rules change and you might qualify later
How long do benefits last?
Varies by program:
- TANF: Usually limited to 60 months lifetime, but child-only grants may be longer
- SNAP: As long as you qualify
- Medicaid: As long as you qualify
- WIC: Until child turns 5
- Housing assistance: As long as you qualify
Can I apply if I’m not a U.S. citizen?
Some programs yes, others no:
- WIC: Immigration status doesn’t matter
- SNAP: Citizens and qualified immigrants only
- TANF: Citizens and qualified immigrants only
- Medicaid: Varies by state, emergency Medicaid available for all
What if I live in a different state than where the children lived before?
You can apply in the state where you currently live. You don’t need to live there for a certain amount of time first.
How do I prove the children live with me?
Acceptable proof:
- School enrollment records
- Medical records listing your address
- Letter from school or doctor
- Sworn statement from neighbor or community member
What if the children’s parents come back?
Your benefits may change depending on the living situation. Contact your caseworker immediately if household composition changes.
Can grandchildren get Social Security based on my work record?
Usually no. Social Security benefits for grandchildren are typically based on deceased or disabled parents’ work records, not grandparents’. However, if you adopted them, they might qualify on your record.
Warning Signs and Red Flags
Avoid Benefit Scams
Red flags:
- Anyone asking for money upfront to apply for benefits
- Promises to get you benefits you don’t qualify for
- Requests for your Social Security number over the phone from unknown callers
- “Guaranteed approval” claims
Remember: All legitimate government benefit applications are free.
Managing Family Relationships
Reality check: Taking care of grandchildren often creates family tension. Common issues:
- Conflict with adult children about visitation
- Disagreements about parenting decisions
- Financial stress on marriage or partnership
- Isolation from friends and activities
Support available:
- Support groups for grandparents raising grandchildren
- Family counseling services
- Respite care programs
- Online communities and forums
Financial Planning Concerns
Important considerations:
- Using retirement savings for child expenses
- Impact on your own healthcare needs
- Long-term financial security
- College planning for grandchildren
Get help: Consider consulting with a financial advisor who understands family situations.
Resources and Contacts
National Organizations
Generations United
- Website: gu.org
- Phone: 202-289-3979
- Services: Advocacy, information, resources for grandfamilies
Grandfamilies & Kinship Support Network
- Website: gksnetwork.org
- Services: Technical assistance, resources, training
AARP Grandfamilies Guide
- Website: aarp.org/grandfamilies
- Phone: 1-888-687-2277
- Services: Information, support, advocacy
Government Resources
Benefits.gov
- Website: benefits.gov
- Services: Benefit screening tool, program information
Administration for Community Living
- Website: acl.gov
- Phone: 202-401-4634
- Services: Policy guidance, resources
National 211 Service
- Dial: 2-1-1
- Website: 211.org
- Services: Local referrals, emergency assistance
Legal Assistance
Legal Services Corporation
- Website: lsc.gov
- Services: Find local legal aid offices
National Legal Aid & Defender Association
- Website: nlada.org
- Services: Legal assistance directory
Eldercare Locator
- Phone: 1-800-677-1116
- Website: eldercare.acl.gov
- Services: Legal services referrals
About This Guide
Researched and Compiled by Grants for Seniors
This guide has been carefully researched using publicly available government resources and official program websites. We systematically review federal and state program information to create comprehensive, accurate guides for older Americans seeking grant opportunities.
Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (HHS, USDA, SSA, CMS), state government departments, official program documentation, and verified nonprofit organization resources.
Verification Process: Each program listing undergoes thorough online verification by cross-referencing information across multiple official sources, checking current program status, verifying contact information, and confirming eligibility requirements and deadlines.
Information Currency:
- Last Updated: August 2025
- Sources Verified: August 2025
- Next Review: February 2026
Important Note: Government programs can change without advance notice. While this guide uses the most current available information, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with program administrators before applying.
Found an Error? If you discover outdated information or additional programs that should be included, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Always confirm program details with official sources before applying.
This resource is independently researched to help seniors access available financial assistance programs.