Some of the most useful resources around you are also the easiest to miss. Many people only hear about them by chance from a friend or neighbor. This post covers five everyday resources worth knowing about before you need them. For each one, you’ll find what it is, why it matters, and where to start.
1. 211 helplines
What it is
211 is a free, confidential phone and online service that connects people with local help. When you dial 2-1-1 or visit 211.org, you reach a trained specialist or a searchable directory for your area. It covers most of the United States.
Why it matters
Local services change often, and it can be hard to know who to call. A 211 specialist can point you to food pantries, rent and utility help, child care resources, health clinics, transportation, and support for older adults or caregivers. Instead of calling ten offices, you start with one.
Where to start
- Dial 2-1-1 from most phones, or visit 211.org and enter your ZIP code.
- Have a short list of what you are looking for, such as “food near my home” or “help with a heating bill.”
- Write down the names and numbers you are given so you can follow up later.
2. Your public library card
What it is
A library card is usually free for people who live, work, or go to school in the area. It gives you access to your local library’s books, digital apps, classes, and services.
Why it matters
Today’s libraries offer much more than printed books. Many lend e-books, audiobooks, laptops, and Wi-Fi hotspots. Many also offer job search help, computer classes, English language classes, museum passes, and a quiet place to study or work. Some libraries host free tax help during tax season, too.
Where to start
- Visit your local branch or its website and ask how to sign up.
- Bring a photo ID and something with your address, if you have them. If you don’t, ask staff about other options.
- Ask a librarian which apps and programs your card unlocks.
For a full rundown, read our post on library card perks.
3. Free tax preparation
What it is
Free tax help is available through programs connected to the IRS:
- VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) offers free tax preparation from IRS-certified volunteers for people who meet the program’s income guidelines, people with disabilities, and people with limited English.
- TCE (Tax Counseling for the Elderly) offers free tax help with a focus on people age 60 and older, especially around pensions and retirement questions.
- IRS Free File lets people below a set income level file their federal return online at no cost through trusted partners listed on irs.gov.
Why it matters
Paying for tax preparation can add up. Free programs help you file correctly and on time. Volunteers can also explain tax credits that apply to many working families, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit. The rules for these credits change from year to year, so check irs.gov for the current details.
Where to start
- Visit irs.gov and search for “VITA” or “Free File” to find current options.
- Use the IRS site locator to find a VITA or TCE site near you. Sites often open in late January and can fill up, so it helps to book early.
- Gather your documents ahead of time. Our tax season checklist for families can help.
4. Energy assistance and utility payment plans
What it is
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, often called LIHEAP, is a federally funded program run by states, tribes, and territories. In general, it helps eligible households with heating and cooling costs. Some areas also use it for urgent energy needs or home weatherization.
Separately, many utility companies offer their own options, such as:
- Payment plans that spread a past-due balance over several months
- Budget billing that evens out your monthly bill across the year
- Seasonal protections in some states during very hot or very cold months
Why it matters
Energy costs can swing a lot from season to season. Knowing your options ahead of time can make a winter or summer bill easier to plan for. Many people don’t realize their utility will talk through choices with them. Asking early usually gives you more options than waiting.
Where to start
- Call the customer service number on your utility bill and ask what payment plans or programs are available.
- To learn about LIHEAP in your state, visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families at acf.gov, or call 211.
- Check the eligibility rules on your state’s official site, since each state runs its program a little differently.
Our guide to utility bill assistance basics goes into more detail.
5. School and summer meal programs
What it is
The National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program serve meals at many schools across the country. Some schools serve free meals to every student. In others, families can fill out a form to see whether their children can get free or reduced-price meals.
When school is out, summer meal programs step in. Community sites like parks, libraries, and recreation centers serve meals to kids and teens. In many areas, there are also programs that help families buy groceries during the summer months.
Why it matters
School meals help kids stay focused and energized during the day. They can also make a family’s weekly grocery plan go further. Summer meals fill a gap during the months when school meals aren’t available.
Where to start
- Ask your child’s school office or district website about meal programs and any forms you need to fill out.
- For summer meals, visit the USDA Food and Nutrition Service at fns.usda.gov or call 211 to find sites near you.
- Fill out school meal forms early in the school year, and turn in a new one if your household situation changes.
You can learn more in our guide to food resources for families.
A few tips that apply to all five
- Use official sources. Real programs don’t charge a fee to apply. If someone asks you to pay first, treat it as a red flag.
- Keep a simple contact list. Note names, numbers, and dates when you reach out.
- Check back each year. Programs and rules change, so a yearly check keeps you current.
The bottom line
211, your library card, free tax help, energy assistance, and school and summer meals are five everyday resources that can make household life a little easier. Each one has an official place to start, and none of them should cost you anything to learn about. Pick one that fits your situation right now, take the first small step, and keep this list for later. Knowing where to look is half the work.
This article is for general information only. Program rules, amounts and deadlines change and vary by state, so always check the official source. EverydayBenefitGuide is not affiliated with any government agency.
