What is General Assistance?

General assistance (GA) is a program available in each municipality in Maine to help eligible people who do not have enough money to cover basic living costs. It provides confidential financial assistance to Biddeford residents who are having difficulty meeting basic needs such as rent, food, electricity, personal and household supplies, medication, heating fuel, and other essential services.  You must apply for General Assistance it city or town that you are a resident.



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1. What is General Assistance?
2. Where does the money come from?
3. Do I have to be a Biddeford resident?
4. How can I apply?
5. What if I have an emergency and City Hall is closed?
6. How long does it take to apply?
7. What information will I need when I apply?
8. Is the information I give on my application kept confidential?
9. If I receive Food Stamps, TANF, Social Security, Veterans Benefits, Unemployment or Worker’s Compensation am I still able to receive General Assistance?
10. When will I get help?
11. How much assistance can I get?
12. Will General Assistance pay security deposits?
13. If I am eligible will I get cash or a check?
14. How long can I continue to get help?
15. What would cause me to be ineligible or disqualified from the General Assistance Program?