How much assistance can I get?

The General Assistance Program is regulated by State Law, which has set an overall maximum amount of assistance that a household can receive. In addition, each municipality’s GA guidelines contain maximum amounts of assistance allowable for each category of assistance including, rent, food, electricity, etc. We cannot exceed those established maximums even though household’s expenses for various items may exceed those amounts. To be eligible, your income must fall below the overall maximum level of assistance for a household your size and your income must also be less than the amount you need to pay for basic necessities using City guidelines.

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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?