COVID-19 Stimulus Checks & Public Benefits Eligibility in Maine
Posted and up-to-date on 4/29/2020
Introduction
Many people who will get a stimulus check under the CARES Act may also receive public benefits. You may be worried about whether getting a stimulus check will change your eligibility for public benefits.
Social Security and COVID-19 FAQ
Up-to-date as of 12/15/2020
Is the Social Security Administration Open?
Yes, but there have been changes because of COVID-19.
Rights of Maine Renters: Heat and Utility Charges for Common Areas
If you live in an apartment building, you may find out that you are paying for heat, lights, or other utilities for "common areas." This includes, for example, hallways, basements, or a common hot water heater or furnace.
It is illegal for your landlord to make you pay those costs alone. For example, the hall lights should not be hooked up to your… More
Rights of Maine Renters: Cable TV, Dishes, and Antennas
If I live in an apartment building, can my landlord stop me from getting cable TV, a satellite dish or an antenna?
Generally, no. Your landlord can only refuse to allow these installations if they have "good cause" to deny that particular company. "Good cause" could be:
How to Handle Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Overpayments
SSI benefits are the benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) that come on the 1st of the month. If SSA finds that you have gotten too much money in your SSI benefit, they will send you a Notice of Overpayment.
Do you owe $500 or more to your electric company?
If you're more than $500 in debt on your electric bill, this program may be able to help you. You pay just your current monthly electric bill, each month and on time. For each month that you pay your current bill, your electric utility company will wipe out 1/12 of what you owe them on your back bill. Learn about how to enroll!
Military Training Qualifying for a Professional License
Are you a veteran considering applying for a Maine Professional license? Your military training may help!
The Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation will consider military training when reviewing applications. This means you may not have to complete certain required training programs.
SSI Eligibility for Immigrants
Immigrants who are not official U.S. citizens may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, if they meet certain qualifications. SSI can help people who are elderly or disabled, and have little or no income.
Benefits for Veterans and Their Families in State & Local Government Jobs
If You or Your Spouse Have Been in the Armed Services You May Get Special Benefits When Applying for a State Job
Maine gives benefits to some former members of the armed services and their spouses. You can get these if you are a veteran, or if your spouse was a veteran and has passed away.
What Happens to Your Job If You Get Called to Active Duty or Required Military Training?
Maine Law
Maine law protects you when you are in the National Guard or the Reserves of the United States Armed Forces and receive orders. When these orders require you to take leave from your job you are provided certain rights. These rights include: