Benefits, Grants and Loans

The government of the United States offers nearly 1,500 programs that are considered to be “discretionary assistance” programs. These programs are considered to be discretionary because unlike other government programs where qualifying citizens are automatically entitled to coverage, people interested in applying for these programs need to make formal application, go through a review process and be approved.

Government benefits, grants and loans come in a variety of forms—from monetary assistance to access to federally owned surplus materials to training and education.

Some benefits are granted on a temporary basis; some once qualified for, continue a lifetime. The groups of people that can apply for government benefits include: individuals; public, private profit and non-profit organizations; U.S. territories and possessions; tribal governments; and, state and local governments.

Grants are normally awarded for a specific purpose, a set length of time and a certain amount of money, although some can be renewed or extended depending on the program. The process of applying for government grants can be tedious and time consuming; a whole industry of professionals who specialize in applying for government grants has emerged because the process is so exacting.

Loans, approved for businesses, state and local governments, organizations and individuals that qualify are intended to be repaid.