24 December 2015
 Categories: , Blog

It can cost an average of $1,170 to move to another in-state residence and $5,630 to move to a different state altogether, according to the American Moving and Storage Association. For low-income families or people living on fixed incomes, it can be very difficult acquiring or saving money to move to new homes. If you are struggling to finance your next move, here are two ways to get help paying moving expenses.

Social Security Insurance

Social Security Insurance is a safety net program that provides benefits to low-income individuals. These benefits usually take the form of a monthly payment sent directly from the federal agency. However, individual states may also provide benefits to SSI recipients depending on the circumstances, and that includes relocation assistance.

The assistance may be limited to people with special needs. For instance, the State Department of Transitional Assistance and Commission for the Blind will pay $150 towards moving expenses for people who are:

• Living in housing that has officially been deemed substandard
• Moving to a new residence because of neighborhood safety issues or health problems
• Moving to housing subsidized by the state or federal government, or
• Required to moved from their current residence for other reasons not previously listed

Other government agencies, such as the Department of Social Services, may offer similar relocation benefits to people drawing SSI. Contact your local Social Security office or the public assistance agency in your area for information about available relocation assistance programs.

Community Organizations

There are a number of organizations that provide financial help to individuals and families in need. The help may come in the form of paying certain bills (e.g. utility, rent) or grants that can be used at the family's discretion.

For instance, Operation Rescue is a program offered by local utility companies. Almost every state participates in it, though it may go by a different name in different states. Residents who use the utility service are taxed a small amount, and the money generated from that tax is placed in a fund that is distributed to individuals and non-profit organizations who need financial assistance. To apply for a grant that may help with moving expenses, submit an application with your local utility company.

Religious organizations and nonprofits that focus on resolving housing issues are other resources that may help you pay your moving expenses. Even if the only help the organization can give is to pay some or all your bills for a month or two, the money that payment frees up can be redirected towards relocation expenses.

For more ideas on where to look for help paying moving expenses or to hire professionals to help you move, contact a moving company or go to websites that discuss the topic.