Getting started.
Who this helps
People who do not have enough income or resources to meet basic needs may qualify. Maine law sets no minimum length of residency before applying.
How to get started
The City issues a written decision within 24 hours. The decision sheet says whether help was approved or denied and describes any assistance granted.
Apply at the office.
Visit the Portland General Assistance office at 39 Forest Ave, Suite 2, during its application hours.
Apply for each request.
Submit a new application each time you request help.
How they can help.
Approved assistance is issued as a voucher, not cash. The City reviews each request, and people must apply again each time they request help.
- Housing and shelter
- Utilities
- Heating fuel
- Food
- Medical care and prescriptions
A few questions before you go.
Bring identification for household members, proof of income and assets, and bills or receipts for expenses. If you are asking for medicine help, bring the original prescription.
- Which basic costs might General Assistance cover?
- Does where I live affect my eligibility?
- Which records should I bring?
- What happens after I apply?