How to Get Help for Bills for Families Dealing With Terminally Ill Children

If your child has been diagnosed with a terminal illness, the last thing you want to think about is how to pay the electric or water bill. Even if you have good medical insurance, you may struggle with other financial demands, especially if you have lost time from work to take care of your child. It's frustrating that while your child is hospitalized, utility companies, auto mechanics, landlords and lenders may still expect payment. At times like these, you may need to request financial assistance.

Instructions

• 1

  Apply for Supplemental Security Income benefits for your child (in the United States). To qualify, your child must be under 18 and disabled with a physical or mental condition that limits activity and that could last at least one year or result in death, according to the Social Security Administration's website. Also, your child must have little or no income and resources, and the family's income and resources are also considered. Call SSA at 800-772-1213 to apply.

• 2

  Speak to your child's hospital or convalescent home social worker. Ask for referrals to agencies assisting families of terminally ill children.

• 3

  Seek help from foundations dedicated to the illness. For example, if your child has a specific type of cancer, find an organization focused upon that cancer. Call the organization and ask for financial assistance information.

• 4

  Accept offers from anyone willing to help. If someone says, "Let me know if you need anything," chances are they mean "anything" and will do anything they can to help. Don't be afraid to ask close friends and family members for financial help, especially when they offer.

• 5

  Seek help from your church, synagogue or other faith-based organization. Ask about its benevolence program. Discuss the possibility of the church holding a fund-raiser.

• 6

  Approach utility companies and other services expecting payment. Explain your situation with your child's illness and ask about hardship programs, payment arrangements or extensions.