Do I Qualify for Government Benefits?

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Find Out Quickly With MyFriendBen!

MyFriendBen is a tool that can help you understand which government benefits, programs and tax credits you’re eligible for. On average, in six (6) minutes, you will know the cash value of those programs and the time it takes to apply so you can quickly decide what’s right for you.

Click on the MyFriendBen logo or button below to get started.

my friend ben

Find out what benefits you're eligible for

Frequently Asked Questions About MyFriendBen

Have questions about MyFriendBen? We're here to support you! Review frequently asked questions about MyFriendBen by interacting with the accordions below.

What government benefits, nonprofit programs and tax credits are on MyFriendBen?

You can check your eligibility and get a cash value for more than 50 programs on MyFriendBen. These include:

  • Internet and phone discounts
  • Train and bus discounts
  • Help with heating bills
  • Social Security disability benefits
  • Free afterschool activities
  • Cash assistance
  • Food assistance (SNAP)
  • Child care and preschool assistance
  • Health insurance and health care

Why should I use MyFriendBen?

You might be looking for support, and you aren’t sure where to start. You also might want to know if applying for benefits is worth the time and effort. MyFriendBen gives you a “snapshot” of the cash value of benefits that you could qualify for. It could also connect you to new programs or benefits you haven’t heard about!

How do I use MyFriendBen?

Click on the MyFriendBen button on the DHS website to get started. Select your preferred language, then press the “Get Started” button to begin. You will then be asked some basic questions about where you live, the number of people in your household, your income, health insurance, living expenses, and more.

Is MyFriendBen anonymous?

Yes, it’s anonymous. You don’t need to share any personally identifiable information to use MyFriendBen. You do have the option to provide contact information to be notified when you qualify for new benefits.

 

Is it safe to use MyFriendBen?

Yes! MyFriendBen is a vetted, safe and secure website. Denver Human Services (DHS) is working with MyFriendBen. It was built by Gary Community Ventures, which is a Denver-based philanthropic organization serving Coloradans. They co-designed the tool with families, and continually improves it alongside 100+ community partners.

Does MyFriendBen ask about immigration status?

No. On the results page, users can filter to see benefits that are available based on different types of immigration status.

 

I am a non-English speaker. Can I use MyFriendBen?

Yes! You can use MyFriendBen in 11 languages: English, Spanish, Vietnamese, French, Amharic, Soomaali, Russian, Nepali, Burmese, Chinese, and Arabic.

I am a Newcomer (migrant / new American). How can MyFriendBen help me?

You may still find MyFriendBen helpful if you are a Newcomer. However, the tool is designed to connect to longer-term programs that support stability. It is not best suited to support people in crisis or with urgent needs. If you are a Newcomer, visit the City and County of Denver’s Newcomers website to learn more about programs that you may qualify for.

I am experiencing homelessness. How can MyFriendBen help me?

While MyFriendBen can be helpful for anyone, the tool is designed to connect to longer-term programs that support stability. It is not best suited to support people in crisis or with urgent needs. If you are experiencing homelessness, visit Colorado 2-1-1 to find resources in your community, including food assistance, and housing and shelter.