Government grants are financial awards that do not require repayment. Vermont residents can access multiple assistance programs to help cover housing costs, energy bills, education expenses, workforce training, and essential living needs. The state distributes over $2.16 billion in federal and state grant funding annually across business, education, housing, veteran, and personal assistance categories.
These programs target low-income families, seniors, disabled individuals, veterans, and first-time homebuyers who meet specific income and residency requirements. Vermont’s Department for Children and Families administers many assistance programs through the myBenefits portal, which provides a centralized application system for residents.
Key Takeaways
Vermont offers housing grants, energy assistance, education funding, workforce training grants, and specialized support for seniors, disabled individuals, families, and veterans
Most programs require household income at or below 185% to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level
Applications can be submitted online through myBenefits.vermont.gov, in person at local district offices, or by calling 1-800-479-6151
LIHEAP energy assistance provides average benefits of $1,035 per household for heating costs
Vermont grants do not require repayment, unlike loans or credit-based programs
Types of Government Grants Available in Vermont
Vermont provides financial assistance across multiple categories to address housing, energy, education, workforce development, and family support needs.
Housing and Homeownership Assistance
Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA) offers specialized programs for first-time and first-generation homebuyers. The First Generation Program provides grants exclusively to applicants whose parents never owned a home, lost a home to foreclosure, or who spent time in foster care. Eligible borrowers must have less than $30,000 in combined liquid assets and meet income requirements.
The USDA Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program assists rural homebuyers with income-eligibility requirements that typically range from $72,000 to $96,000 for a two-person household, varying by county. Homes must serve as primary residences and be located in eligible rural areas.
Energy and Utility Assistance
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps Vermont households pay heating and cooling costs. In Federal Fiscal Year 2025, LIHEAP served 16,296 households and disbursed $16.86 million in funds, with an average benefit of $1,035 per household. The program offers Seasonal Fuel Benefits for households at or below 185% of Federal Poverty Income Guidelines and Crisis Fuel assistance for emergencies up to 200% of poverty guidelines.
Green Mountain Power operates two energy assistance programs: the Energy Assistance Program for customers with household income at or below 185% of federal poverty level, and Power Partners for customers who received disconnection notices.
Education and Workforce Training
The Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC) administers the Vermont Grant, providing free educational funding for college and career training. The Green Mountain Job Readiness Program (GMJRP) offers up to $5,000 in loan repayment assistance for Vermont college graduates working full-time for Vermont-based companies.
The Vermont Training Program (VTP), managed by the Agency of Commerce and Community Development, provides performance-based workforce training grants to employers. VTP covers up to 50% of training costs for new and incumbent employees, with reimbursement upon training completion. In FY 2024, small businesses received 22% of total VTP funds, totaling $389,980.
The Workforce Education and Training Fund, administered by the Vermont Department of Labor, covers some or all training costs for incumbent workers in critical jobs.
Family and Child Care Support
The Vermont Department for Children and Families offers multiple childcare funding programs. Special Accommodation Grants (SAG) support inclusion of children in licensed specialized childcare programs. The Extraordinary Financial Relief program assists childcare centers at imminent risk of closure in high-poverty areas. Make Way for Kids increases infant and toddler capacity at childcare programs.
Reach Up provides cash assistance and job training to low-income parents with minor children, helping them gain employment skills.
3SquaresVT (Vermont’s food assistance program) provides benefits for households with net income equal to or less than 185% of Federal Poverty Level.
Veteran and Senior Assistance
The Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs administers the Vermont Veteran Assistance Fund, providing one-time payments up to $500 for veterans or their families experiencing financial crisis and needing help with housing and utilities. Applications are processed over the phone in approximately 10 minutes and require Vermont residency.
The Green Mountain Passport provides free admission to Vermont State Parks for seniors and veterans, though overnight camping and amenities require separate fees. Veterans with PTSD can receive assistance through Friends of Veterans to secure fully trained service dogs.
Small Business Grants
Vermont offers small business grants to reduce financial risks, particularly important given that over 1,697 businesses file for bankruptcy annually in the state.
| Grant Category | Purpose | Eligibility Focus | Key Agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing Grants | First-time homebuyer assistance, rural homeownership | Income limits $72,000-$96,000 (2-person household), primary residence requirement | VHFA, USDA |
| LIHEAP Energy Assistance | Heating and cooling cost support | 185%-200% of Federal Poverty Level | Dept. for Children and Families |
| Vermont Grant | College and career training tuition | Vermont residents pursuing higher education | VSAC |
| Vermont Training Program | Workforce skill development | Employers training full-time benefited employees | Dept. of Economic Development |
| Reach Up | Cash assistance and job training | Low-income parents with minor children | Dept. for Children and Families |
| 3SquaresVT | Food purchasing assistance | Net income ≤185% Federal Poverty Level | Dept. for Children and Families |
| Veteran Assistance Fund | Emergency financial relief | Vermont veterans in financial crisis | Office of Veterans Affairs |
Who Is Eligible for Vermont Government Grants
Eligibility requirements vary by program but generally focus on income levels, residency status, and household composition.
Income-Based Eligibility
Most Vermont assistance programs use Federal Poverty Level (FPL) percentages to determine eligibility. For 2025-2026, LIHEAP seasonal fuel benefits require household income at or below 185% FPL, while crisis fuel assistance extends to 200% FPL.
3SquaresVT requires net household income equal to or less than 185% of Federal Poverty Level based on household size. Green Mountain Power’s Energy Assistance Program uses the same 185% threshold.
| Household Size | 185% FPL Gross Monthly Income | 200% FPL Gross Monthly Income |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | Varies by program | Varies by program |
| 2 people | Approximately $83,000 annually (homebuyer programs) | Up to $96,000 annually (USDA rural) |
| Income threshold details | Used for LIHEAP, 3SquaresVT, energy assistance | Used for LIHEAP crisis assistance |
Residency Requirements
Applicants must be Vermont residents with valid citizenship documentation (green card) or permanent resident certificates. The Vermont Veteran Assistance Fund specifically requires Vermont residency for eligibility.
USDA housing loans require properties to serve as primary residences and be located in eligible rural areas within Vermont.
Priority Groups
First-generation homebuyers receive specialized assistance if their parents never owned a home, lost a home to foreclosure, or if the applicant spent time in foster care. Reach Up specifically targets low-income parents with minor children.
Vermont Training Program prioritizes small businesses with 50 or fewer employees, which received 22% of total funds in FY 2024. The program focuses on upskilling, credentials, and registered apprenticeships.
Veterans experiencing PTSD qualify for service dog assistance, and those in financial crisis can access emergency funds. Seniors and disabled individuals over age 60 or living with disabilities can use simplified application processes for 3SquaresVT.
How to Apply for Government Grants in Vermont
Vermont offers multiple application channels to accommodate different accessibility needs and program types.
Online Application Portal
The myBenefits portal (myBenefits.vermont.gov) serves as Vermont’s centralized online application system. Residents can apply for 3SquaresVT, Fuel Assistance, and other Department for Children and Families programs through a single account.
Seniors over age 60 and individuals with disabilities without earned income can use a simplified application process that reduces paperwork requirements.
Phone and In-Person Applications
Applicants can call the Benefits Service Center at 1-800-479-6151 to request paper applications or receive assistance. Reach Up applications are processed through this number.
Vermont Veteran Assistance Fund applications are completed over the phone in approximately 10 minutes. Applicants must provide detailed income and expense information during the call.
In-person applications can be submitted at local DCF Economic Services Division offices throughout Vermont. LIHEAP crisis fuel assistance requires in-person applications at Community Action Agencies.
Application Steps
| Step | Action Required | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Determine Eligibility | Check income limits and program requirements | Use Federal Poverty Level guidelines for your household size |
| 2. Gather Documentation | Collect income records, residency proof, household information | Include citizenship documents, pay stubs, utility bills |
| 3. Create myBenefits Account | Register at myBenefits.vermont.gov | Single portal for multiple assistance programs |
| 4. Complete Application | Fill out program-specific forms | Simplified forms available for seniors and disabled individuals |
| 5. Submit Supporting Documents | Upload or mail required verification | Income statements, expenses, household composition details |
| 6. Await Processing | Wait for eligibility determination | LIHEAP awards average $1,035; processing times vary by program |
Program-Specific Application Processes
Vermont Training Program requires employers to contact [email protected] or call 802-355-2725 to request workforce training funds. Workforce Education and Training Fund applications go through [email protected] or 802-828-4393.
VHFA First Generation Program grants are available exclusively with VHFA loan programs (MOVE, MOVE MCC, and ADVANTAGE when available) and require working with participating lenders.
Green Mountain Power’s Power Partners program requires customers to call 1-888-835-4672 before the first disconnection date on their disconnect notice.
Benefits and Limitations of Government Grants
Understanding what grants cover and their restrictions helps applicants set realistic expectations and plan effectively.
What Grants Help Pay For
LIHEAP covers home heating oil, natural gas, electricity, propane, wood, and other approved heating fuels. The average seasonal fuel benefit of $1,035 can significantly reduce winter heating costs for eligible households.
3SquaresVT provides electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards for purchasing food at retail grocery stores and farmers markets. Benefits are calculated based on household size and net income.
Housing grants assist with down payments, closing costs, and mortgage qualification for first-time and first-generation buyers. These programs reduce upfront homeownership barriers without creating additional debt.
Vermont Training Program reimburses employers for 50% of customized training costs, including on-the-job training, classroom instruction, and specialized skill development. The program supports technical training, management skills, supervisory roles, and leadership development.
Vermont Veteran Assistance Fund provides one-time payments up to $500 for critical needs such as housing and utilities during financial emergencies.
Common Restrictions
Income limits strictly determine eligibility and must be documented. Households exceeding 185% or 200% of Federal Poverty Level (depending on program) do not qualify for most assistance programs.
LIHEAP year-round eligibility requires households to have a heating liability. The program serves households based on fuel need and income verification.
Vermont Training Program funds are typically depleted by the end of February each year. Grants are paid on a reimbursement basis upon training completion, not as upfront payments.
VHFA First Generation Program requires all borrowers and non-borrowing spouses to be true first-time homebuyers with less than $30,000 in combined liquid assets.
Power Partners from Green Mountain Power can only be used once per calendar year.
What Grants Do Not Cover
Vermont’s state government does not offer personal grants for individual needs such as debt consolidation or vehicle financing. Grants must serve a public purpose or stimulate Vermont’s economy.
Reach Up and 3SquaresVT do not provide direct cash for discretionary spending. Benefits are restricted to food purchases (3SquaresVT) or linked to job training requirements (Reach Up).
LIHEAP does not cover past-due balances accumulated before program enrollment. The program addresses current heating season needs within annual funding limits.
Vermont Training Program does not cover training for part-time employees or those without benefits. The program focuses exclusively on full-time, benefited employees.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Avoiding these errors increases approval chances and speeds up processing times.
Incomplete Applications
Missing documentation causes application delays or denials. Vermont Veteran Assistance Fund requires detailed income and expense information during the phone application. Applicants should prepare financial records before calling to ensure accurate reporting.
VHFA First Generation Program applications must include documentation proving parents never owned property or lost homes to foreclosure. Without proper verification, applications cannot proceed.
myBenefits portal applications require uploading proof of income, residency, and household composition. Incomplete uploads delay benefit determinations.
Missed Deadlines
Vermont Training Program funding typically depletes by late February. Employers waiting until spring or summer miss annual allocation opportunities.
Power Partners requires calling Green Mountain Power before the first disconnection date printed on disconnect notices. Calling after disconnection occurs eliminates program eligibility.
LIHEAP operates on a federal fiscal year cycle. Applying early in the heating season ensures funding availability before annual allocations are exhausted.
Confusing Grants with Loans
Government grants do not require repayment, unlike loans or credit-based assistance. Many Vermont programs provide free financial aid that does not create debt obligations.
USDA housing loans are actual loans (not grants) backed by the USDA but issued by local mortgage lenders. These require repayment with interest according to loan terms.
Vermont Training Program provides grants (not loans) to employers, but operates on reimbursement. Employers pay training costs upfront and receive 50% reimbursement upon completion. This differs from grants that provide funds before expenses occur.
Applying to Wrong Programs
Reach Up requires applicants to have minor children. Single adults without children do not qualify regardless of income level.
3SquaresVT defines households as everyone living at the same address covered by the same utility bill, including roommates. Other programs define households differently, so applicants must understand program-specific definitions.
Green Mountain Power Energy Assistance only serves Green Mountain Power customers. Residents with other electric providers must seek assistance through their specific utility company.
Conclusion
Vermont offers comprehensive financial assistance through housing grants, energy programs, education funding, workforce training, and specialized support for families, veterans, and vulnerable populations. Most programs require household income at or below 185% to 200% of Federal Poverty Level and Vermont residency. The myBenefits portal at myBenefits.vermont.gov provides centralized access to multiple assistance programs, while phone applications are available at 1-800-479-6151. Grants do not require repayment and serve residents facing financial challenges across housing, utilities, education, and essential needs. Understanding eligibility requirements, gathering complete documentation, and applying before funding depletion dates maximizes approval chances and ensures timely assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if my income qualifies for Vermont government grants?
Most Vermont assistance programs use Federal Poverty Level (FPL) percentages to determine eligibility. LIHEAP and 3SquaresVT require household income at or below 185% of FPL, while LIHEAP crisis assistance extends to 200% of FPL. Income limits vary by household size, so check specific program guidelines or contact the Benefits Service Center at 1-800-479-6151 for personalized eligibility screening.
Can I apply for multiple Vermont grant programs at the same time?
Yes, Vermont residents can apply for multiple assistance programs simultaneously. The myBenefits portal allows applicants to submit applications for 3SquaresVT and Fuel Assistance using the same application. Eligibility for one program often indicates qualification for others with similar income thresholds.
What documents do I need to apply for Vermont housing assistance?
VHFA First Generation Program requires proof that parents never owned property, lost a home to foreclosure, or documentation of foster care placement. Applicants must also show less than $30,000 in combined liquid assets and meet income requirements. USDA housing loans require income verification typically ranging from $72,000 to $96,000 for two-person households, varying by county.
How long does it take to receive LIHEAP energy assistance benefits?
Processing times vary, but applicants should not wait for award letters to arrive before seeking assistance. Vermont operates year-round eligibility for LIHEAP, so households with heating liability and income below 185% FPL can qualify for Seasonal Fuel Benefits. The average benefit is $1,035 per household.
Do Vermont government grants need to be repaid?
No, government grants do not require repayment, unlike loans or credit programs. Programs like 3SquaresVT, LIHEAP, Vermont Grant, and Reach Up provide free financial assistance. However, USDA housing programs are loans (not grants) that require repayment with interest.
Who can I contact if I need help applying for Vermont grants?
Call the Benefits Service Center at 1-800-479-6151 for assistance with Reach Up, 3SquaresVT, and other Department for Children and Families programs. For LIHEAP crisis assistance, contact local Community Action Agencies. Vermont Veteran Assistance Fund applications are completed by phone in approximately 10 minutes. Age Well’s Helpline at 1-800-642-5119 assists seniors with 3SquaresVT and benefit applications.
Are Vermont veterans eligible for special grant programs?
Yes, the Vermont Veteran Assistance Fund provides one-time payments up to $500 for veterans or their families experiencing financial crisis and needing help with housing and utilities. The State of Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs assists veterans with health care, disability compensation, tuition assistance, burial benefits, and specialized support for recently separated veterans, disabled veterans, women veterans, and those at risk of homelessness.