New Mexico Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) #
Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) is the state’s equivalent of the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) that helps put money back in the pockets of hard working New Mexicans.
The New Mexico’s refundable credit is now worth 20% 1 over and above the allowable credit you get from the federal government, up from 17% previously. 2
That’s additional $200 for every $1,000 you claim on your federal tax return. For example, if you’re eligible to receive $3,300 from the federal government, the state will send you a check of $660.
New Mexico Works (NM Works) #
New Mexico Works (NM Works) — New Mexico’s version of TANF, is the essential part of the safety net for very low-income families in New Mexico. It provides time-limited cash assistance to families who qualify.
While cash benefits are meager — about $447 per month for a family of three, NM Works provides the much needed assistance for thousands of New Mexicans each month.
With a few exceptions, NM Works recipients must spend 20 to 30 hours per week in activities to help them get work skills that will allow them to leave the program for suitable jobs.
How do I apply for cash assistance in New Mexico?
Application for all public assistance in New Mexico can be done online via Yes! New Mexico — the official portal for people in New Mexico to apply, renew & check benefits at the comfort of their home.
New Mexico Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) #
New Mexico SNAP, previously called “food stamps”, helps low-income families in New Mexico to afford healthy foods. A low-income family is defined as one whose income is no more than 185% of the federal poverty level.
The amount of monthly SNAP benefits vary depending on size of the family, income, and expenses. The average household with children received about $375 a month in New Mexico.
How do I apply for food stamps in New Mexico?
Application for SNAP in New Mexico can be done online via Yes! New Mexico. Once your application is verified, you will be notified by letter within 30 days as to whether or not your SNAP assistance is approved.
For more information about SNAP, call
(800) 432-6217
New Mexico Special Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) #
WIC helps low-income families with checks or vouchers to buy healthy supplemental foods from WIC-authorized vendors. It also provides nutrition education, and help finding health and dental care and other community services.
In New Mexico, WIC serves women, infants, and children whose income is at or below 185% of the federally poverty. Priority is given to women and children with the most serious health risks.
There are over 110 WIC sites throughout New Mexico. Call the Family Health Bureau’s WIC number at 505-476-8800 to find a site nearest you and set up an appointment.
New Mexico Centennial Care (Medicaid) #
Centennial Care, the new name for Medicaid in New Mexico, is the largest program providing medical and health-related services to state’s poorest residents — including children from low-income families and pregnant women.
As New Mexico is expanding Medicaid coverage, nearly all uninsured adults age 19-64 with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL) may now gain coverage under ACA.
Families who do not qualify for Centennial Care may be eligible to receive cost-saving subsidies that can immediately help pay for health insurance premiums in a Marketplace.
How do I apply for Medicaid in New Mexico?
To apply for Centennial Care online, visit Yes! New Mexico and create an account if you don’t already have one or call 1-855-637-6574 to complete an application by phone.
New MexiKids / New MexiTeens #
New MexiKids and New MexiTeens are no cost or low cost health coverage for children and young adults under age 19. New MexiKids for children 0 – 12 and New MexiTeens for teens ages 13 – 19.
Coverage for both programs helps pay for regular check-ups, doctor visits, dental visits, hospital care, prescriptions, glasses, hearing and vision exams, among others.
Both programs are open to children from families whose household income is 245% or less of the federal poverty level (FPL) or less than 305% for children age below 5.
New Mexico Child Care Assistance Program #
New Mexico CCAP provides childcare assitance for eligible families who meet the income eligibility requirements. In general, it covers families with income not exceeding 198% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
The subsidy amount varies based on the your gross monthly income, family size, and type and cost of care AND since it is a subsidy, you may be required to pay for some of the child care costs.
How do I apply for child care assistance in New Mexico?
Families are encouraged to apply online through Am I Eligible. If you need help selecting a child care provider, please call Child Care Resource and Referral at 1-800-691-9067.
New Mexico Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) #
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) assists eligible New Mexico residents and families with their heating and cooling costs.
Applicants must qualify as low-income according to the guidelines set by LIHEAP; that is at or below 150% of federal poverty level. Priority is given to those who are truly vulnerable — the lowest-income households with the highest heating costs.
In addition to the energy assistance benefit, households that are eligible for LIHEAP may also qualify for crisis intervention, and weatherization services.
How do I apply for LIHEAP in New Mexico?
Complete the online LIHEAP application through the Yes! New Mexico. You will be notified by letter within 45 days as to whether or not your LIHEAP assistance is approved.
For additional information on LIHEAP, please call
(800) 283-4465
New Mexico Unemployment Insurance #
Unemployment insurance (UI) provides temporary cash benefits to eligible workers who lost their job through no fault of their own.
As a condition of eligibility, you must search for work each week that you file a claim for benefits. If you fail to do so, you may be denied benefits until you confirm that you are actively looking for a job.
How much do I get for unemployment in New Mexico?
If eligible, you will get about half of your average weekly wage in benefits, up to $514 per week, excluding the $300 in supplemental relief through September 2021.
How do I file for unemployment in New Mexico?
There are two ways to file for unemployment in New Mexico, either electronically at New Mexico Workforce Connection online system or by phone 1-877-664-6984.
New Mexico College Affordability Grant #
College Affordability Grant is in place to encourage New Mexico students with financial need, who do not qualify for other state grants and scholarships, to pursue higher education at New Mexico public colleges or universities.
Maximum of $500 per semester depending on financial need, but can be renewed for up to eight semesters (four years). Funding is limited, so applying early is key!
- The Office of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. Gov. Lujan Grisham enacts measure effectively slashing taxes for New Mexico working families.
- Beginning in 2023, it will be worth 25% of the EITC.