Government Grants and Loans for Individuals

Many people look to the government hoping to find out how to apply for a grant or to get "free money," which they have seen advertised on television or in various publications. However, grants usually go to state and local governments or nonprofit organizations, which then use the money to operate assistance programs locally. USA.gov has information about legitimate grant and loan opportunities.

Individuals looking for government grants and loans should visit GovBenefits.gov. GovBenefits.gov is the official government benefits web site, encompassing more than 400 federal and 600 state programs funded by various agencies. This site allows you to complete a confidential questionnaire and receive a list of programs that may apply to your situation. States and organizations looking for grants should visit Grants.gov.

Another source of information is the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA), which is a directory of over 15 types of federal assistance, including grants and loans. There are about 1,500 programs listed in the CFDA. Each program has a summary which explains program eligibility requirements, agency contact information, and application instructions. A printed copy of the CFDA can also be ordered. Source, USA.gov