HHS General Assistance Program

Buncombe County Commissioners recently approved a new initiative aimed at helping qualified applicants. You may qualify for up to $500 from the HHS General Assistance Program. If eligible, these funds may be used to address short-term financial hardships. Payments are made directly to the source of the approved bill. Payments will not be made directly to individuals.

Please note: applicants who received grants last year will need to re-apply.

Eligibility requirements include:

  • You must be a resident of Buncombe County.
  • You are requesting assistance for your primary residence.
  • Your household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Limits. (See chart below.)
  • You must not have more than $5,000 in reserve. This includes cash and all checking & savings accounts that can be available within 7 days.

Household Area Median Income Chart

2026 Federal Poverty Limit Chart
Household Size 200% Limit
1 $31,920
2 $43,280
3 $54,640
4 $66,000
5 $77,360
6 $88,720
7 $100,080
8 $111,440
9 $122,800
*For any household over 9 members, contact HHS for assistance.

Two Ways to Inquire

Option 1: Fill out eligibility inquiry

Begin eligibility process by answering a few questions to see if you may be eligible.

Begin Eligibility Process

Option 2: Call us

Call Buncombe County Health and Human Services at (828) 250-5500 to find out if you qualify and join the list of interested applicants. If you prefer, the application is available here to mail, email, fax, or drop off.

Important Information

NOTICE: Completing this inquiry form does not guarantee eligibility in the HHS General Assistance program and does not guarantee delivery of benefits.

To determine eligibility, we may ask for

  • Proof of income
    • 2025 Tax returns
    • check stubs
    • award letter (ex. Social Security award letter, retirement letter)
    • official letter from your employer or other acceptable verification
  • Proof of Reserve
    • checking & savings account statements

Call Buncombe County Health and Human Services at (828) 250-5500 if you need to discuss your eligibility or if you have additional questions. There may be other housing programs available to assist you.