Start here: help in Indiana, step by step
The short answer
If you don't know where to start, dial 211. Apply for SNAP and Medicaid on the FSSA Benefits Portal or at your local DFR office. Then use the pages below for shelter, ID, jobs and legal help.
Need help tonight?
Step 1: Dial 211
Indiana 211 connects you to local help for shelter, food, bills and more.
"Hi. I'm in [your city or ZIP]. I need help with [shelter, food, a bill] today."
"Is there anything open now? What do I need to bring?"
Official page: in211.org
Step 2: Food and health coverage
The Division of Family Resources (DFR) takes SNAP applications on the FSSA Benefits Portal, or at a local DFR office if you don't have a computer. Medicaid applications go through the same portal. DFR line: 800 403 0864.
Official pages: in.gov/fssa/dfr/snap-food-assistance, in.gov/medicaid/members/apply-for-medicaid
Step 3: Keep going, one thing at a time
- No safe place to sleep tonight? See Emergency shelter tonight.
- No ID to vote? The BMV gives a state ID card at no cost if you don't have one that works for voting.
- Eviction papers? Go to court, and call Indiana Legal Services at 1 844 243 8570.
- Someone hurting you at home? Call 1 800 332 7385, 24 hours.
Official pages: in.gov/sos/elections/voter-information/photo-id-law/obtaining-a-photo-id, indianalegalservices.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Eviction-KYR-9.2022.pdf, icadvinc.org/find-help/dv-programs
More help in Indiana
Sources last checked October 27, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
Nothing here is a promise of a bed, money or a spot in any program. Each place decides who it can serve. You choose what feels right for you.