Lowering Costs for the Central Valley

Rep. Gray with a veteran in California's 13th district.

I hear from Valley families all the time who are struggling with higher prices on groceries, gas, health care, and a lot more. Everything is just too expensive these days.

I understand how tough higher prices and inflation can be. I was raised in the Valley and grew up working in my dad's dairy supply store. I've seen firsthand how hard local folks in our community work, but it feels like it's harder than it used to be to make a decent living.

That's why I'm focused on real and bipartisan solutions to lower your costs. That includes rolling back tariffs that are raising prices on groceries. I'm also pushing to renew tax breaks that lower health insurance premiums, and helped pass a bipartisan law to stop fees that raise energy prices.

But I know people need assistance right now. So please use the links below to find help for you and your family.

Help with the Federal Government

My team and I are here to assist Valley families who are having issues with the federal government. Below are just some of the ways we can help. We've already helped return more than $2.7 million to Valley taxpayers. We're here for you, no matter what.

If you need help with a federal agency right away or would like to begin opening a case with my team, click here to get started or give us a call at (209) 226-6880.

Help for Veterans: The men and women who have served our country deserve our complete support. My office is always here to help local veterans access their health care and earned benefits from the Department of Veterans' Affairs and other federal agencies.
Help with Taxes: We're here to help you cut through IRS red tape. We can help you recover stalled tax refunds, correct your IRS records, and even get quicker answers on tax questions.
Help for Small Business: Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. If you're a small business owner or employee, we can help you navigate issues with the Small Business Administration or the Department of Agriculture if you're a farmer or producer.
Help for Seniors: Seniors in the Valley have paid into Social Security and Medicare their entire lives. They deserve their earned savings and health care. We can help retrieve backlogged benefits and resolve challenges you're having with Medicare.
Help with Passports: Have an upcoming vacation or business trip? We can help you resolve issues with the State Department and even expedite passport requests.

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Help with Groceries

Groceries on a budget: The U.S. Department of Agriculture has resources on its website that can help folks save while shopping for nutritious meals.
Shop simple with MyPlate: You may also be able to use the Department of Agriculture's smart phone app to find savings in your area.
Emergency food assistance: Families in need or people with modest incomes can also explore emergency food aid that can help them.

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Help with Gas

Find cheaper local gas stations: At fueleconomy.gov, you may be able to find cheaper gas in your neighborhood.
Improve gas mileage: The Department of Transportation also has resources on how to improve your mileage.
Saving in cold or hot weather: Different weather conditions and temperatures can impact your gas mileage. Learn how to save at any time of the year.

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Help with Health Care

Covered California: Visit California's health insurance marketplace to find plans that may work for you and your family. I'm also pushing to renew tax breaks to lower health insurance your premiums.
Find local help: You may also be able to get in-person assistance to find more affordable health insurance. You can also access help over the phone or via email.
Insurekidsnow.gov: The children's health insurance program may offer affordable insurance for children and teens.
Community health centers: Local health centers are also an option, including those who are uninsured or underinsured.
Mental health care: Resources are available to help those who need assistance with mental health care as well.

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Help with Bills, Utilities, and Finances

Claim lost property: Did you know you may be able to claim lost property from the state of California for free? Sometimes people lose track of old savings accounts or paychecks, which can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars in relief.
Credit cards: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has information to help people navigate their credit cards and save.
Home energy audit: Sometimes common-sense improvements at your household can help you save.
Energy saver: The U.S. Department of Energy has a variety of resources that may help you save on your heating or water bill.

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Help with Housing

Homeowners: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has a range of information and resources to help homeowners in need.
Help for homebuyers: You can also find assistance if you're thinking about buying a new home.
Homeowner success guide: The Department of Housing and Urban Development's homeowner success guide is a comprehensive resource to help homeowners navigate their options.
Renters: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau as well have information to assist renters.
Find a housing counselor: Federally approved housing counselors may be able to help you too, often at little or no cost.

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Help with Taxes:

Help with stalled refunds or other IRS issues: Please know that my office is here to help people who are having issues with the federal government, including the IRS. If you have a stalled refund or another IRS issue, please contact us directly and look into opening a case.
Contact your local IRS office: You can also reach out to a local IRS office near you to ask questions.
Taxpayer advocate service: An independent service within the IRS, they ensure taxpayers are treated fairly.
Find the status of your refund: You may also be able to use a tool from the IRS to see the status of a refund and when it may be issued.
Free tax preparation help: Some taxpayers may also qualify for free tax preparation services.

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