A straightforward low/no cost patent?

I want to apply for a patent but I've never been involved with the process,or never known anyone that's even applied.A babe in the wood's if you will. So far I've only been able to confuse myself searching for the answers I'm looking for,but it seems everyone has their hand out for big money.I don't have it,been on unemployment for awhile,savings gone.Does anyone know the answer?