The Ultimate Guide to Government Aid for Seniors
Date Published: July 15, 2022
Although the COVID-19 pandemic made it more difficult for older adults to afford their living expenses, research published by the United States Census Bureau indicates that one in six older Americans “participated in a wide range of needs-based assistance programs” before the SARS-CoV-2 virus entered the United States. Melissa Garthwait, Resource Coordinator at Hartford HealthCare’s Center for Healthy Aging, explains, “As We are seeing an increase in elderly that are homeless or being evicted from rental properties. They have lost income sources and had reductions in monthly benefits, and thus are unable to make ends meet and pay their rent as they were prepandemic.”
Worried about rising costs, many older adults are turning to government-funded programs for help with the cost of housing, utility bills, medical care and food. This guide provides an overview of some of the most helpful programs, along with eligibility information and application instructions for each one. You’ll also find information on programs designed to promote civic engagement and help seniors stay connected within their communities.
Housing Assistance for Seniors
According to Whitney Airgood-Obrycki, a senior research associate for the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, it’s so difficult for older adults to find safe, appropriate housing because “incomes for the lowest-income older adults have not risen as fast as rents.” If you are on a fixed income, one of these government-funded programs may help you reduce your housing costs or find a suitable place to live that will allow you to age in place.
Home Equity Conversion Mortgages for Seniors
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) insures one type of reverse mortgage: home equity conversion mortgages offered by FHA-approved lenders. With a traditional mortgage, a homeowner must make monthly payments until the principal balance and loan interest are paid in full. As the principal balance decreases, the borrower gains more equity in the home. A reverse mortgage allows a homeowner to give up their equity in exchange for monthly payments, which can be used to supplement a senior’s Social Security benefits and other forms of income.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the HECM program, you must be at least 62 years old and meet the following requirements:
- Own the property outright or have a high percentage of equity in the property
- Have no delinquent federal debt
- Use the home as your primary residence
- Attend an information session with a HUD-approved counselor
- Have the financial resources needed to keep up with property taxes, HOA fees, insurance and other ongoing expenses related to the home
- Show proof of timely property tax and insurance payments
- Own a home that meets all FHA flood requirements and general property standards
How to Apply
When you apply for the HECM program, be prepared for the lender to verify your income, credit history, monthly living expenses and assets. To begin the application process, contact an FHA-approved lender.
Contact Information
Telephone: Call (800) 569-4287 to ask an HECM counselor for a referral.
Website: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/sfh/hecm/hecmhome
Housing Choice Voucher Program
HUD also funds the housing choice voucher program, which helps low-income individuals obtain appropriate housing. It’s important to note,
“Demand for this program is high, so applicants should plan an eventual move to these housing options a few years in advance and put their name on a waiting list”
explains Marc Levesque, Resource Coordinator at Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging.
Public housing agencies throughout the United States use HUD funds to pay rent subsidies on behalf of program participants. These agencies pay landlords directly, leaving voucher recipients to pay the difference between the market rent and subsidy. The amount due depends on several factors, but it can’t exceed 40% of your monthly adjusted income at the time you move into the unit or sign your first lease as a program participant.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the housing choice voucher program, you must be a U.S. citizen or legal immigrant. Applicants must also meet certain guidelines regarding income and household size.
How to Apply
Although the program is funded by HUD, you must contact your local public housing authority to begin the application process.
Contact Information
Telephone: Contact the PIH Customer Service Center at (800) 955-2232.
Website: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/programs/hcv/about
Housing Repair Loans and Grants
The Section 504 Home Repair program provides grants to elderly homeowners to help them eliminate health and safety hazards from their homes. These grants are available to seniors living in eligible rural areas as determined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. There’s a lifetime limit of $10,000 in grants for each eligible senior.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a grant through the Section 504 Home Repair program, you must be at least 62 years old, own and live in your home, have a household income that doesn’t exceed the “very low” limit and be unable to obtain an affordable loan from another funding source. The income limit varies based on state and sometimes county of residence.
How to Apply
To apply for a Section 504 grant, visit the USDA Rural Development website and download the Uniform Residential Loan Application, Request for Information, Attachment 12-E checklist and Employment and Asset Certification form. Once you have the required forms, contact your local USDA Rural Development office.
Contact Information
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides federal funds to help households manage their energy costs. Depending on a household’s needs, LIHEAP may pay for home weatherization or energy-related repairs, provide assistance with overdue utility bills or help participants avoid utility shutoff notices and other energy emergencies.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for LIHEAP, you must need help paying your energy-related costs and meet certain income requirements. For a one-person household, the annual income limit is $20,385. The limit increases to $27,465 for a two-person household. If you have additional household members, add $7,080 for each one to determine what the maximum annual income would be for your household size.
If you participate in SSI, SNAP, TANF or certain other benefit programs, you may qualify for LIHEAP automatically.
How to Apply
To apply for the program, use the LIHEAP Map State and Territory Contact Listing to find the LIHEAP office for your state or tribe. You can also call the National Energy Assistance Referral project at (866) 674-6327 if you need help finding the right office. Some states contract with local non profit agencies to assist people in need of energy assistance with screening applicants for eligibility, completing and processing the application as well as distributing the funds once approved.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap
Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program
The Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program gives low-income seniors access to affordable housing and a variety of supportive services. Nonprofit organizations use Section 202 funding to expand the supply of affordable housing throughout the United States. Supportive services may include transportation and homemaking tasks including meal preparation.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program, one person in your household must be at least 62 years old. You must also meet the criteria for a very-low income household. To find out if your household is under the annual income limit, use the HUD User website, click “Click Here for FY 2021 IL Documentation” and use the search tool to find the limits for your county. You may not qualify for Section 202 housing if you have a criminal record, owe debt to a public housing authority, have a recent (within five years) eviction from any type of HUD housing or have had previous housing assistance terminated by a public authority.
How to Apply
To apply for Section 202 housing, find an available unit, contact the apartment manager and submit a rental application. You’ll need to provide your name, contact information, criminal history and other details to the prospective landlord. Once your application is complete, you’ll need to attend an in-person interview with the property manager. Some property managers require just the applicant to attend, while others want to meet every member of your household. Your state may partner with a local, non profit agency to assist older adults with the application process. Your local senior center or regional area agency on aging office would know what resources are available within your jurisdiction for housing support.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/mfh/grants/section202ptl
Weatherization Assistance Program
Managed by the U.S. Department of Energy, the Weatherization Assistance Program provides funds to help homeowners reduce their energy costs and make their homes both cost effective and fuel efficient. As part of the WAP program, homeowners may receive some of the following services:
- Repair or replacement of HVAC systems
- Installation of programmable thermostats, water heater insulation, heating pipe insulation and solar water heater systems
- Repair or replacement of windows and doors
- Installation of low-flow showerheads, energy-efficient lights, solar screens, window awnings and mechanical ventilation systems
- Testing of appliances and safety systems
Eligibility Requirements
You may qualify for the WAP program if your income doesn’t exceed 200% of the federal poverty level or if you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Aid to Families with Dependent Children benefits. Depending on where you live, your state may use LIHEAP criteria, which means you may qualify for the WAP program if your household income is at or below 60% of your state median.
How to Apply
To apply, use the Energy.gov website to find your state weatherization administrator. Each state is allowed to set its own application requirements, so follow the instructions provided by the administrator in your area.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.energy.gov/eere/wap/weatherization-assistance-program
Government-Funded Health Programs
Although millions of older adults have access to Medicare, some of them put off going to the doctor or getting essential health screenings. According to an analysis of findings from The 2021 International Health Policy Survey of Older Adults, “If out-of-pocket costs for health care services are not affordable, some older adults will postpone nonurgent care or forgo it entirely.” Seniors with limited financial resources may skip their medications, avoid getting recommended diagnostic tests or delay follow-up exams to limit their out-of-pocket costs.
Deidre Sommerer, LPN, MS, CMC, CDP, Geriatric Care Manager at Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging, clarifies, “Federal programs which provide needed access to basic healthcare services and supports helps seniors receive the necessary care and services they need to prevent disease and maintain optimal health.” If high out-of-pocket expenses have been causing you to delay care, you may be able to enroll in one of the programs below to make your costs more manageable.
Medicare
Medicare is a health insurance program that covers a variety of medical services for older adults and some younger people with Lou Gehrig’s disease, end-stage kidney disease and other disabilities. Original Medicare is managed by the federal government and includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). Most people pay no premium for Part A coverage, but there’s a monthly premium for Part B.
Medicare Advantage Plans are sold by private insurance companies. Each plan must cover all the services covered by Original Medicare, but insurers are allowed to offer additional benefits. You will still pay your Original Medicare premium and may have to pay copays, co-insurance and deductibles for the services you receive. If you sign up for Medicare Advantage, you’ll pay a monthly premium to your insurance provider.
Eligibility Requirements
Medicare coverage is available to adults who are aged 65 and older or have a qualifying medical condition. To qualify for premium-free Part A coverage individuals must meet the following criteria:
- You must have worked and paid into Medicare for 10 years (40 quarters) and filed an application for Social Security or Railroad Retirement Benefits.
- You receive retirement benefits from the Railroad Retirement Board or Social Security.
- You’re eligible for retirement benefits from the Railroad Retirement Board or Social Security, but you haven’t applied for them yet.
- You or your spouse worked for a government employer that was covered by Medicare.
- You are entitled to receive Medicare based on your earnings or the earnings of a spouse, parent, or child.
There are no residency requirements for U.S. citizens or lawfully present non-citizens who are entitled to premium free Part A.
How to Apply
To apply for Medicare, fill out the application on the Social Security Administration website, call (800) 772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office. If you decide to switch to Medicare Advantage at some point, use the Medicare Plan Finder tool to search for plans available in your area. Once you find a plan that meets your needs, call (800) 633-4227 or go to the plan provider’s website to download an enrollment form or enroll online.
Another way to apply is through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) that is federally funded through the Older Americans Act. Most SHIP services are available through the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) in each state of the U.S. The AAA are subdivided within each state to serve each region and administer free, unbiased counseling/advice on Medicare options and provide education to consumers about the different parts of Medicare and their costs.
Contact Information
Telephone: (800) 633-4227
Website: https://www.medicare.gov/ or www.shiphelp.org
Medicare Savings Programs
Although Medicare is more affordable than many other types of health insurance, it’s not free. You must pay a monthly premium for Part B, along with some other out-of-pocket costs. The premium cost in 2022 is $170.10, an increase of $21.60 from 2021. Medicare Savings Programs make these costs more manageable. Available programs include the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program, Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary Program, Qualifying Individual Program and Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals Program.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for one of these programs, you must meet certain income and resource requirements in most states. Countable resources include stocks, bonds and the money you have in your bank accounts. Your home, one vehicle, furniture and personal items aren’t counted toward the resource limit. You must also be eligible for Medicare Part A to qualify for an MSP. Eligibility criteria varies from state to state so be sure to check with your local area agency on aging to get updated income and asset thresholds that pertain to the state you reside in.
Program
Income Limit*
Resource Limit
Type of Assistance
Qualified Medicare Beneficiary
$1,153 for individuals
$1,546 for married couples
$8,400 for individuals
$12,600 for married couples
Part A premiums
Part B premiums
Deductibles, copays and coinsurance for services covered by Medicare
Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary
$1,379 for individuals
$1,851 for married couples
$8,400 for individuals
$12,600 for married couples
Part B premiums
Qualifying Individual
$1,549 for individuals
$2,080 for married couples
$8,400 for individuals
$12,600 for married couples
Part B premiums
Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals
$,4615 for individuals
$6,189 for married couples
$4,000 for individuals
$6,000 for married couples
Part A premiums
* The income limits are higher in Alaska and Hawaii.
How to Apply
To apply for an MSP, contact your state Medicaid agency or SHIP.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/medicare-savings-programs
Medicaid
Medicaid is a federal program that covers many medical services, including doctor visits, X-rays, hospital care, lab tests and home health care. Depending on where you live, you may even qualify for a waiver program, giving you access to additional services to help you stay in your home by providing “nursing home level of care” in the community.
Eligibility Requirements
Medicaid coverage is automatically available to SSI recipients. You may also qualify for Medicaid if you meet certain financial requirements. Since Medicaid is administered at the state level, the income and asset limits depend on where you live. Although the Affordable Care Act changed the way Medicaid income limits are calculated for most applicants, state Medicaid agencies typically use the SSI income methodologies to set limits for applicants applying on the basis of age, blindness or disability. Some states use their own methodologies, meaning some are more restrictive than others.
How to Apply
To apply for Medicaid, contact your state Medicaid agency. If your state doesn’t have its own health insurance exchange, you can also apply via the federal Health Insurance Marketplace.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.medicaid.gov/
Institutional Medicaid
Institutional Medicaid covers many of the medical and social services needed to keep older adults as active and engaged as possible. Other types of Medicaid don’t cover room and board at skilled nursing facilities, but Institutional Medicaid does. The program covers hospital care, skilled nursing/rehabilitation facilities and mental health facilities. If you qualify for Institutional Medicaid, you may be able to use it to pay for long-term care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation or other services provided in an institutional setting.
Eligibility Requirements
Although the federal government develops Medicaid regulations, each state is responsible for managing its Medicaid program. Therefore, the eligibility requirements vary from state to state. For Institutional Medicaid, the monthly income limits are usually higher than those for regular Medicaid. Your state may also have an asset limit, meaning you’ll need to provide information on any cash, bank accounts, investments, insurance policies and other assets you own to determine if you’re eligible.
How to Apply
To apply for Medicaid coverage, contact your state Medicaid agency. Many agencies allow you to apply online, fill out a paper application or apply in person or via the telephone.
Contact Information
Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly
If you require a nursing home level of care and want to stay in your community, you may qualify for PACE, a program that covers all Medicaid- and Medicare-approved services. PACE gives you access to a team of health care professionals responsible for coordinating your care and making sure you get the services you need to continue living in your community. There’s no monthly premium for PACE if you’re eligible for Medicaid. If you’re on Medicare, you’ll pay a monthly premium, but there are no copays or deductibles for the services you receive.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for PACE, you must meet the following requirements:
- At least 55 years old
- Live in an area served by a PACE organization
- Have the ability to stay in your community if you receive services through PACE
- Require a nursing facility level of care
How to Apply
To check your eligibility and find out how to apply, contact your state Medicaid agency or use the PACE Plan Finder to locate a PACE office near you.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/pace
Food and Nutrition Programs Administered by Government Agencies
Food insecurity is a major problem for seniors in the United States. Researchers from Feeding America report that 7.1% of older adults—more than five million people—experienced food insecurity in 2019, which is the most recent year with available data. According to this report, “State-level rates of food insecurity among seniors ranged from 2.9% in Minnesota to 13.5% in the District of Columbia.” Food insecurity refers to difficulty accessing foods that can help an individual live an active, healthy life. If you struggle to pay for groceries or access fresh fruits and vegetables, one of the programs below may be able to help.
Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program
The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program gives low-income seniors access to locally grown produce, herbs and honey. Participating in the SFMN program reduces your monthly grocery costs, making it easier to afford nutritious foods.
Eligibility Requirements
You must be at least 60 years old and have a household income that doesn’t exceed 185% of the federal poverty level.
How to Apply
The SFMN program is administered at the state level. For information on applying, contact the distribution agency in your area.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
The SNAP program provides a monthly supplement to help eligible households pay for food. If you qualify, you’ll receive an EBT card that works like a debit or credit card. With these EBT cards, you can purchase food at approved supermarkets and retail stores. Produce, meat, fish, poultry, breads, cereals, dairy products and many other foods can be purchased with SNAP benefits. SNAP doesn’t cover alcoholic beverages, live animals or foods that are prepared in a store and purchased while they’re hot.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for SNAP, you must have no more income than $3,750 if at least one person in your household is aged 60 or older. If you’re under age 60 and have no older adults living with you, the limit is $2,500. The resource limit doesn’t apply if you receive SSI or TANF benefits. SNAP also limits you to no more than $1,396 in gross monthly income and no more than $1,074 in net monthly income for a one-person household. Gross income is the amount of income you have before any deductions are made whereas net income is your gross income minus certain deductions. If you live in a two-person household, the limit is $1,888 in gross monthly income and $1,452 in net monthly income.
How to Apply
To apply for benefits, use the SNAP State Directory of Resources to find a SNAP office near you. Each state has its own application process, so you’ll need to follow the instructions provided by your state agency.
Most towns/municipalities employ a social worker who can assist with determining if one is eligible for SNAP and applying for the benefit. Contact your nearest senior center for more information regarding resources to assist with the SNAP process.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program
The Commodity Supplemental Food Program
The Commodity Supplemental Food Program helps make it easier for low-income seniors to get the nutrients that are often missing from their diets. CSFP packages don’t meet 100% of an individual’s nutritional needs, but they contain protein and other essential nutrients that can help recipients improve their health. The foods available include canned chicken, peanut butter, tuna, corn, potatoes and beans.
Eligibility Requirements
You must be at least 60 years old and reside in a state or on an Indian reservation that participates in the program. Your income must also be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level.
How to Apply
To apply for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, use the USDA website to find out if your state or reservation participates. Then, contact your local agency for instructions on applying.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp/commodity-supplemental-food-program
The Emergency Food Assistance Program
Administered by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service, TEFAP makes nutritious foods available to food banks, community action agencies and other organizations. These organizations distribute food to low-income households or use it to prepare congregate meals at senior centers and other sites. Depending on growing conditions and other factors, you may receive apples, oranges, peaches, beans, carrots, potatoes or other fruits and vegetables.
Eligibility Requirements
To receive food via TEFAP, you must meet the eligibility guidelines established by your state. If you receive prepared meals in a community setting, you’re not subject to a means test. If you receive TEFAP assistance through a food bank or other organization, then your income must fall below the state limit. Some states have more restrictive limits than others.
How to Apply
To apply for TEFAP, use the USDA Food and Nutrition Service website to find your state distributing agency. Then contact the SDA to discuss the application requirements for your location.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.fns.usda.gov/tefap/emergency-food-assistance-program
Supplemental Income and Employment Programs
Seniors often need extra help paying for basic necessities because their income isn’t high enough to pay for housing, food, health care and other needed services. According to the Administration for Community Living, the 2019 annual median income for older people was just $27,398. The report also indicates that “4.9 million people aged 65+ lived below the poverty level” and another 2.6 million were “near-poor.”
“In addition to the extra income, work for seniors can provide an activity to fill idle time, enhance socialization and create a sense of worth and purpose,” adds Mr. Levesque. If your current income isn’t enough to meet your needs and you long for purposeful work, you may be able to find what you’re looking for through one of these supplemental income and employment programs.
American Job Centers/CareerOneStop
If you’re able to work, American Job Centers can help you find employment in your area. Trained counselors are available to provide free employment assistance, which may include job training, skills testing, practice interviews, employment workshops and supportive services. The CareerOneStop website also has educational materials on applying for jobs, writing resumes, planning your job search and other employment-related topics.
Eligibility Requirements
All Americans are eligible to receive free employment assistance through American Job Centers. You don’t have to meet any income, asset or age requirements.
How to Apply
You don’t need to submit an application for assistance. Simply visit your local American Job Center to request help.
Contact Information
Telephone: (877) 872-5627
Website: https://www.careeronestop.org/
AmeriCorps Seniors
Volunteering is a great way to stay active and maintain a connection to the people in your community. AmeriCorps Seniors connects older adults with volunteer opportunities that are carefully selected to meet their needs. Reading to children, helping families affected by natural disasters and delivering groceries to homebound seniors are just a few of the opportunities available. Some programs even offer a stipend to low-income volunteers.
Eligibility Requirements
You must be at least 55 years old to join AmeriCorps Seniors. Depending on your interests, you may have to undergo additional screening. For example, if you want to read to children or serve as a foster grandparent, you may need to undergo a criminal background check and/or obtain your child abuse history clearances.
How to Apply
To apply, visit the AmeriCorps.gov website, create a profile and search for opportunities that match your interests. If you find one, complete the online application and submit it for processing.
Contact Information
Telephone: (800) 942-2677
Website: https://americorps.gov/
Federal Employees Retirement System
The Federal Employees Retirement System provides three types of retirement benefits for federal employees: Social Security, a Basic Benefit Plan and a Thrift Savings Plan. The Social Security and TSP benefits stay with an employee even if they leave the federal government to work for a private employer or state agency. FERS benefits can be used to supplement your income if you retire or reduce your work hours.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility for FERS benefits depends on your age and other circumstances. In some cases, you need to reach your minimum retirement age, which is based on the year you were born. The minimum age ranges from 55 for people born before 1948 to 57 for those born in 1970 or later. You may also need to submit a retirement application and meet other requirements. For example, you may be required to complete a minimum number of years of service.
How to Apply
If you’re interested in a deferred/postponed retirement benefit, fill out the FERS Application for Deferred or Postponed Retirement and mail it to the following address:
Office of Personnel Management
Federal Employees Retirement System
P.O. Box 45
Boyers, PA 16017-0045
If you want an immediate retirement benefit, fill out the FERS Application for Immediate Retirement and mail it to the Office of Personnel Management at the address above.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.opm.gov/retirement-services/fers-information/
Senior Community Service Employment Program
Administered by the U.S. Department of Labor, the Senior Community Service Employment Program provides job training to low-income seniors. Participants perform volunteer services at nonprofit organizations, schools, hospitals, senior centers and other sites, but they’re paid the local, state or federal minimum wage—whichever is highest. If you enroll, you’ll have the opportunity to learn new skills that can help you transition to a regular job.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the SCSEP, you must be at least 55 years old, have a household income that doesn’t exceed 125% of the federal poverty level and be unemployed. Priority is given to adults over the age of 65 and individuals with disabilities.
How to Apply
Use CareerOneStop to search for a local SCSEP by zip code. If you find a program that matches your needs, contact a program representative directly to discuss the application requirements.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/seniors
Supplemental Security Income
Supplemental Security Income provides cash benefits to seniors and disabled adults who have limited financial resources. You can use these benefits to pay for food and other necessary expenses. Unlike Social Security retirement benefits, the SSI program isn’t funded by payroll taxes. Even if you receive Social Security, you may still be eligible for SSI.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for SSI, you must meet the following requirements:
- At least 65 years old, blind or disabled
- A U.S. citizen, national or resident alien
- Reside within the United States., the Northern Mariana Islands or the District of Columbia
- Not currently incarcerated in jail or another institution funded by the government
- Have limited financial resources
How to Apply
To apply online, visit the Social Security Disability Benefits website and click “Apply for Disability.” Even if you’re not disabled, you can still use this application to apply for SSI benefits. You can also call (800) 772-1213 or request an appointment on the Social Security website.
Contact Information
Telephone: (800) 772-1213
Website: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/
Additional Forms of Government Aid for Seniors
Even with adequate financial resources, the costs of getting older can add up quickly. Fortunately, there are several government-funded programs available to help you stay active and get affordable advice on legal and financial issues.
America the Beautiful Senior Pass
If you love the outdoors, the America the Beautiful Senior Pass can make it much more affordable to visit national parks and other scenic sites. The pass, which costs $20 per year or $80 for the lifetime version, covers your admission to all national parks, forests, wildlife refuges and grasslands. It also covers admission to any lands managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Bureau of Reclamation and the Bureau of Land Management.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Senior Pass, you must be at least 62 years old and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
How to Apply
To buy a lifetime pass or yearly pass online, go to the U.S. Geological Survey store and add it to your shopping cart. You can also purchase a pass at a federal recreation site or download the application and mail it to the following address:
USGS
Attn: Senior Pass
P.O. Box 25286
Denver, CO 80225
Contact Information
Website: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm
Elder Justice Initiative
The Elder Justice Initiative is an effort by the U.S. Department of Justice to protect older adults from abuse, fraud, scams and neglect. In addition to investigating and prosecuting crimes committed against senior citizens, the EJI trains professionals involved in elder justice efforts, supports policy research and connects the victims of elder abuse with appropriate resources.
Eligibility Requirements
Any senior citizen can contact the EJI to report abuse, neglect or financial exploitation. If you’re referred to a local or state agency, you may need to meet that agency’s eligibility requirements to receive specific services.
How to Apply
If you need help, you don’t need to fill out an application. You can report fraud by calling the National Elder Fraud Hotline at (833) 372-8311 or report abuse to the Adult Protective Services agency in your state. The National Adult Protective Services Association has contact information for every state on its website.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice
NCOA Reverse Mortgage Counseling Service
If you’re thinking about getting a reverse mortgage, it’s wise to discuss your options with a trained professional. The National Council on Aging can help you determine if a reverse mortgage is appropriate for your circumstances. It can also refer you to other services that can help you stay in your home or determine if you’re eligible for public benefits that could help you pay for utilities, groceries and other household expenses.
Eligibility Requirements
You must be at least 62 years old to qualify for reverse mortgage counseling. The service isn’t free, but you may be able to delay payment until your mortgage closes. To qualify for a payment delay, your income must fall below 200% of the federal poverty level.
How to Apply
Call (855) 899-3778 to schedule a counseling session.
Contact
Website: https://www.ncoa.org/article/reverse-mortgage-counseling
Tax Credit for the Elderly and Disabled
Older adults and disabled individuals may qualify for a federal tax credit worth $3,750 to $7,500. This credit reduces the amount of tax you owe to the Internal Revenue Service.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Tax Credit for the Elderly and Disabled, you must meet one of the following requirements:
- Be aged 65 or older and have an adjusted gross income below certain limits; instead of using AGI, you can use the total of your nontaxable pensions, annuities, Social Security benefits and disability income to determine your eligibility, if applicable.
- Be on disability and have received taxable disability income during the tax year.
How to Apply
You don’t need to apply for this credit. Instead, work with your tax preparer or accountant to determine if you should take the credit on your federal tax return.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/credit-for-the-elderly-or-the-disabled
Government Assistance for Veterans
If you served in the United States military, you may be eligible for benefits available to veterans and their family members. These benefits can help you get medical care and other services.
Department of Veterans Affairs
The Department of Veterans Affairs operates hospitals and other health care facilities throughout the United States. You can also access educational and disability benefits through the VA system.
Eligibility Requirements
Each program or service has its own eligibility requirements. Some programs are available to veterans with limited financial resources, while others are available to all veterans who served on active duty or in the reserves. You may also have to prove that you were disabled as a result of your service to receive certain benefits.
How to Apply
To learn more about VA benefits and find out how to apply for each program, visit the Veterans Benefits Administration website.
Contact Information
Telephone: (800) 698-2411
Website: https://www.va.gov/
Military Health System
The Military Health System provides health care services to service members, veterans and their family members. TRICARE, which provides comprehensive health benefits to service members and their families, is one of the key components of the MHS. TRICARE covers a wide range of services, including preventive care, lab tests, X-rays and hospital care.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for TRICARE coverage, at least one of the following must apply:
- You’re a uniformed service member, National Guard/Reserve member or a family member of a service member or reservist.
- You’re the former spouse of a reservist or uniformed service member.
- You’re a Medal of Honor recipient or the family member of a recipient.
- You’re considered a survivor.
How to Apply
To enroll, visit the TRICARE website, select a plan and complete the enrollment paperwork. Depending on the plan you select, you may be able to enroll on the MilConnect website.
Contact Information
Telephone: Call the TRICARE contractor or partner in your area. The TRICARE website has a directory of telephone numbers.
Website: https://www.tricare.mil/
