Public and nonprofit programs can help older adults pay for food, prescriptions, Medicare costs, utilities, housing and more. Yet many people who qualify never apply. Some assume their income is too high, some do not know the programs exist and some find the paperwork overwhelming.
Checking takes less time than you might think, and help with applications is available for free.
Programs worth checking
- Medicare Savings Programs to help pay Medicare premiums. See our guide.
- Extra Help with prescription drug costs. See our guide.
- Medicaid for health care and long-term care. See our guide.
- SNAP food benefits. See our guide.
- LIHEAP help with heating and cooling bills. See our guide.
- Weatherization to make your home more energy efficient. See our guide.
- Property tax relief for older homeowners. See our guide.
- Lifeline discounts on phone and internet. See our guide.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for people with very limited income. See our guide.
- Veterans benefits for veterans and surviving spouses. See our guide.
Step 1: Use a free screening tool
- BenefitsCheckUp, from the nonprofit National Council on Aging, asks a series of questions about your age, income, household and expenses, then lists federal, state and local programs you may qualify for, with information on how to apply.
- USA.gov's benefit finder helps you find federal benefits based on life events such as retirement, disability or the death of a loved one.
Both are free, and you do not need to create an account to see results.
Step 2: Gather your information
Having these details on hand makes screening and applying faster:
- Your Social Security benefit amount and any pension income.
- Bank account balances and other savings.
- Rent or mortgage, property tax and utility costs.
- Out-of-pocket medical costs, including Medicare premiums.
- Your Medicare card and other insurance cards.
- Proof of age, identity and address.
Step 3: Get help applying
You do not have to do this alone. Free help is available from:
- Your Area Agency on Aging, which can explain local programs and help with applications. Find yours through the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.
- Your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for Medicare-related programs. See how SHIP counseling works.
- 211, a free phone line run by local organizations, which connects callers to help with food, housing, utilities and more. Dial 211.
- Benefits enrollment centers, in some areas, which specialize in helping older adults apply for several programs at once.
Do not rule yourself out
Many programs do not count all of your income or assets. Your home, one car and household belongings usually do not count, and medical expenses can be deducted in some programs. If you are close to a limit, apply anyway. The worst outcome is a "no," and you can often reapply if your situation changes.
Keep records
Keep copies of every application, letter and approval notice. Note the date you applied and who you spoke with. Many programs require you to renew each year, so put renewal dates on your calendar.
