The Ultimate Guide to Government Aid for Seniors
Covered in this guide:
- Housing Assistance Programs
- Government Medical and Health Programs
- Government Food and Nutrition Programs for Seniors
- Government Employment Programs and Income Aid for Seniors
- Veteran-Specific Aid Programs
- Other Government Aid Programs for Seniors
- State-by-State Government Aid Guides
Updated: June 17, 2023 | Reviewed by: Angelo Musumeci
Poverty impacts an alarming number of U.S. seniors aged 65 and older. According to the 2020 Profile of Older Americans, published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human services, “In 2019, 4.9 million people aged 65 and older lived in poverty, and another 2.6 million were classified as ‘near poor.’” Many of these seniors rely on Social Security benefits and don’t have other sources of retirement income, such as a pension or savings.
The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities reports, “Social Security provides the majority of income to most older adults. For about half of this group, it provides at least 50 percent of their income, and for about 1 in 4 older adults, it provides at least 90 percent of their income, according to multiple surveys and the Census Bureau study.” These results indicate the growing number of seniors in need of financial assistance.
Government-funded programs are available to help seniors across the U.S. access the income and support they need when their retirement income is not enough to meet their basic needs, such as transportation, food, housing and health care. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, these programs helped the Supplemental Poverty Measure rate drop from 11.8% in 2019 to just 9.1% in 2020. This data tells us that government aid programs do help ensure senior’s basic needs are met, thus improving their quality of life.
This guide includes detailed information about the federal programs available to U.S. seniors. We’ve included information about how to find affordable housing and pay for repairs and utilities, how to apply for Medicare and Medicare, how to access food and nutrition programs and how to get work and income assistance.The VA Healthcare System and Aid and Attendance benefits for Veterans are also discussed
Housing Assistance Programs
Homelessness is an epidemic in the U.S. According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, more than half a million people were living without a home as of 2017, and in 2021, an estimated 326,000 Americans experienced sheltered homelessness on a single night. According to research conducted at The University of Pennsylvania, homelessness in the 65+ age group is expected to grow significantly through 2030.
Melissa Garthwait, Resource Coordinator at the Center for Health Aging at Hartford Healthcare, has seen homelessness among seniors “skyrocket as a result of the Covid 19 pandemic as many people are out of work and unable to assimilate back into the work environment. This has affected their ability to have the financial resources to pay rent and many are now homeless as a result. There has also been a huge rise in the number of evictions we are seeing with our clients."
In addition to VA shelters, the U.S. offers an array of other shelters and programs geared towards seniors who are or may become homeless.
The programs listed below offer help with paying rent or other household expenses and are designed to put an end to homelessness among seniors and all other age populations across the country.
USDA Housing Repair Program
The USDA's Housing Repair Program helps homeowners in rural areas throughout the U.S. make necessary improvements to their homes. It provides funding for repairs that enhance safety, either by conducting upgrades or removing hazards in or around the home. Senior beneficiaries of this program are usually provided with grants of up to $10,000; however, some with higher incomes may also be able to receive a USDA loan for as much as $40,000.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
To qualify for the USDA Housing Repair Program, applicants must:
| Applications can be submitted via any Rural Development Office. The office's representatives can also answer questions about the program and the application process. |
Weatherization Assistance Program
The Weatherization Assistance Program helps seniors and low-income individuals or families make improvements to their homes to improve energy efficiency. This program offers funds to make repairs, such as caulking, weather stripping replacement and window and door replacement.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
Online | To qualify for this program, the following criteria must be met:
| Seniors who wish to apply for the Weatherization Assistance Program, as well as those who have questions about eligibility or the application process, can contact their local weatherization program agency. |
HUD Public Housing Program
Seniors or low-income families can apply for the Public Housing Program to help them locate safe and affordable housing . Living options are available in every state and range from smaller apartments and townhomes to larger single-family homes for those larger families that require more space. This program works directly with landlords to provide funding for its beneficiaries.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
Contact local Housing Authority or HUD Field Office | To qualify for HUD Public Housing, the following criteria must be met:
| Seniors interested in applying for HUD Public Housing can contact their nearest Housing Authority or HUD Field Office. Individuals can also get answers to questions about the program, including eligibility and the application process. |
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
LIHEAP assists low-income households with paying their energy bills. The program determines how much each beneficiary needs and based on their income. The support provided by LIHEAP changes from household to household. Supplemental Security Income recipients usually qualify for this program automatically.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
(866) 674-6327 | To qualify for LIHEAP, the following criteria must be met:
| Seniors can apply for LIHEAP assistance by contacting their nearest program office. Any questions about eligibility or the application process can be directed to the number on the left. Additionally, calling 211, the United Way, also links older adults to non-profits that are tasked with assisting eligible individuals with the application process and paperwork needed for the energy assistance programs. |
Housing Choice Voucher Program
Housing Choice Vouchers,also known as Section 8, are offered to low-income seniors and families by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The vouchers can be used towards both public housing units as well as private apartments. Participants of this program don't receive vouchers directly. Instead, the subsidy is paid directly to their landlord. It's important to note that there is often a waiting list for participation in this program.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
To qualify for Housing Choice Vouchers, seniors must:
| Seniors can apply or ask questions about this program and its requirements by contacting their local Public Housing Agency. |
Government Medical and Health Programs
Aging seniors often require frequent medical care, and for those with a limited income, the cost of health care can often be too much to handle. Thankfully, programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, provide health insurance for seniors across the U.S. These programs continually evolve to include coverage for more services, including long-term care in a variety of settings.
While historically, the Medicaid programs in most states covered the cost of care in a skilled nursing facility, many states have expanded coverage in recent years to include coverage for additional long-term care options, including assisted living, memory care communities and in-home care.
In the U.S., two options are available to seniors who aren't able to afford private health insurance: Medicaid and Medicare.
Medicaid
Medicaid provides free health insurance for low-income seniors, families and individuals. This program is funded jointly by the federal government and individual state agencies. Seniors who enroll in Medicaid can access necessary health care services, including primary care, hospital services, emergency transportation and prescription medications. While Medicaid typically only covers the cost of nursing home care, in some states, waivers and other programs are available to provide help with funding other long-term care options.
Medicaid has provisions in place to protect the spouses of those who have moved into skilled nursing care. This spousal impoverishment rule ensures that the spouse who is still residing at home has sufficient income and assets by protecting a specified amount of the couple's combined income.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
(877) 267-2323 | To qualify for Medicaid, seniors must:
| Seniors can apply for Medicaid online by contacting their local Medicaid state agency. Questions about eligibility or applications can be directed to the number on the left. |
Medicare
Medicare is available to seniors aged 65 and older. It offers health insurance at an affordable rate, and seniors have the option to pick and choose the coverage they receive. Medicare is broken down into four parts:
- Part A: Covers inpatient hospital care
- Part B: Covers outpatient care and primary medical services
- Part C: Also known as Medicare Advantage, Part C offers extended coverage, such as chiropractic care, dental, vision and hearing benefits/services.
- Part D: Covers prescription drugs
At the time of enrollment, seniors generally enroll in Part A and Part B, while Part C and Part D can be elected once they determine which option is best and most cost effective for them.
Medicare Advantage plans are administered by private health insurance companies. Costs vary, depending on unique policy factors, including deductibles and coinsurance.
Low-income seniors may also qualify for additional financial entitlements through a low income subsidy which covers premiums, deductibles, coinsurance and copayments through one of four Medicare Savings Programs:
- Qualified Medicare Beneficiary
- Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary
- Qualifying Individual
- Qualifying and Working Individuals
These programs each have unique income and asset requirements and can be discussed with an insurance representative or the Social Security office while applying.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
(800) 772-1213 | To qualify for Medicare, seniors must be at least 65 years old and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. | Medicare must be purchased during the initial enrollment period, which starts 3 months before a senior's 65th birthday, includes their birth month and concludes 3 months after. Those who enroll late may be subject to a late enrollment penalty. Seniors can shop the Health Insurance Marketplace to find a plan that suits their needs. Questions about eligibility for Medicare Savings Programs can be directed to the Social Security Administration by calling the number to the left. |
Government Food and Nutrition Programs for Seniors
Accessing nutritious food and putting three meals on the table each day can be a challenge for many seniors in the U.S. An alarming 5.2 million seniors aged 60 and over were facing hunger as recently as 2019, according to Feeding America. Thankfully, the USDA and other government agencies are consistently working to solve this problem. “Programs such as Meals on Wheels, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Farmers' Markets and food pantries provide assistance to seniors living on fixed incomes, many who are living in poverty. If not for these programs, many older Americans would go without the necessary food needed to ensure good nutrition and health,” explains Deidre Sommerer, LPN, MS, CMC, CDP, Geriatric Care Manager at Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging.
The programs listed below provide help with accessing healthy, nutritious food and meals for seniors throughout the U.S.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP helps low-income Americans and their families access nutritious food by providing an Electronic Benefits Transfer card, which enables them to purchase groceries at eligible stores across the country. The card works in the same way a debit card does, deducting credits from the beneficiary's SNAP account in exchange for purchases, such as:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Meat and fish
- Dairy products
- Bread and cereals
- Snack foods
- Nonalcoholic beverages
This benefit can also be used to purchase seeds, so beneficiaries can produce their own food at home.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
Online | To qualify for SNAP as an older adult, the following criteria must be met:
Recipients of Supplemental Security Income and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families qualify for SNAP automatically. | Seniors can apply by contacting their local state agency. Any questions about the program and its eligibility requirements can also be directed to their local office. In addition, 211, the United Way hotline, also can assist with SNAP applications and/or guide individuals to community based resources that can assist. |
Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program
This program, which is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service, helps low-income seniors take home local, fresh fruits, vegetables, honey and herbs.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
To qualify for the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program, seniors must be aged 65 or older, and their income must be at or below 185% of the federal poverty guidelines. Automatic acceptance is granted to SNAP beneficiaries. | To learn more about this program or apply, seniors can contact their nearest local agency by browsing the link on the left. |
Emergency Food Assistance Program
This program is designed to provide food to those who need it urgently. Seniors who are struggling to pay for their meals can contact this program's nearest agency to request assistance.
The food supplied by the Emergency Food Assistance Program is purchased locally by the USDA and provided to food pantries and other local organizations that can ensure it gets to those who need it most.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
Eligibility is determined by individual organizations as requests are made. In most cases, acceptance is based on proof of need. | Seniors interested in learning more about this program can contact their local agency by browsing the link on the left. |
Government Employment Programs and Income Aid for Seniors
While some seniors are unable to work or volunteer due to issues with mobility or cognition, there are many who are able to continue contributing to their communities well into their golden years. Some older adults will continue to work to support themselves. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports "about 40 percent of people ages 55 and older were working or actively looking for work in 2014. That number, known as a labor force participation rate, is expected to increase fastest for the oldest segments of the population—most notably, people ages 65 to 74 and 75 and older—through 2024." Unfortunately, work can be difficult for seniors to secure in some cases. Mr. Levesque explains, “Ageism is stereotyping or discriminating against individuals because of their age. Employers are generally not allowed to hire, fire, or promote employees, nor decide an employee's compensation based on their age, but it can still be a real barrier to a senior looking for employment.”
The programs listed below provide assistance to seniors in search of work or volunteer opportunities. They provide services, such as career counseling and job placement.
American Job Centers/CareerOneStop
Seniors who are looking for a part-time or full-time job can inquire with representatives at American Job Centers. This organization provides a variety of career services, including:
- Job search assistance
- Resume writing
- Employment plan development
- Skill testing
- Career counseling
- Interview practice
Most American Job Centers offices can also help seniors apply for financial or nutritional benefits, such as SNAP or unemployment insurance.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
(877) 872-5627 | All seniors are eligible to receive help from this organization. | Career services can be accessed by visiting a local American Job Centers office or by calling the number to the left. |
Senior Community Service Employment Program
This program helps seniors and older adults connect with training opportunities. It's funded by the Department of Labor and is only open to unemployed seniors.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
(877) 872-5627 | To participate in this program, the following criteria must be met:
While this program is open to those aged 55 and older, priority is given to veterans, seniors over 65 and individuals with disabilities. | Seniors can apply for the Senior Community Service Employment Program by visiting a local American Job Centers office or by calling the number to the left. |
Volunteer Americorps
Seniors aged 55 and older can use their free time to serve their communities through volunteer opportunities with Volunteer Americorps. This organization features a variety of opportunities, such as grocery delivery for fellow seniors, spending time with underprivileged children or acting as a senior companion. Opportunities vary from location to location, and senior volunteers select which opportunities t. that interests them.
Seniors who participate in this program may receive stipends, supplemental health insurance and free or low-cost learning opportunities.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
(800) 942-2677 | The only requirement of this program is that seniors are at least 55 years of age. However, some volunteer opportunities may have additional requirements, such as criminal record checks. | Seniors who are interested in volunteering can direct their questions to the AmeriCorps Hotline at the number to the left or browse opportunities listed on the AmeriCorps Seniors Pathfinder. |
Supplemental Security Income
Supplemental Security Income is paid to seniors aged 65 and over whose income is below the federal poverty guidelines. In some states, the payment is topped up with an additional supplement. The amount seniors receive depends on their income, marital status and level of need.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
(800) 772-1213 | To qualify for SSI payments, seniors must:
| To apply for Supplemental Security Income, seniors can contact the Social Security Administration by calling the number to the left. |
Social Security Retirement Benefits
Retirement Benefits are funded by the Social Security Administration and the contributions made by working Americans. It provides seniors who are no longer working with a monthly income based on their highest 35 years of earning and the date they decide to apply for benefits.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
(800) 772-1213 | To qualify for Social Security Retirement Benefits, seniors must:
| Seniors can complete their application for Social Security benefits online. Those who have questions about eligibility or the application process can call the number listed to the left. |
Veteran-Specific Aid Programs
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs ensures that those who've served their country have access to the services and support they need. The following resources can help veterans with affordable living options and free health care.
VA Healthcare System
U.S. Veterans can access an array of health services by accessing the VA Healthcare System. Services provided by this agency include:
- Primary care
- Hospital care
- Specialist appointments
- Home health for seniors
- Necessary medical equipment
- Medical transportation
- Prescription drugs
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
(800) 698-2411 | This program is available to those who have served in the active military and haven't received a dishonorable discharge. Benefits are also available to spouses and dependents of beneficiaries. | Senior veterans can complete an application for VA Health care benefits online or call the MyVA411 information line by dialing the number listed to the left. |
Veterans Aid and Attendance Benefit
The Aid and Attendance benefit is exclusively available to senior military veterans or their widowed spouse. It provides funding for those who are housebound or require help with daily activities, including grooming and bathing. Seniors can use this benefit to cover the cost of home care, assisted living or memory care services.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
To qualify, veterans or their widowed spouse must require another person to help them perform activities of daily living or be bedridden, blind or receiving nursing care. | Questions about this program and applications can be directed to the senior's local VA regional office by browsing the link on the left. |
Other Government Aid Programs for Seniors
Seniors across the U.S. have access to a variety of other programs that can help them with services and activities that are typically subject to out-of-pocket spending.
America the Beautiful Senior Pass
This pass offers free lifetime access to America's national parks for aged, blind and disabled adults. The pass is valid for use by eligible seniors, as well as accompanying passengers who are riding in the same vehicle.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
This pass is only available to seniors aged 65 and older and those who have been diagnosed as legally blind or disabled. To qualify, applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. | The America the Beautiful Senior Pass can be purchased at any federal recreation site. |
Tax Credit for the Elderly and Disabled
Taxpayer credits may be provided to seniors who have an adjusted gross income or nontaxable Social Security income that's below the program's specified income limits. The credit ranges from $3,750 to $7,500.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
This tax credit is available to seniors aged 65 and older, as well as those who are blind or disabled. | No application is necessary. This credit can be claimed on any seniors' tax return, provided they meet the qualifying criteria. Any questions can be directed to the seniors' local IRS office by browsing the link to the left. |
Elder Justice Initiative
The Elder Justice Initiative helps seniors who've been abused, neglected, exploited or defrauded financially. The program is provided by the US. department of Justice and provides free or low-cost help to seniors.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply | Any senior can qualify for help from the Elder Justice Initiative. The cost is determined based on need using a sliding scale, and only those living below federal poverty guidelines qualify for free help. | To learn more or to request legal help, seniors can contact their local elder abuse agencies or call the Elder Justice Initiative using the number to the left. | (833) 372-8311 |
iCanConnect
iCanConnect helps seniors save on the cost of communications devices and equipment. While this program isn't directly able to help with the cost of housing, the equipment it provides can assist seniors in lowering their home-related expenses. This program is specifically designed to help seniors who live with significant hearing and vision loss by providing them with the devices they need to better communicate with their loved ones. Supplied devices include mobile phones, computers, signalers and braille devices.
Contact | Who's Eligible | How to Apply |
(800) 825-4595 | The following criteria must be met to qualify for this program:
| Seniors can apply for iCanConnect by visiting or calling their local program office. Any questions about the program can be answered by reaching out to iCanConnect directly at the phone number listed to the left. |
State-by-State Government Aid Guides
Find your state below to learn about available assistance programs for senior living, food programs, medical care, and more.
Expert Reviewer
Angelo Musumeci
Angelo Musumeci is a Resource Coordinator for The Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging Windham Hospital office. He provides in-home assessments, connections to services and assists with long-range planning. In times of stress, navigating the healthcare and social systems can be overwhelming. Angelo helps guide people through this complicated maze. Angelo is committed and compassionate about helping individuals and their families. He is experienced in care planning and developing individualized care strategies to promote safety and improve quality of life.
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