7 Monthly Bills Low Income Seniors May Not Need to Pay

Living on a fixed income is hard—especially when your bills keep climbing while your income stays the same. If you’re a low income senior, there’s some good news: there are several monthly expenses you might not need to pay at all. From health care costs to home repairs, let’s walk through seven types of bills you may be able to avoid—and what you need to know to get help.

Medicare & Medication Costs

If you’re watching your Social Security check shrink due to Medicare premiums, you’re not alone. But if your income is limited, you may be able to get those premiums covered through a Medicare Savings Program. Depending on the program, they might also help with deductibles and co-insurance. These programs include QMB, SLMB, and QI. Yes, those acronyms are confusing—but don’t worry. You don’t have to figure it out alone.

Extra Help is another federal program that can lower your prescription drug costs under Medicare Part D. It can remove deductibles, cut co-pays, and even eliminate your premiums.

Because Medicare is so complicated, we recommend reaching out to our sponsor, Chapter, for free one-on-one support. They specialize in helping people understand and enroll in the best plans for their needs. You can also download their free book, It’s Not That Complicated: The Three Medicare Decisions to Protect Your Health and Money.

Free Phone Plans

You might not need to pay for cell phone service at all. If you meet the income limits, the Lifeline program can give you a discount of up to $9.25 per month—or even more if you live on Tribal lands. Some Lifeline providers offer plans that are completely free after the discount is applied, and some even include a free smartphone.

Check our free cell phone providers list to see which companies offer service in your area and find the best plan for your needs.

Income and Property Tax Relief

Most low income seniors don’t owe income taxes. Thanks to a recent update, there’s a new $6,000 senior tax deduction for people age 65 and older that will remain available through 2028. And if you do need to file, AARP offers free tax preparation assistance through their Tax-Aide program for people over 50.

Property taxes can be an even bigger burden, but many states and counties offer exemptions, deferrals, and other relief options. These can lower your tax bill or postpone it until the home is sold or transferred. Some programs even offer refunds for past overpayments. Since rules vary widely by location, you’ll need to contact your local assessor’s office to learn what’s available to you.

Free Gyms & Senior Transportation

Original Medicare doesn’t cover gym memberships, but many Medicare Advantage or Medigap plans do. If you’re enrolled in one of these plans, you might qualify for a free membership through programs like SilverSneakers, Renew Active, or Silver & Fit. Just call your insurance provider to find out what’s included and which gyms are in-network.

Transportation help is also more accessible than many people realize. Some transit agencies offer reduced or free fares for seniors. In certain areas, low income seniors may qualify for door-to-door shuttle services. These options can make a big difference, so it’s worth calling your local transit office to see what’s available near you.

Home Repairs for Seniors

A leaky roof or broken heater can be stressful—but you might not have to pay out of pocket. There are local programs that offer free home repairs or modifications for seniors. These services often prioritize safety upgrades like grab bars, ramps, and basic plumbing or electrical work.

Try reaching out to programs like the Weatherization Assistance Program, Habitat for Humanity’s home repair initiatives, or Rebuilding Together. You can also call the Elder Care Locator at 1-800-677-1116 to find additional local programs.

Old Debts You May Not Owe

Debt collectors often target seniors, but just because someone says you owe money doesn’t mean you actually do—or that you need to pay it. Every state has a statute of limitations on debt collection, typically between three and six years for things like credit card or medical debt. After that time, collectors can’t sue you for payment.

However, if you make even a small payment on an old debt, it could restart the clock. That’s why it’s important to know your rights. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you can send a cease and desist letter to stop collection calls. Our sponsor, SoloSuit, offers a free template for this on their website.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by collection attempts, consider reaching out to HELPS Law Group. They specialize in helping seniors and disabled individuals protect their Social Security and pension income from aggressive collectors. They never turn anyone away due to an inability to pay.

Your Benefits Are Protected from Garnishment

Even if you owe money, your Social Security and VA benefits are protected by law from garnishment by debt collectors. Some pensions are also protected. As long as you don’t keep more than twice your monthly benefit amount in your bank account, your funds should be safe.

Some people online claim that you don’t have to pay any unsecured debts you can’t afford, like credit cards or medical bills. While it’s true that collectors can’t garnish your protected income, not paying can still damage your credit score. If you’re considering stopping payments, it’s always a good idea to talk to a legal expert first.

HELPS Law Group is a good place to start, especially if you’re being harassed by collectors. They’re committed to helping seniors maintain financial stability and peace of mind.

Relief Recap

If you’re a low income senior, you don’t have to navigate all of this alone. From Medicare savings and free phone plans to debt protection and home repairs, there are many programs designed to help you live with less financial stress. Knowing what’s available—and taking the time to apply—can make a world of difference.

Remember, the sooner you seek help, the more options you may have. Whether you call your local assessor’s office, connect with Chapter or HELPS, or browse our seniors page for more ways low income seniors can save money and get free stuff, don’t wait. Support is out there, and you deserve it.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the content on this website are solely those of the content creators and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or positions of the Social Security Administration, Medicare, Chapter, or its affiliates. Chapter makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided. All content is intended for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes only and should not be interpreted as official positions of the Social Security Administration, Medicare, Chapter, or its affiliates. Chapter disclaims any liability for actions taken based on this content.

If you need assistance with Medicare, please reach out to Medicare, your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP), your current Medicare insurance agent/broker/plan, or contact our Medicare partner, Chapter, at 417-319-2139 or visit their website at https://lirlinks.com/chapter. Chapter: Memoir, Inc. d/b/a Chapter is a privately owned, data- and technology-enabled advisory service helping older Americans navigate retirement. Insurance agency services are provided by Chapter Advisory, LLC, a licensed health insurance agency and wholly owned subsidiary of Memoir, Inc. In California, Chapter Advisory, LLC does business as Chapter Insurance Services (Lic. No. 6003691).Chapter and its affiliates are not connected with or endorsed by any government entity or the federal Medicare program. Chapter Advisory, LLC represents Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO, and PFFS organizations as well as stand-alone prescription drug plans with Medicare contracts. Enrollment depends on the renewal of those contracts. While Chapter maintains a comprehensive database of Medicare plans nationwide and assists in searching all options, Chapter has contracts with many, but not all, plans. Therefore, Chapter does not offer every plan available in your area. Chapter recommends plans even if they are not directly offered through Chapter. For complete Medicare plan options, please visit Medicare.gov, call 1-800-Medicare, or contact your local SHIP office.