We’ve found 7 programs that help seniors around the country! We’ve saved some of our best resources for last, so be sure to stick around for the end of the list.
Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program
Did you know that low income seniors can get coupons for free food from farmer’s markets, roadside stands and community supported agriculture programs?! This incredible program provides free food vouchers for low income seniors who are at least 60 years old and who earn less than 185% of the US Poverty Guidelines. In 2021, that’s $23,828 for one person or $32,227 for a couple. Apply with your local state agency, usually the one in charge of WIC or Food Stamps.
SNAP
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as food stamps, can provide valuable food benefits to seniors. Although it isn’t limited to seniors, the program has special rules for people who are at least 60 years old or disabled. In many areas, you can even qualify for a special simplified application called ESAP, which makes it easier for seniors to get food benefits.
In 2021, the maximum SNAP benefit is $204 for an individual or $374 for a couple. If you have more people in your household, you may be eligible for even more benefits!
LIHEAP
Utilities can be expensive, but there are programs that can help! These programs are operated by the states and are usually known as LIHEAP or just HEAP. With these programs, you can receive hundreds of dollars (sometimes up to $1,000) toward your utility bills!
We’ve found senior discounts on utilities and more! Details here.
Free Legal Aid
There are free legal aid organizations across the United States that help seniors with benefits applications, legal counsel, healthcare advocacy and estate planning. These services include Wills on Wheels, AARP’s Legal Counsel for the Elderly, Serving Our Seniors and more. We have a list of free legal aid programs here.
Property Tax Exemptions
Property taxes can be very stressful – especially when they increase with the value of your home! Fortunately, many states offer property tax exemptions for seniors. We have a list of areas with exemptions at LowIncomeRelief.com.
Supplemental Security Income
SSI is available to anyone who is at least 65 years old and low income. In 2021, this program can provide up to $794 for one person or $1,191 for a couple. Some states add even more money to the monthly payment! In order to qualify for SSI, you must meet income and asset limits. These limits aren’t as straightforward as many people think, though. For example, you can own your own home and car outright and still qualify for SSI!
Health Care and Prescription Assistance Programs
Health care costs can be expensive, but there are many programs that help seniors with health care expenses. These include Medicare, Medicaid and many pharmaceutical assistance programs.
Medicare is an age-based program that helps people age 65 and older. Medicaid is an income-based program that helps low income people. You can be dual eligible and use both of these programs at once!
In addition, you can save money on your medications through pharmaceutical assistance programs. Many states have their own pharmaceutical assistance programs and many manufacturers also offer assistance, too.
We’ve found more help!
I’m going to be honest with you. We’ve actually found way more than 7 programs that help seniors in the United States. Visit our seniors archive to find even more ways to save money and get free stuff!