Millions of seniors in America live on fixed incomes. This means they get a set amount of money per month, often from social security, and they don’t get any more beyond that. Even if their bills go up or there is something that unexpectedly come up. The good news is there are programs that provide financial help for seniors with little income. Once you know about them you can apply for the programs and see if you can get approved.
If you get approval for the programs that provide financial help for seniors you will be able to have assistance paying for bills. Many of the programs will provide help with paying for things that meet your basic needs, including food, shelter, and energy bills. No matter what type of financial assistance you need, there is a good chance there is a program that can help you with it.
Getting Financial Assistance
There are some helpful programs around the country that will give seniors assistance. They usually do require that the person meet the low income guidelines in order to get the help. Some of them may limit how long you can receive the help, while others will allow you to get it for as long as you continue to meet the qualifications for the program.
Apply for as many programs as you feel qualified for, because there is no limit on how many you can apply for or receive assistance from. Applying for multiple programs and contacting various agencies will help ensure that your basic needs are met and you are getting the financial assistance you need as a senior.
Medicare – This program is federally funded and will provide financial help for seniors to pay for their medical bills. Those who are approved will receive assistance paying for their hospital, doctor, and other medical bills, including dental and vision bills. They will also help pay for prescription drugs. To qualify for the program, you have to be age 65 and up to qualify for Medicare. If you are a senior that is under 65, you will wants to apply for the Medicaid program, which is similar, but for those who are not yet 65. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program will provide financial help for seniors to get their energy bills paid. If you need help paying for your heating or cooling bills you can apply for this program and if you are approved they will send the payment for your bill directly to the energy provider. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements and be the person responsible for paying the bill. To get more information and apply, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – With the skyrocketing food prices, many seniors need help purchasing groceries. Those who have a low income may qualify for this program, which used to be called food stamps. The program will provide those who qualify with a card that can be used to pay for their groceries at the store or some farmers markets. The amount that you will receive each month is determined by how many dependents are in the home. There is no limit to how long you can receive help through this program. You can apply for SNAP online or at your local social services department office. To get more information and apply, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This program is part of the federal government and they have a mission of helping people with their housing needs. They will help seniors find affordable housing options, pay for necessary home repairs, and provide public housing options. They will also provide assistance paying for rent for those who have a low income. To get more information you have to contact the HUD office in your state. To find your state’s office, click here.
General Assistance – This is a program that is similar to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), but it is for those who do not have any children living in the home. The program will provide adults who qualify with a small cash grant that can be used to pay for living costs. To qualify you have to meet the low income requirements. To get more information and apply, click here.
Lifeline – This program will help make your phone more affordable each month. Those who qualify will get a discounted rate on their monthly bill, with the federal government paying for the rest of it. To get more information about the program and apply, click here.
Salvation Army – With locations around the country, this organization is a good option for seniors who need financial help. They offer numerous programs to help people in the community. They provide food, clothing, shelter, and more. To find a location near you, click here.
Catholic Charities – This program is similar to Salvation Army. Contact the locations near you to see what type of financial assistance they can offer for seniors. To find location near you, click here.
211 – This is a number provided by the organization the United Way. They offer a free referral program that can be used by anyone in the country. You can call the number to get referrals to programs that can help you in your area. To get more information about the program, click here.
Churches – Contact the churches in your area. They usually have a variety of programs that will help people in the community. They will usually provide free food, clothing, and other household items. They may also help with bill payment assistance. Find out what programs they offer for seniors in your area who need financial help. They should be able to help you through their church, or be able to provide you with some local referrals to programs that you can rely on for assistance. You do not have be religious or a member of the church to get assistance from them.
