Grants for Seniors in Louisville

Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Louisville, Kentucky (2026 Guide)

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated:

This guide is tailored to older adults living in Louisville/Jefferson County. It brings together the most useful local, state, and federal programs in one place, with direct links and clear steps to apply.

If You Need Emergency Help

Key Takeaways

  • Louisville seniors can combine city resources (Louisville Metro), regional services (KIPDA Area Agency on Aging), and state programs (kynect for Medicaid/SNAP, Homestead Exemption) to reduce housing, food, utility, and healthcare costs.
  • Start with the Jefferson County Homestead Exemption (age 65+) for property tax relief, SNAP for food help through kynect, and KIPDA for Meals on Wheels and in-home services.
  • Transportation is available but can be limited: use TARC discounted fares, TARC3 paratransit (if eligible), and Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for medical rides.
  • Expect waitlists for housing vouchers and some in-home care programs; apply early and keep documents ready.
  • Get free, unbiased Medicare counseling from SHIIP before changing plans, and use official city and state portals to avoid scams.

How to Use This Guide

  • Look for “How to Apply” and “Reality Check” boxes under each program.
  • Use the tables to compare benefits and find the right contact fast.
  • Prefer official government or well-established nonprofit links for applications and eligibility.

Quick Help Directory (Louisville/Jefferson County)

Need Who to Contact Phone Apply/Info
Find local programs fast Louisville Metro Resilience & Community Services (502) 574-5050 https://louisvilleky.gov/government/resilience-and-community-services
Area Agency on Aging (KIPDA) KIPDA AAAIL (serves Jefferson & nearby counties) (502) 266-5571 https://www.kipda.org/aging-disability/
Property tax relief (65+) Jefferson County PVA – Homestead Exemption (502) 574-6380 https://jeffersonpva.ky.gov/
Housing vouchers/public housing Louisville Metro Housing Authority (LMHA) (502) 569-3400 https://www.lmha1.org/
Food assistance (SNAP) kynect Benefits 1-855-459-6328 https://kynect.ky.gov/benefits
Utility bill help (LIHEAP) Louisville Metro LIHEAP (502) 991-8391 https://louisvilleky.gov/government/resilience-and-community-services/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap
Transit & paratransit TARC / TARC3 (502) 585-1234 / (502) 213-3217 https://www.ridetarc.org
Medicaid NEMT rides Kentucky NEMT 1-866-434-7268 https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/member/Pages/transportation.aspx
Medicare counseling Kentucky SHIIP 1-877-293-7447 https://insurance.ky.gov/ppc/shiip.aspx
Legal help Legal Aid Society (Louisville) (502) 584-1254 https://www.yourlegalaid.org

Sources: Official agency websites linked above.

What Documents You’ll Usually Need

Bring these to most applications. Keeping a folder with copies speeds things up.

Document Why it’s needed
Government photo ID (KY driver’s license or state ID) Identity and age verification
Social Security card and current award letter Benefit and ID verification
Proof of KY residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage) Eligibility for local/state programs
Proof of income (last 30–60 days) Eligibility and benefit calculation
Bank statements (last 3 months) Asset verification for some programs
Medicare/Medicaid card (if any) Coverage coordination
Medical records (for HCB Waiver, disability) Care level determination
Property deed/mortgage statement (if homeowner) Homestead Exemption, repair programs

Tip: Ask agencies if photo uploads or mailed copies are acceptable. Keep stamped receipts or confirmation numbers.

Property Tax Relief for Louisville Seniors

Homestead Exemption (Jefferson County)

Kentucky’s Homestead Exemption reduces the taxable value of your primary home. For 2025–2026, the exemption is $49,100 statewide.

How to apply

  • Apply the calendar year you turn 65 (it applies for that year). Submit the PVA application with your KY ID and proof of age/residency.
  • Phone: (502) 574-6380 (Jefferson County PVA)

Reality check

  • You don’t need to reapply each year (age-based).
  • If applying for the disability exemption (under 65), documentation and periodic re-verification are required.

Healthcare and Long-Term Care

Medicaid (including Medicare Savings Programs)

  • What it covers: Doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, durable medical equipment, and more. MSPs (QMB, SLMB, QI) can pay Medicare Part B premiums and other costs if income-eligible.
  • Eligibility and application: Apply at Kentucky’s kynect portal: https://kynect.ky.gov/benefits or call 1-855-459-6328.
  • Program info: Kentucky Medicaid Member Services: https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/Pages/default.aspx

Reality check

  • Document uploads can be tricky online—use a library, senior center, or ask KIPDA for help if needed.
  • Processing can take 30–45 days; respond quickly to any “proof needed” letters.

Home and Community Based (HCB) Waiver

  • What it does: Provides in-home care, adult day health, personal care, home modifications, and case management so you can avoid or delay nursing home placement.
  • Eligibility: Must meet a nursing facility level of care and financial limits; participant-directed services let you hire eligible family caregivers.
  • Apply: Through kynect (https://kynect.ky.gov/benefits) or call (855) 459-6328. State info: https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dhcbs/Pages/hcb.aspx

Reality check

  • Expect a waiting list and 90–180 days for full approval. Keep medical records and a detailed list of daily care needs ready.

Free Medicare Counseling (SHIIP)

Low-Cost Clinics in Louisville (FQHCs)

Tip

  • Ask about sliding fee scales and the 340B prescription discount program at FQHCs.

Money and Income Supports

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

  • What it does: Monthly cash for older adults (65+) or disabled adults with very limited income and resources. SSI usually qualifies you for Medicaid.
  • Apply: Social Security Administration at https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/ or call 1-800-772-1213.

Social Security retirement benefits

Utility and Phone/Internet Discounts

Reality check

  • The former federal Affordable Connectivity Program stopped accepting new enrollments in 2024 due to funding. Ask your provider about low-cost senior plans or Lifeline.

Food and Nutrition

Program What it provides Who to contact How to apply/info
SNAP (Food Stamps) Monthly EBT benefits to buy groceries kynect Benefits https://kynect.ky.gov/benefits or 1-855-459-6328
Meals on Wheels & Congregate Meals Home-delivered meals for homebound seniors and hot meals at senior sites KIPDA AAAIL / Louisville Metro Senior Nutrition KIPDA: https://www.kipda.org/aging-disability/nutrition/ and City program: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/resilience-and-community-services/senior-nutrition-program
Food pantries Groceries from partner pantries across Louisville Dare to Care Food Bank Find pantries: https://daretocare.org/get-help/
Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) Seasonal produce vouchers for eligible seniors Kentucky Dept. of Agriculture / KIPDA USDA overview: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp and check local distribution via KIPDA

Tips

  • For SNAP, claim out-of-pocket medical costs over $35/month to possibly increase your benefit (see SNAP deductions rules at USDA: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/eligible-deductions).
  • Meals on Wheels may have a waitlist in some neighborhoods—apply early and ask about temporary pantry options.

Housing: Rent, Repairs, and Accessibility

Program Type Who it helps Apply/Info
Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (LMHA) Rent voucher Very low-income households; seniors given preference in some lists Louisville Metro Housing Authority: https://www.lmha1.org/
Public Housing (LMHA) Subsidized apartments Very low-income; seniors/disabled sites available https://www.lmha1.org/
Louisville Metro Home Repair Programs Critical and emergency repairs, accessibility modifications (ramps, grab bars) Low- to moderate-income owner-occupants Louisville Office of Housing: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/housing
Weatherization Assistance Energy-saving upgrades at no cost Income-eligible homeowners and renters Community Action KY: https://www.capky.org/weatherization/ (ask for Jefferson County)
Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) Statewide repair, weatherization, and rental help in some cases Low- to moderate-income https://www.kyhousing.org

How to apply (local notes)

  • LMHA waitlists open/close periodically; check the LMHA website and sign up for notifications.
  • For city-funded home repair, see eligibility on the Louisville Office of Housing page and call before you apply to confirm current funding windows.

Reality check

  • Expect waitlists for vouchers and public housing. Rural county programs nearby may have shorter waits but fewer units.
  • For accessibility modifications, ask about “Home Access” or “Emergency Repair” and be ready with income documentation and proof of ownership or landlord approval.

Utilities and Home Energy Assistance

Reality check

  • LIHEAP funds are limited and first-come, first-served. Book an appointment as soon as the season opens, and keep your utility bill, ID, and proof of income ready.

Transportation in Louisville

Service What it offers Who it serves How to use
TARC fixed-route buses City and countywide routes All riders; seniors get reduced fare Routes, fares, IDs: https://www.ridetarc.org
TARC3 Paratransit Door-to-door service Riders with disabilities who can’t use fixed routes Eligibility & scheduling: https://www.ridetarc.org/services/tarc3/ or (502) 213-3217
Medicaid NEMT Rides to medical appointments and pharmacies KY Medicaid members with no other ride Schedule: 1-866-434-7268; info: https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/member/Pages/transportation.aspx
Volunteer/community rides Limited rides to medical or essential trips Varies by nonprofit and church Ask KIPDA: https://www.kipda.org/aging-disability/ (they can refer locally)

Tips

  • Schedule TARC3 and NEMT at least 72 hours in advance when possible.
  • Ask your clinic about telehealth to reduce travel for routine visits.

Legal and Consumer Protection

Reality check

  • Red flags: Upfront fees for benefits help, pressure to “sign today,” and requests for gift cards or wire transfers. Government programs do not charge application fees.

Special Populations and Inclusive Resources

Disabled Seniors

Tip

  • Ask about Participant-Directed Services in the HCB Waiver to hire approved family caregivers.

Veteran Seniors

Tip

  • Bring your DD214 and medical evidence to appointments. KDVA representatives can help gather and submit records.

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Tip

Tribal/Native American Seniors

  • Kentucky has no federally recognized tribes, but Native seniors living in Louisville may receive services through federal or tribal programs depending on enrollment.
  • Nashville Area Indian Health Service (covers Kentucky) can guide you to available resources: https://www.ihs.gov/nashville/
  • Check with your tribe’s elders program and benefits office for possible assistance and referrals.

Rural Seniors Near Louisville (KIPDA Region)

If you live in surrounding counties (Bullitt, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble, Henry) and come to Louisville for services:

Reality check

  • Rural routes may have fewer providers and longer waits. Ask about telehealth at local clinics and pharmacy delivery where available.

How to Apply (and Succeed)

  1. Get your documents together (see the checklist above).
  2. Start with benefits that give the biggest relief soonest:
    • Homestead Exemption (if you own your home)
    • SNAP (food)
    • Medicaid/Medicare Savings Programs
    • LIHEAP (during open season)
  3. Apply through official portals:
  4. Ask for help:
  5. Track everything: Keep a simple notebook with dates, contact names, and confirmation numbers.
  6. Follow up: If you don’t hear back within stated timelines, call and politely check status.

Common Louisville Senior Programs at a Glance

Program Typical Benefit Where to Apply Reality Check
Homestead Exemption Cuts taxable home value by $49,100 (2025–26) Jefferson County PVA: https://jeffersonpva.ky.gov One-time application for age-based exemption
HCB Waiver In-home care and supports kynect: https://kynect.ky.gov/benefits Waiting list likely; start ASAP
SNAP Monthly food benefits via EBT card kynect: https://kynect.ky.gov/benefits Claim medical deductions to boost benefit
LIHEAP Seasonal utility assistance Louisville Metro RCS: LIHEAP page Funds limited; book early
Section 8 (LMHA) Pay ~30% of income toward rent LMHA: https://www.lmha1.org/ Lists open/close; expect wait
SHIIP Free Medicare counseling SHIIP: https://insurance.ky.gov/ppc/shiip.aspx Unbiased help; book during open enrollment
TARC/TARC3 Transit and paratransit https://www.ridetarc.org Paratransit requires eligibility approval

Neighborhood and Community Resources

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How do I apply for the Homestead Exemption in Louisville?
A: Contact the Jefferson County PVA at (502) 574-6380 or visit https://jeffersonpva.ky.gov to submit your application with your KY ID and proof you live in the home. You can apply the year you turn 65.

Q2: Where do I apply for SNAP and Medicaid?
A: Apply online through Kentucky’s kynect portal at https://kynect.ky.gov/benefits or call 1-855-459-6328. If you need help, KIPDA AAAIL (502-266-5571) and Neighborhood Place sites can assist.

Q3: Who handles Meals on Wheels in Louisville?
A: KIPDA AAAIL and Louisville Metro Senior Nutrition coordinate home-delivered meals. Start at KIPDA: https://www.kipda.org/aging-disability/nutrition/ or the city’s Senior Nutrition Program page: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/resilience-and-community-services/senior-nutrition-program

Q4: I can’t use the regular bus. How do I get paratransit?
A: Apply for TARC3 eligibility. Details and forms are at https://www.ridetarc.org/services/tarc3/ or call (502) 213-3217. For medical appointments and pharmacy trips, Medicaid members can use NEMT at 1-866-434-7268.

Q5: How do I find low-cost dentists?
A: Try UofL School of Dentistry teaching clinics (https://louisville.edu/dentistry/patients) and FQHCs like Family Health Centers (https://www.fhclouisville.org). Ask about sliding fee scales.

Q6: What if LMHA’s Section 8 list is closed?
A: Check back regularly and sign up for alerts on https://www.lmha1.org. Also consider public housing or senior-designated buildings. KHC (https://www.kyhousing.org) lists other subsidized options.

Q7: I was denied for HCB Waiver. Can I appeal?
A: Yes. Follow instructions in your denial letter or call (855) 459-6328 for appeal steps. Legal Aid Society can help with appeals: https://www.yourlegalaid.org.

Q8: Who can help me understand my Medicare options?
A: SHIIP provides free, unbiased counseling. Call 1-877-293-7447 or visit https://insurance.ky.gov/ppc/shiip.aspx.

Q9: I need help paying my LG&E and water bills.
A: Apply for LIHEAP through Louisville Metro RCS (https://louisvilleky.gov/government/resilience-and-community-services/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap). Also see LG&E customer assistance (https://lge-ku.com/assistance) and Louisville Water’s “Drops of Kindness” (https://louisvillewater.com/customer-assistance/).

Q10: I suspect a scam targeting seniors. What do I do?
A: Hang up, do not pay, and report to the KY Attorney General (https://www.ag.ky.gov/consumer-protection/Pages/default.aspx) and the FTC (https://reportfraud.ftc.gov). If money was sent, contact your bank immediately.

Resources by Region (KIPDA Area)

KIPDA Area Agency on Aging & Independent Living serves Louisville/Jefferson County and nearby counties (Bullitt, Henry, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble).

Disclaimer

Program details, eligibility rules, and funding availability can change. Always confirm the most current information with the official agency or program linked in this guide. This guide is for educational purposes and does not substitute for advice from government agencies or legal professionals.

About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

  • Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
  • Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
  • Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

  • Last Updated: December 2025
  • Sources Verified: December 2025
  • Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.

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About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.