Washington Senior Assistance Programs, Benefits, and Grants (2025)

Key Senior Statistics in Washington (65 and over)
Senior Population: 1,339,130 (17.1%) Senior Population: 1,339,130 (17.1%)
Male: 46% Male: 46%
Female: 54% Female: 54%
Median Age: 73 Median Age: 73
Disability: 33.1% Disability: 33.1%
With Social Security Income: 87.1% With Social Security Income: 87.1%
With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 10.3% With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 10.3%
Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 9.6% Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 9.6%
Data Source: Data Source:
Data is taken from American Community Survey 2023. Please check our detailed page about Senior Statistics of Washington for more data and information.

Senior Benefits and Assistance Programs in Washington

Last updated: August 2025

Before exploring Washington-specific programs, see which senior benefits you can claim nationwide to boost your income.

If You Need Emergency Help (Start Here)

For urgent help with food, shelter, or bills, start with emergency assistance for seniors in Washington.

Nonprofits and charities that help seniors often fill urgent needs for food, rent, and home essentials.

Key Takeaways

Review key 2025 Social Security and SSI updates to estimate monthly income and check benefit changes in Washington.

  • Washington offers strong help for seniors through Apple Health (Medicaid), in‑home care programs, property tax relief, energy assistance, nutrition, and free Medicare counseling.
  • Start with your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for personalized guidance and applications: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/ALTSA/resources
  • For healthcare and long‑term care at home, look at Community First Choice (CFC), Medicaid Alternative Care (MAC), and Tailored Supports for Older Adults (TSOA): https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/long-term-services-supports
  • If you’re struggling with rent, utilities, food, or legal issues, use 2‑1‑1 and the official links in this guide to reach the right program quickly.
  • Some COVID‑era programs have ended. The Affordable Connectivity Program (internet discount) is no longer funded. Use Lifeline and low‑cost ISP plans instead.
  • Realistic timing: many benefits involve paperwork and waitlists. Apply early, respond to mail promptly, keep copies, and ask your AAA for help.

Supplement your savings with everyday senior discounts and benefits offered by major brands and utilities.


Quick Help at a Glance

Need Program (official info) Who it helps How to apply
Health coverage Apple Health (Medicaid) for seniors and people with disabilities – HCA Low/moderate income, 65+, or disabled Apply via Washington Healthplanfinder: https://www.wahealthplanfinder.org or call HCA 1‑800‑562‑3022: https://www.hca.wa.gov
Medicare counseling SHIBA – Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (OIC) Anyone with Medicare Call 1‑800‑562‑6900 or find local help: https://www.insurance.wa.gov/shiba
In‑home help Community First Choice (CFC); MAC/TSOA – ALTSA Seniors needing help with daily activities; caregivers Learn and connect via ALTSA/AAA: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/long-term-services-supports
Food Basic Food (SNAP) – DSHS Low-income households Apply online: https://www.washingtonconnection.org or call DSHS 1‑877‑501‑2233
Property taxes Senior/Disabled Property Tax Exemption & Deferral – Dept. of Revenue 61+ or disabled, within income limits Start here: https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/property-tax-senior-disabled-exemption
Utilities (heat/power) LIHEAP – Dept. of Commerce Low-income households Find your local agency: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/growing-the-economy/energy/low-income-home-energy-assistance/
Rent & housing stability HEN (Housing & Essential Needs) – Commerce; local rent help via 2‑1‑1 Low-income adults unable to work 90+ days; local programs vary HEN info and providers: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/serving-communities/housing/housing-and-essential-needs/; also call 2‑1‑1
Transportation to care Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation – HCA Apple Health/CHIP members Find your broker: https://www.hca.wa.gov/free-or-low-cost-health-care/i-need-medical-dental-or-vision-care/transportation-services-nonemergency
Prescriptions ArrayRx Discount Card – HCA Anyone; no cost Enroll: https://www.arrayrxcard.com
Legal help CLEAR Senior line – Northwest Justice Project Washingtonians 60+ Call 1‑888‑387‑7111 or visit https://nwjustice.org/get-legal-help

According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey, about 1.34 million Washingtonians are age 65+ (roughly 17.1% of the state). Source: Census Bureau ACS 2023 (table S0101): https://data.census.gov/table?q=S0101:+Washington&t=Age+and+Sex

Prepare for the unexpected by reviewing emergency assistance for seniors available in Washington.


Getting Personalized Help

Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), Information & Assistance (I&A), and ADRCs

  • Find your local AAA: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/ALTSA/resources
  • What they do: assess your needs, explain options, help with applications (Medicaid, meals, home care, caregiver support), and connect you to local programs.
  • Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) offer unbiased options counseling and referrals.

Your local Area Agencies on Aging in Washington can connect you to free case management, meals, and emergency funding.

If you’re relocating or helping family in another state, use our Area Agencies on Aging directory to find local help anywhere.

Tip: If paperwork feels overwhelming, ask AAA/I&A for help. Keep copies of IDs, Social Security cards, proof of income, bank statements, and lease/utility bills.


Healthcare, Medicare, and Long‑Term Care

Those with limited income may qualify for Medicaid for seniors, which covers essential medical and home care costs.

Medicare help (free, unbiased)

  • SHIBA (Office of the Insurance Commissioner): Compare plans, find savings (Extra Help, Medicare Savings Programs), and fix billing issues. Call 1‑800‑562‑6900 or visit https://www.insurance.wa.gov/shiba

Apple Health (Medicaid) for seniors and people with disabilities

If you’re on both Medicare and Medicaid, our Dual Eligible Guide for Seniors explains how to maximize your coverage.

Reality check: Financial and functional eligibility rules are detailed and change over time. If your income or assets are a bit over the limits, ask about “spenddown,” Miller Trusts (Qualified Income Trusts), or spousal impoverishment protections. SHIBA or your AAA can explain.

In‑home care and supports (Aging and Long‑Term Support Administration – ALTSA)

You can borrow or replace essential mobility aids through free medical equipment for seniors programs.

Transportation to medical care

Prescription savings

  • ArrayRx Discount Card (no cost): A multi‑state program led by HCA providing prescription discounts. Enroll here: https://www.arrayrxcard.com

Use free prescription assistance for seniors programs to lower medication costs through national and state partners.

Dental care

For dental care, cleanings, and dentures, check dental grants in Washington for free or low-cost clinics.

You can also use nationwide programs for free and low-cost dental care for seniors, including DDS, clinics, and dental schools.

Table: Health and Long‑Term Care Programs

Program What it does Who it’s for Where to learn/apply
SHIBA Free Medicare counseling Anyone with Medicare https://www.insurance.wa.gov/shiba
Apple Health (Medicaid) Medical, dental, vision, Rx Low/moderate income seniors & disabled https://www.hca.wa.gov
Community First Choice (CFC) In‑home personal care and supports Apple Health members needing help with daily tasks https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/long-term-services-supports/community-first-choice-cfc
MAC / TSOA Supports for unpaid caregivers; services for older adults not on Medicaid Adults 55+ and caregivers https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/long-term-services-supports
NEMT Rides to covered medical appointments Apple Health/CHIP members https://www.hca.wa.gov/…/transportation-services-nonemergency
ArrayRx Prescription discounts Anyone (free card) https://www.arrayrxcard.com

If you need continuous medical or in-home care, explore long-term care options for seniors available in your area.


Money, Cash, and Basic Needs

If you’re struggling to make ends meet, learn about financial assistance for seniors programs for direct grants and monthly aid.

Basic Food (SNAP)

If groceries are a concern, food assistance for seniors programs like SNAP and Meals on Wheels can make a big difference.

Senior nutrition programs

Cash assistance (limited and situation‑specific)

If a loved one helps you at home, review resources for family caregivers for training and small financial stipends.

Reality check: ABD and HEN benefits are limited and may have waitlists. Keep all mail from DSHS and providers and respond quickly.


Housing, Rent Help, and Home Repairs

Explore housing assistance for seniors in Washington for rent subsidies, repair grants, and weatherization support.

Rental help and homelessness prevention

If you’re struggling with monthly rent, review housing & rent assistance programs for seniors for federal and local options.

Homeowners: property tax relief (Washington Dept. of Revenue)

Table: Property Tax Relief Options

Program Key points Where to apply
Senior/Disabled Exemption Reduces/waives part of property tax; age 61+ or disabled; income thresholds vary by county County Assessor (start at Dept. of Revenue page): https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/property-tax-senior-disabled-exemption
Senior/Disabled Deferral Defers taxes; repaid with interest when home is sold/estate settled County Assessor; overview: https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/property-tax-deferral

Tip: Call your County Assessor’s office for help filling out forms. Many allow year‑round applications.

Home repairs and weatherization

Keep your home safe and accessible with home repair grants for seniors, available through HUD and local nonprofits.

Not sure about eligibility, inspections, or timelines? Our home repair grants FAQs walk through common scenarios.

Reality check: Home repair grants are competitive and funding is limited. Apply early, respond to requests for documents, and be flexible on scheduling.


Utilities, Phone, and Internet

If high energy bills are a burden, look into energy and utility assistance for seniors to cut your monthly costs.

Long-term savings are possible through energy efficiency grants for seniors, which fund weatherization and appliance upgrades.

Table: Utility and Communications Discounts

Support What it covers Where to apply
LIHEAP Heating/electric bill help; emergency assistance https://www.commerce.wa.gov/…/low-income-home-energy-assistance/
Weatherization Free energy‑saving home upgrades https://www.commerce.wa.gov/…/weatherization-and-energy-efficiency/
Lifeline Phone/broadband discount https://www.lifelinesupport.org/do-i-qualify/
Local utility discounts Discounts vary by utility (examples: Seattle City Light/Utility Discount Program; Tacoma Public Utilities; Puget Sound Energy) Seattle UDP: https://www.seattle.gov/humanservices/services-and-programs/utility-discount-program; Tacoma: https://mytpu.org/community/assistance-programs/; PSE: https://www.pse.com/account-and-billing/payment-assistance

Transportation and Mobility

If transportation is a barrier, transportation support for seniors programs provide free or discounted rides.


Safety, Legal, and Consumer Protection

Skip ‘guaranteed grant’ offers—read free money myths, scams, and real help.

Table: Legal and Safety Helplines

Topic Helpline Learn more
Abuse/neglect/exploitation APS: 1‑877‑734‑6277 https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/aps
Problems in long‑term care Ombudsman https://www.waombudsman.org
General civil legal help (60+) CLEAR Senior: 1‑888‑387‑7111 https://nwjustice.org/get-legal-help
Eviction defense 1‑855‑657‑8387 (OCLA) https://ocla.wa.gov/…/eviction-right-to-counsel/
Consumer scams Attorney General https://www.atg.wa.gov

Use our Federal Poverty Level benefits checklist to prep income proofs and documents before applying.


Taxes, Money Management, and Benefits Checkups

Save hundreds each year by applying for property tax relief for seniors, offered by Washington counties.


Inclusive Resources

Veterans and Military Families

Many programs set limits by the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)—check where your household fits.

Reality check: VA benefits decisions can be slow. Keep medical evidence organized and work with a WDVA service officer.

LGBTQ+ Seniors

  • GenPride (Seattle/King County): Classes, support groups, and referrals for LGBTQ+ older adults. https://genprideseattle.org
  • Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Trained to advocate for residents’ rights, including LGBTQ+ issues: https://www.waombudsman.org
  • Anti‑discrimination: Washington law protects against discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations. Learn more: Washington State Human Rights Commission: https://www.hum.wa.gov

Seniors with Disabilities

Don’t overlook mental health support for seniors, which includes counseling and group programs across Washington.

Tribal and Urban Native Elders

Tip: Ask your AAA and tribal elder program about combining Title VI meals with local senior meal sites.

Rural Seniors and Limited Access Areas

  • Use 2‑1‑1 and your AAA to find volunteer driver programs, dial‑a‑ride, mobile food pantries, and traveling health clinics.
  • Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) can arrange long‑distance rides and ferry/air when medically necessary: https://www.hca.wa.gov/…/transportation-services-nonemergency
  • USDA Section 504 and Weatherization can be especially valuable for rural homeowners (see links above).

Resources by Region (Selected)

Note: Each region has an Area Agency on Aging (AAA). Use the AAA locator to confirm your office: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/ALTSA/resources

If your county isn’t listed: call 2‑1‑1 or use the AAA locator to find local contacts.

Connect with senior centers in Washington for help applying to benefit programs and accessing social services.

In the Seattle area, our Seattle senior assistance page lists local offices, phone numbers, and programs.

If you live near the border, compare grants for seniors in Oregon to see regional differences.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. How do I know if I qualify for Apple Health (Medicaid) as a senior?
  1. I have Medicare. Can I also get Apple Health?
  • Yes, if you meet financial criteria. Apple Health can help pay Medicare premiums and, in some cases, provide additional benefits. Ask SHIBA about Medicare Savings Programs and Apple Health: https://www.insurance.wa.gov/shiba
  1. What’s the fastest way to find local rent or utility help?
  1. Is there still Emergency Rental Assistance from COVID funds?
  • The large state COVID-era programs have ended. Some local rent help continues through counties, cities, and charities. Use 2-1-1 and ask your AAA or Community Action Agency.
  1. How do I get help to stay in my home instead of a nursing facility?
  1. What’s the property tax break for seniors?
  1. Can I get a ride to medical appointments?
  1. Where can I get free or low‑cost dental care?
  1. I’m a veteran. Who can help me file for benefits?
  1. I’m being scammed or pressured over the phone. What should I do?
  • Hang up. Report it to the WA Attorney General’s Office: https://www.atg.wa.gov. If you shared personal info, consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus.

Sources and Official References


Disclaimer

Programs, eligibility rules, funding levels, and application processes can change. Always confirm details with the official agency or organization linked in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, financial, or medical advice.


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: August 2025
  • Sources Verified: August 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.