Emergency Assistance for Seniors in Texas

Last updated: January 09, 2026

This Texas-specific guide shows you where to call, what to ask for, and how to apply when you need help now. It includes statewide programs, local contacts, and realistic steps that work in Texas. Links go to official government or well‑established sources.

---

Quick Help Box — Start Here

If you are in danger or need immediate help, use these first.

—

For a statewide roundup of programs you can use beyond emergencies, see our Texas seniors assistance hub.

What this guide covers (and how to use it)

• First, the emergency steps you can take today.
• Then, detailed help for food, housing, utilities, healthcare, transportation, legal, disaster recovery, and cash.
• Inclusive resources for LGBTQ+ seniors, veterans, tribal members, and rural families.
• “Resources by Region” to find local contacts fast.
• FAQs, a resource list, and a disclaimer at the end.

Reality check: Some benefits take time. Some have waitlists. If one door is closed, try the backup options and call 2‑1‑1 to locate a local nonprofit that can bridge the gap. Keep notes of dates, names of people you spoke with, and confirmation numbers.

---

Emergency Help First: Today and This Week

1) Get urgent food, medicine, and safety

• If you can’t afford food this week, ask for “expedited SNAP” when you apply. Texas can approve SNAP in as little as 7 days for qualifying households with very low income and assets. Apply online or by phone. See: SNAP food benefits (Texas HHS) and YourTexasBenefits application.
• If money for prescriptions is the problem, ask about Medicare Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) and drug company patient assistance. See: Extra Help for Medicare Part D (SSA).
• If you don’t feel safe at home or in a facility, call the Long-Term Care Ombudsman at 1‑800‑252‑2412 or APS at 1‑800‑252‑5400. See: Texas Long-Term Care Ombudsman and Report to APS.

2) Stop a utility shutoff

• Ask your electric or gas company about payment plans and medical “critical care” status if someone in your home uses life-sustaining equipment. The PUC has protections and complaint help at 1‑888‑782‑8477. See: PUC Consumer Help.
• Ask a local Community Action Agency about CEAP (energy bill assistance). See: Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (TDHCA).To prevent shut-offs and lower bills fast, review energy assistance options for seniors and apply now.

3) Prevent eviction or find shelter

• Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) shelter or rapid re-housing” and legal aid. ESG funds go to local agencies that can help with shelter or short-term rent help. See: 2‑1‑1 Texas.
• If you get an eviction notice, talk to legal aid right away; you may have defenses or more time. See: TexasLawHelp – Eviction.

4) Get the right people on your side

• Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) provide benefits counseling, care coordination, nutrition programs, and more for Texans 60+. See: Find your AAA (Texas HHS).
• Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) help adults and caregivers find long-term services and supports and navigate waitlists. See: ADRCs (Texas HHS).

Need a real person to help you apply today? Call your local AAA from our Area Agencies on Aging in Texas directory.

---

Fast-Track Programs for Common Emergencies

All programs have rules. If you’re denied, ask for the reason in writing and how to appeal.

---

Food and Nutrition Help in Texas

1) SNAP (food stamps)

• What it is: Monthly benefits to buy groceries. Texas runs SNAP through HHSC.
• Why it helps: Seniors can qualify even with Social Security income. Medical costs can sometimes be counted to increase benefits.
• Apply: Online, by mail, or at a local office. Ask about expedited processing if your income/assets are very low.
• Learn more and apply: SNAP food benefits (Texas HHS) and YourTexasBenefits.

Official facts: SNAP is a federal program administered by the state. USDA and Texas HHSC set eligibility and benefit rules; expedited service is available for households with very low income and resources. See: USDA SNAP.

2) CSFP “Senior Box” (Commodity Supplemental Food Program)

• What it is: Monthly box of shelf-stable foods for low-income seniors age 60+.
• Who runs it: Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) with local partners.
• Find it: Contact your local food bank or see state contacts.
• Learn more: USDA CSFP State Contacts (Texas) and Feeding Texas – Find Help.

3) Meals at home and at centers

• Home-delivered and congregate meals: Usually through your Area Agency on Aging or Meals on Wheels programs.
• Get connected: Find your Area Agency on Aging (Texas HHS) and Meals on Wheels Texas – Find a provider.

Food Assistance Snapshot

For emergency SNAP timelines and senior-friendly rules, see food programs for seniors.

Tip: If you have high out-of-pocket medical costs, tell SNAP when you apply or renew; allowable medical expenses can sometimes increase your benefit. See: Texas HHS SNAP policy.

---

Housing, Homelessness Prevention, and Property Tax Relief

Eviction, homelessness, and shelter

• Emergency shelter and rapid re-housing: Funded locally through the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG). Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “ESG shelter” or “homeless services.” See: 2‑1‑1 Texas.
• Legal help for tenants: Texas has specific eviction timelines and court rules. Don’t skip your hearing. See: TexasLawHelp – Evictions.

If you’re facing eviction or unsafe housing, start with the programs in Housing assistance for seniors in Texas.

Rent and long-term housing

• Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) and Public Housing: Apply with local housing authorities when waitlists are open. See HUD’s directory: Find your local Public Housing Agency (HUD).For how rental vouchers work, timelines, and tips while you wait, see Housing & rent assistance programs for seniors.
• Subsidized senior apartments (Section 202/Other HUD): Search for affordable senior housing here: HUD Affordable Apartment Search.

Reality check: Many Texas housing programs have waitlists. Put your name on several lists and update your contact info often.

While you wait for a voucher, search income-based senior apartments that you can apply to directly.

Property tax relief for Texans 65+

• Homestead exemption and “over-65” school tax ceiling: Lowers property taxes and freezes school district taxes on your homestead when you turn 65. See: Texas Comptroller – Property Tax Exemptions.
• Property tax deferral (age 65+): You can defer paying property taxes on your homestead until you move or the estate is settled. Interest accrues. Get advice before filing. See: Texas Comptroller – Deferral for 65+.

Housing and Property Help at a Glance

If you need shelter or rehousing right now, use the steps in Emergency Help for Homeless Seniors.

---

Utilities and Energy Bills

CEAP (Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program)

• What it is: Statewide utility bill help funded through TDHCA and local Community Action Agencies. Can assist with crisis bills and weather-related emergencies.
• How to apply: Contact your local provider via CEAP page. See: CEAP (TDHCA).

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

• What it is: Repairs and upgrades that cut your utility bills (insulation, air sealing, HVAC tune-ups) at no cost if eligible.For urgent safety fixes and accessibility upgrades, check home repair grants for seniors.
• Apply via your local weatherization provider. See: WAP (TDHCA).

Protections from shutoffs and medical needs

• The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) has rules for disconnections, payment plans, and protections for “Critical Care” residences where a member relies on life-sustaining equipment. Call your utility and ask to apply; you’ll need a doctor’s certification. For help or complaints, call 1‑888‑782‑8477. See: PUC Consumer Protection.
• Phone and internet discounts: The federal Lifeline program offers a monthly discount on phone or internet for low-income households. Apply through the National Verifier. See: Lifeline Support (USAC). Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped new enrollments in 2024 due to lack of funding; check the FCC ACP page for any updates.

Utility Help Overview

Tip: Ask your city water department or electric co‑op about local assistance and medical necessity protections. Many have their own programs beyond state help.

---

Healthcare, Medicare, Medicaid, and Prescription Help

Medicare cost help

• Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI): Texas HHSC programs that can pay your Medicare Part A/B premiums and sometimes deductibles/coinsurance if your income is limited. Apply through Texas HHS. See: Medicare Savings Programs (Texas HHS).
• Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) for Part D: Helps pay drug plan premiums and copays. Apply through Social Security. See: Extra Help (SSA).

Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities (MEPD)

• What it is: Texas Medicaid programs for older adults and people with disabilities. Includes nursing home coverage and some home- and community-based services.
• STAR+PLUS managed care: For adults who qualify for Medicaid, STAR+PLUS coordinates services. There’s also a STAR+PLUS Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver with an interest list. See: STAR+PLUS (Texas HHS).
• How to get help: Call your AAA or ADRC to discuss eligibility and get on interest lists. See: ADRCs (HHS).

Reality check: Waiver slots are limited. Get your name on the interest list as soon as possible and keep your contact information up to date with HHSC.

Non-emergency medical transportation

• If you have Medicaid, you may get rides to medical appointments, pharmacies, dialysis, and more through the Texas Medicaid Medical Transportation Program. See: Medicaid Transportation Program (HHS).

Behavioral health and crisis lines

• Call 988 for immediate help. For local mobile crisis teams and mental health clinics, find your Local Mental Health or Behavioral Health Authority. See: Texas HHS – Mental Health Crisis Services.

Prescription and disease-specific programs

• Texas Kidney Health Care (KHC): Helps with dialysis services, prescriptions, and travel for eligible Texans with end-stage renal disease. See: Texas Kidney Health Care (HHS).
• Medicare Part D plan counseling: Free help comparing plans through your AAA Benefits Counseling (Texas’ State Health Insurance Assistance Program). See: Benefits Counseling (HHS).

Health Coverage and Cost Help (Summary)

If dental costs are blocking care, explore dental grants in Texas and same-day options.

Tip: Always ask your pharmacist to run your prescription through your plan and through any Extra Help you receive to see the lowest price.

---

Money, Cash Assistance, and Consumer Protection

Social Security and SSI

• Social Security retirement, survivors, and disability (SSDI) are federal benefits. Contact SSA to apply, manage benefits, or replace documents. See: Social Security Administration.
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is a federal program for people with low income who are 65+ or disabled. Texas does not add a state supplement, but SSI eligibility usually qualifies you for Medicaid. See: SSI (SSA).

One-Time TANF for Relatives (if you’re caring for a grandchild/relative child)

• What it is: Texas offers a one-time cash payment for relatives caring for a child in crisis situations. Amounts and rules can change; check the official page.
• Where to learn/apply: Cash help for families (Texas HHS).

Note: TANF is for families with children. If you’re a senior without a child in your care, TANF likely won’t apply.

Unclaimed property

• Texans often have unclaimed money (old bank accounts, refunds). It’s free to search and claim. See: Texas Comptroller – ClaimItTexas.org.

Consumer protection and medical bills

• Surprise billing and insurance issues: Get help from the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) at 1‑800‑252‑3439. See: TDI Consumer Help.
• Medicare fraud and scams: Contact the Texas Senior Medicare Patrol for education and help. See: Senior Medicare Patrol – Find Your SMP.

---

Transportation and Mobility

• Local transit and paratransit: Contact your city/county transit agency or AAA for senior rides and dial-a-ride options. See: Find your AAA (HHS).
• Medicaid rides: If you have Medicaid, use the Medical Transportation Program. See: Medicaid Transportation (HHS).
• VA rides: Contact your local VA facility or Veterans Service Officer for DAV or VA transportation options. See: VA Health Facility Locator.

For walkers, wheelchairs, and bathroom safety gear at low or no cost, start with free medical equipment programs.

Tip: In rural counties, book rides several days ahead. Ask about recurring ride scheduling for dialysis and therapy.

---

Disaster Readiness and Recovery (Texas)

• State emergency info: Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM).
• Federal aid after a declared disaster: FEMA Individual Assistance.
• SBA disaster loans (including for renters): SBA Disaster Assistance.
• Disaster SNAP (D‑SNAP): When activated in Texas after certain disasters, D‑SNAP offers short-term food help. Watch for HHS announcements. See: Texas D‑SNAP.

Important: Photograph damage, keep receipts, and apply as soon as programs open. If you’re denied, you can appeal within FEMA’s deadline. FEMA and SBA staff will not charge fees.

---

Caregiving, Long-Term Care, and Safety

• Caregiver support: AAAs offer respite, support groups, and training. See: Area Agencies on Aging (HHS).
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Solves problems in nursing homes/assisted living. 1‑800‑252‑2412. See: Texas LTC Ombudsman.
• Adult Protective Services: Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation. 1‑800‑252‑5400. See: DFPS – Report Abuse.

Warning: Never ignore threats, financial pressure, or someone asking for your PIN or to “repay” a government grant or prize. Report scams to your AAA benefits counselor or to TDI (insurance scams) or the Texas Attorney General for consumer scams: Texas Attorney General – Consumer Protection.

---

Inclusive Supports

LGBTQ+ seniors

• Montrose Center (Houston) – SPRY (Seniors Preparing for Rainbow Years): Social and support services for LGBTQ+ older adults. See: Montrose Center – Seniors.
• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: 877‑360‑LGBT (5428), 24/7 friendly support. See: SAGE Hotline.
• Local AAAs welcome all seniors and can help with benefits, legal referrals, and housing that respects your identity. See: Find your AAA.

Veteran seniors

• Texas Veterans Commission (TVC): Claims assistance, employment, and the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (grants to local nonprofits). See: Texas Veterans Commission.
• VA Aid & Attendance/Housebound: Extra pension amounts for veterans/spouses who need help with daily activities. See: VA Aid & Attendance.
• Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB): State Veterans Homes for long-term care. See: Texas VLB – State Veterans Homes.
• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1. See: Veterans Crisis Line.

Tribal-specific resources in Texas

Federally recognized tribes in Texas include the Alabama‑Coushatta Tribe of Texas, Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas, and Ysleta del Sur Pueblo. Elders can contact tribal governments for benefits and health services, and use IHS resources.

• Alabama‑Coushatta Tribe of Texas: Official site
• Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas: Official site
• Ysleta del Sur Pueblo: Official site
• Indian Health Service – Find Health Care: IHS facility locator

Tribal members also qualify for statewide Texas programs listed in this guide.

Rural seniors and families

• ADRCs and AAAs serve rural counties and can coordinate meal delivery, home care, and transportation where options are limited. See: ADRCs (HHS).
• Call your county’s rural transit provider through your AAA. Book rides early.
• Phone/internet: Check Lifeline discounts and ask your library about telehealth rooms and free Wi‑Fi. See: Lifeline Support.

Tip: Keep a “go folder” with IDs, insurance cards, medication list, and doctor contacts. In a rural emergency, time matters.

Some nonprofits offer one-time help with rent, utilities, or essentials—see charities that help seniors.

---

Resources by Region (Selected Area Agencies on Aging)

Texas has multiple AAAs covering all counties. If you don’t see your county below, use the statewide directory: Find your AAA (Texas HHS).

In the Houston area, start with our Houston seniors assistance guide for local rent, utilities, food, and medical help.

In San Antonio/Bexar County, use our San Antonio seniors assistance guide to find urgent help and where to apply.

El Paso residents can check local programs in our El Paso seniors assistance guide.

Note: Phone numbers and links are subject to change. If a number doesn’t work, call 2‑1‑1.

---

Handy Tables for Fast Comparison

Table: What to apply for when money is tight

Table: Key hotlines

After urgent needs are covered, follow our Senior Benefits in 2026 guide to stack programs and lower monthly costs.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (Texas Seniors)

1. How fast can I get SNAP in Texas if I have no food?

• Texas can approve SNAP within 7 days for households that meet “expedited” criteria (very low income and resources). Apply and ask about expedited service. Source: Texas HHS – SNAP.

2. I live on Social Security. Can I still get SNAP?

• Possibly. Many seniors on fixed incomes qualify. Medical expenses may help your case. Apply to find out. Source: Texas HHS – SNAP.

3. My electricity is about to be shut off. What should I do?

• Call your utility to request a payment plan and ask about medical “critical care” if you use life-sustaining equipment. Then call your local CEAP provider for help. If needed, contact the PUC at 1‑888‑782‑8477. Sources: PUC Consumer Help, TDHCA – CEAP.

4. I’m being evicted. Where do I get help in Texas?

• Don’t skip court. Call legal aid and 2‑1‑1 right away to ask about shelter and rent help (ESG). Sources: TexasLawHelp – Evictions, 2‑1‑1 Texas.

5. What Medicare help can lower my costs?

• Apply for Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI) with Texas HHS and Extra Help for Part D drugs with SSA. Sources: HHS – MSPs, SSA – Extra Help.

6. How do I get home care through Medicaid in Texas?

• If you qualify for Medicaid, ask about STAR+PLUS and the STAR+PLUS HCBS waiver. Expect an interest list. Contact your AAA/ADRC for help. Source: Texas HHS – STAR+PLUS.

7. Who do I call about problems in my nursing home?

• The Texas Long-Term Care Ombudsman at 1‑800‑252‑2412. Source: HHS – LTC Ombudsman.

8. I’m a veteran in Texas. Is there state help besides the VA?

• Yes. The Texas Veterans Commission helps with claims and connects you to local grants. Texas Veterans Land Board operates State Veterans Homes for long-term care. Sources: TVC, Texas VLB – Veterans Homes.

9. Are there property tax breaks for Texans 65 and older?

• Yes. Over‑65 homestead exemptions and a school tax ceiling apply to your residence homestead; a deferral is also available. Source: Texas Comptroller – Property Tax Exemptions.

10. How do I get mental health help in a crisis?

• Call or text 988. For local mobile crisis teams and clinics, see your Local Mental Health Authority. Source: Texas HHS – Mental Health Crisis Services.

11. Can I get help with phone or internet bills?

• You may qualify for the federal Lifeline discount. The ACP program stopped taking new applications in 2024; check the FCC for updates. Sources: Lifeline Support, FCC – ACP.

12. What should I do after a Texas disaster (flood, hurricane, wildfire)?

• Document damage, apply to FEMA promptly, and check for D‑SNAP announcements. For loans, consider SBA. Sources: FEMA Individual Assistance, Texas D‑SNAP, SBA Disaster Assistance.

13. I’m caring for my grandchild. Is there any one-time cash help?

• Texas may offer a one-time TANF payment for relatives caring for a child in crisis. Check current rules and amounts with HHS. Source: Cash help for families (HHS).

14. Where can I get help comparing Medicare plans?

• Call your Area Agency on Aging for free benefits counseling (Texas’ SHIP). Source: Benefits Counseling (HHS).

15. I’m an LGBTQ+ senior. Are there Texas-specific services?

• Yes. The Montrose Center’s SPRY program in Houston is one example. Your AAA also provides inclusive services. Sources: Montrose Center – Seniors, Find your AAA.

---

Statewide Resource List (Official Links)

• 2‑1‑1 Texas: Search and call center
• Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC): Programs and services
• Apply for benefits: YourTexasBenefits.com
• Adult Protective Services: Report abuse/neglect/exploitation
• Area Agencies on Aging: Directory
• Aging & Disability Resource Centers: Directory
• SNAP: Program info
• CEAP (energy bills): TDHCA CEAP
• Weatherization: TDHCA WAP
• Public Utility Commission of Texas: Consumer Protection
• Medicare Savings Programs: Texas HHS
• Extra Help for Part D: SSA
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman: HHS
• Mental Health crisis/local authorities: HHS
• FEMA Individual Assistance: FEMA
• D‑SNAP: Texas HHS
• Texas Veterans Commission: TVC
• Texas Veterans Land Board: VLB Homes
• Texas Comptroller – Property Tax Exemptions: Exemptions overview
• Legal Aid (statewide portal): TexasLawHelp.org
• Lifeline (phone/internet discount): USAC Lifeline
• Social Security: SSA
• Unclaimed Property: ClaimItTexas.org

---

Reality Checks, Tips, and Warnings

• Documents: Keep a folder with ID, Social Security card, health insurance cards, award letters (SSA/SSI), lease/mortgage, utility bills, and a medication list. Bring copies to appointments.
• Waitlists: Put your name on every list you qualify for (housing, STAR+PLUS HCBS). Update your phone/address if anything changes.
• Appeals: If denied for a benefit, ask for the denial in writing and the appeals process. Many denials are reversed on appeal.
• Scams: No government agency will ask for gift cards or your full banking PIN. Verify offers with your AAA or directly with the agency’s published phone number.

---

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. Use our FPL benefits checklist to see what you likely qualify for and track applications.

• Last Updated: January 2026
• Sources Verified: January 2026
• Next Review: May 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.

---

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information. Program rules, funding, income limits, and phone numbers can change. Always confirm details with the official agency or your local Area Agency on Aging before you apply or make decisions.