Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Maryland (2025 Authority Guide)

Last updated: August 2025

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Quick Help Box (Emergency first)

Keep this section handy for urgent needs.

Note: Links above go to official state or federal pages.

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Who this guide is for and how it helps

This guide focuses on Maryland residents who are age 60+ and have a disability, or who are under 60 with a disability and caring for an older adult. It covers money, food, housing, health care, in-home help, transportation, and legal protections. It points you to official application links and local offices. For context, see key trends in our Senior statistics of Maryland snapshot.

What to expect:

• Clear steps to apply.
• Realistic timelines and tips.
• Maryland-specific programs (names, links, and contacts).
• Extra sections for LGBTQ+ seniors, veterans, Native/tribal community members, and rural families.

Reality check: Many programs have waitlists, paperwork, and income/asset limits. Don’t give up if you hear “no” the first time—ask about appeal rights or related programs. Use your local Maryland Access Point (MAP) office as your on-call guide. For a broader list of statewide programs, see our Grants & Assistance for Seniors in Maryland hub.

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The Maryland “Front Door” for Help

• Maryland Access Point (MAP) is the state’s “No Wrong Door” for aging and disability services. MAP specialists screen you for multiple programs, help you apply, and connect you to your county’s Area Agency on Aging (AAA). Start here: Maryland Access Point (MAP).
• 211 Maryland can help 24/7 with food, housing, utilities, and crisis support. Call 2-1-1 or visit 211 Maryland.
• myMDTHINK is the statewide portal for SNAP (Food Supplement Program), Medicaid, cash assistance, energy help, and more: myMDTHINK.

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Health Care, Medicare, and Long-Term Supports

Key programs at a glance

Official sources:

• Maryland SHIP: Maryland SHIP.
• Medicare Savings Programs: MDH Medicare Savings Programs.
• Extra Help: Social Security Extra Help.
• SPDAP: Maryland SPDAP and Maryland Health Connection SPDAP.
• LTSS overview and programs: MDH Long-Term Services & Supports.
• Community First Choice: MDH Community First Choice.
• Medical Day Care: MDH Medical Day Care Services.
• PACE general: Medicare PACE; local: Johns Hopkins ElderPlus.

Reality checks and tips:

• Medicaid in-home services can have waitlists. Ask about “priority categories,” interim services through Community First Choice, and short-term in-home support through the Senior Care Program (below).
• If you’re denied Medicaid due to income, ask about a “Medical Assistance Spenddown” or Miller Trust (Qualified Income Trust) where applicable; your MAP counselor or legal aid can explain options.
• Bring proof: ID, Social Security number, Medicare card, bank statements, recent medical records showing your functional needs.

For help specifically with dentures, cleanings, and other oral care, see our Maryland dental grants guide.

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Prescription, Durable Medical Equipment, and Assistive Technology

• Maryland Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program (SPDAP): Helps with Medicare Part D costs for eligible Marylanders. Details: Maryland SPDAP and Maryland Health Connection SPDAP.
• Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy): Federal help with Part D premiums and copays. Apply through Social Security Extra Help.
• Maryland Durable Medical Equipment Re-Use: The Maryland Department of Aging collects and refurbishes equipment (wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, and more) and provides it at no cost. Learn more and find a drop-off/pick-up site: Maryland DME Re-Use.  For walkers, wheelchairs, bathroom safety items and more, see free or low-cost medical equipment programs available to seniors.
• Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MDTAP): Device demonstrations, short-term loans to try equipment, assessments, and referrals to funding. See MDTAP (Maryland Department of Disabilities).
• Assistive Technology Loan Program (ATLP): Low-interest loans for assistive technology and home modifications. Details: MDOD Assistive Technology Loan Program.
• Telecommunications Access of Maryland (TAM): Free or reduced-cost assistive phones and relay services for Marylanders with hearing/speech disabilities. Program info: Telecommunications Access Maryland (MDOD).

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Money, Food, and Daily Living

Official sources:

• Social Security: SSA.gov for retirement, SSDI, SSI.
• SNAP: DHS SNAP and myMDTHINK.
• CSFP/SFMNP general: USDA CSFP and USDA SFMNP (ask local AAA for county details).
• Meals: Local AAAs via MAP and Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland.
• PAA: Contact your Local Department of Social Services via DHS local office directory.

Reality checks and tips:

• SNAP is for many older adults on fixed incomes—even if you own a home. Deduct medical expenses to potentially increase your benefit. Ask a MAP counselor or a SHIP counselor to help document allowed expenses.
• If you’re in assisted living with very low income, ask your local Department of Social Services about PAA and Medicaid “Assisted Living” options.

Beyond government programs, some nonprofits can step in—review our list of charities that help disabled retirees.

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Housing, Home Repairs, and Utilities

Official sources:

• SDAT tax credits: Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit, Renters’ Tax Credit, Homestead Credit.
• Energy: DHS Office of Home Energy Programs; DHCD Weatherization and EmPOWER.
• Home modifications: DHCD Accessible Homes for Seniors; DHCD WholeHome.

Reality checks and tips:

• Some DHCD programs use licensed contractors and have waitlists—apply early and answer calls quickly to avoid delays. For funding options to fix hazards or improve accessibility, review home repair grants for seniors. We answer the most common questions in our 50 Questions & 50 Answers on home repair grants.
• For renters, get written permission from your landlord for modifications; ask about funding that pays for removable or transferable equipment. For a fuller look at rental help and how waitlists work, see housing & rent assistance programs for seniors.

For state-specific rent relief, property tax credits, and repair options, visit Housing assistance for seniors in Maryland.

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Transportation and Mobility

Tips:

• Always ask about same-day vs. advance reservations, ride windows, and no-show policies to avoid penalties.
• If paratransit is full, ask about travel training for fixed-route and whether a companion can ride free.

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In-Home Help, Caregiving, and Community Supports

• Senior Care Program (Maryland Department of Aging): State-funded help to keep you at home—case management, in-home personal care, homemaking, medications management, personal emergency response systems, and more. Priority for older adults at risk of nursing home placement. Ask your local MAP/AAA: Senior Care Program (MDoA).  You can get free application help from your local AAA—find yours in our Area Agencies on Aging in Maryland directory.
• National Family Caregiver Support Program (Maryland): Respite care, training, and small grants for caregiving expenses for those caring for older adults or grandparents raising grandchildren. Contact your county AAA via MAP; overview: Family Caregiver Support (MDoA).
• Maryland Respite Care Program (Lifespan Respite): Short-term breaks for unpaid caregivers (all ages/disabilities). See Maryland Respite Care (MDoA).
• Adult Medical Day Care (Medicaid): Nursing supervision, therapies, meals, activities, and often transportation—lets caregivers keep working. See MDH Medical Day Care Services.
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman (MDoA): Independent advocates for residents of nursing homes and assisted living—help with complaints, rights, and transfers. Contact the Ombudsman Office (MDoA).
• Maryland Senior Call Check: Free daily phone check-ins for residents 65+, with follow-up if you miss a call. Enroll and learn more: Senior Call Check (MDoA).

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Legal, Consumer, and Safety Protections

• Adult Protective Services (APS): Investigates abuse, neglect, self-neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable adults. Report through your Local Department of Social Services: DHS Local Offices.
• Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): Educates and helps resolve Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse. Report or get help: Maryland SMP (MDoA).
• Maryland Attorney General – Health Education and Advocacy Unit (HEAU): Help with medical billing disputes, surprise bills, and insurance issues. See HEAU (Maryland OAG).
• Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (OAG): Report suspected provider fraud or patient abuse in facilities. See OAG Medicaid Fraud.
• Maryland Legal Aid and local legal services: Free civil legal help on housing, benefits, consumer issues, and more. Learn more: Maryland Legal Aid and Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland. Also ask your local AAA about Older Americans Act-funded legal services in your county.

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How to Apply: Step-by-Step for Common Benefits

1. Start with Maryland Access Point (MAP)

• Call or visit your local MAP office (find yours via Maryland Access Point).
• Ask for an intake screening for SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, in-home help, transportation, and tax credits. If you may be eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, read the Dual Eligible Guide before you apply—this can unlock extra help.
• Request help pulling documents: ID, Social Security card, Medicare card, proof of address, bank statements, lease/mortgage, utility bills, and medical expense receipts.

2. Create a myMDTHINK account

• Go to myMDTHINK.
• You can apply for SNAP (Food Supplement Program), Medicaid, cash assistance, and energy aid in one place.
• If you don’t use computers, ask a MAP counselor or your library for help.

3. Medicare help

• Contact Maryland SHIP for plan comparisons, checking drug formularies, and verifying provider networks.
• Ask about Extra Help (LIS) and Medicare Savings Programs before open enrollment to avoid gaps.

4. Housing and energy

• For property and renters’ tax credits, apply through SDAT: Homeowners’ Tax Credit and Renters’ Tax Credit.
• For energy help, apply to DHS OHEP (MEAP/EUSP/USPP). Late fees and shutoff notices often unlock extra assistance—upload copies.

5. Home modifications and equipment

• If you need ramps or bathroom changes, explore DHCD Accessible Homes for Seniors and EmPOWER/WAP.
• For equipment at no cost, check Maryland DME Re-Use and MDTAP device loans.

6. Keep copies and track deadlines

• Save a folder with your application confirmations and notices.
• If denied, look for appeal rights and deadlines. Call SHIP or legal aid for help.

For additional money-saving programs, check the Financial Assistance category.

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Special Focus: Veterans, LGBTQ+ Seniors, Tribal/Native Community Members, and Rural Families

Veteran Seniors

• Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) can help you file for VA disability compensation, pensions (including Aid & Attendance), health care, and burial benefits. Contact the MDVA Service & Benefits Program.
• Long-term care: Charlotte Hall Veterans Home offers comprehensive care for eligible veterans and spouses. Learn more: Charlotte Hall Veterans Home.
• Property tax relief: Some Maryland counties offer additional credits for disabled veterans. Check with your county finance office and MDVA resources.
• Transportation: Ask your local transit provider about veteran ride programs; VA medical centers may have shuttle options.

Sources: MDVA; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (va.gov).

LGBTQ+ Older Adults

• Health care with affirming services: Chase Brexton Health Care’s LGBT Health Resource Center provides care navigation and support groups. See the LGBT Health Resource Center.
• Legal and advocacy help: FreeState Justice offers legal services and advocacy for LGBTQ+ Marylanders. See FreeState Justice.
• Safety and housing: Discuss chosen-family contacts with your MAP counselor and list them on emergency forms and facility records. Ask your Ombudsman about residents’ rights if you face discrimination.

Tribal/Native Community Members

• Maryland recognizes several tribes through the Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs (MCIA). Contact MCIA for cultural liaison and referral help: Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs.
• Health services: Native American Lifelines (Baltimore) is an Urban Indian Health Program offering case management, behavioral health, and limited patient support services. Learn more: Native American Lifelines.
• Note: There are no federally recognized tribes located in Maryland; eligibility for Indian Health Service benefits depends on your tribal status and IHS rules. See Indian Health Service eligibility guidance (ihs.gov).

Rural Seniors and Families (Western MD & Eastern Shore)

• Transportation is a common barrier. Check your county’s Locally Operated Transit System (LOTS) for dial-a-ride or demand-response services: MDOT/MTA LOTS directory.
• Health care access: Ask your clinic about telehealth options and technical help. The Maryland Health Care Commission tracks telehealth resources: MHCC Telehealth.
• Broadband: The Office of Statewide Broadband funds home internet expansion and devices for low-income households. See DHCD Office of Statewide Broadband.
• Food and utilities: Rural counties often have mobile food pantries and heating assistance satellites. Call 2-1-1 Maryland or your local MAP to find schedules near you.

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Reality Checks, Warnings, and Practical Tips

• Watch for scams: No government agency will demand gift cards or threaten arrest for unpaid bills. Verify callers by hanging up and calling the number on the official website. Report Medicare scams to Maryland SMP.
• Keep a benefits calendar: Renewal deadlines sneak up. Mark when to renew SNAP, Medicaid, tax credits, and energy assistance.
• Hospital and rehab discharges: Before you go home, ask for a case manager meeting to set up home health, equipment, and follow-up appointments. If problems arise, contact the hospital’s patient advocate and your MAP counselor.
• Overpayments and denials: If SNAP or Medicaid says you were overpaid or you’re denied, you have the right to appeal. Read the notice, note the deadline, and contact legal aid or your local AAA for help.
• Caregiver burnout: Respite is not a luxury. Ask about the Family Caregiver Support Program and Maryland Respite Care Program for short breaks.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is there a single place to apply for most benefits in Maryland?

• Yes. Use myMDTHINK to apply for SNAP, Medicaid, cash assistance, and energy help. For Medicare issues, contact Maryland SHIP. For aging/disability services referrals, start with Maryland Access Point (MAP).

2. I’m on Medicare and my drug costs are too high. What can I do?

• Ask Maryland SHIP to check if you qualify for Extra Help (LIS) and the Medicare Savings Programs, and whether Maryland SPDAP can reduce your Part D premium and certain out-of-pocket costs. See Maryland SPDAP and Social Security Extra Help.

3. What if I need help with bathing and dressing but want to stay at home?

• Ask MAP about Medicaid Community First Choice and the Community Options Waiver. If you don’t qualify for Medicaid, ask about the Senior Care Program, which can fund in-home help for those at risk of nursing home placement.

4. Does Maryland offer daily safety check calls for seniors?

• Yes. Maryland Senior Call Check provides free daily calls for residents 65+. Learn more and enroll via the Senior Call Check page (MDoA).

5. How can I get a wheelchair or hospital bed if I can’t afford one?

• Check the Maryland Durable Medical Equipment Re-Use program for no-cost refurbished equipment. You can also try equipment through MDTAP before you buy.

6. I live on the Eastern Shore. Is there transportation to medical appointments?

• Yes. Each county has a Locally Operated Transit System (LOTS). Medicaid NEMT is available for Medicaid-covered trips. Start with MDOT/MTA LOTS directory and MDH Transportation.

7. My landlord won’t allow bathroom modifications I need for safety. What are my options?

• Ask your MAP counselor about funding through Accessible Homes for Seniors or Medicaid (if eligible). Landlords must make reasonable accommodations under fair housing laws; legal aid can advise on your situation. See Maryland Legal Aid.

8. Can I get help with property taxes or rent if I’m on a fixed income?

• Homeowners can apply for the Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit; renters may qualify for the Renters’ Tax Credit. Both are administered by SDAT.

9. Where do I report poor care in an assisted living or nursing home?

• Contact the Maryland Long-Term Care Ombudsman for advocacy and complaint resolution. For abuse or neglect, also contact Adult Protective Services.

10. I’m a veteran—who can help me file for VA benefits or Aid & Attendance?

• Contact the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) Service & Benefits Program. They help file claims, appeals, and connect you to state veteran services.

11. Are there programs for caregivers who need a break?

• Yes. The Family Caregiver Support Program and the Maryland Respite Care Program provide respite and other support. Contact your county AAA via MAP.

12. I applied for benefits but haven’t heard back. What should I do?

• Log into myMDTHINK to check status, or call your local office. Keep your confirmation number and proof of documents submitted. If delays are severe, ask your MAP counselor or legal aid for help.

13. Are there special resources for LGBTQ+ seniors in Maryland?

• Yes. The LGBT Health Resource Center at Chase Brexton provides navigation and support. FreeState Justice provides legal help and advocacy.

14. I’m Native American and live in Maryland. Are there services specific to me?

• Contact the Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs and Native American Lifelines (Baltimore) for culturally responsive services and referrals. Eligibility for IHS benefits depends on your tribal status.

15. Can I get meals delivered at home?

• Yes. Ask your county AAA about Home-Delivered Meals (OAA Nutrition). Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland serves many counties.

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Resources by Region (selected links)

Use the Maryland Access Point directory to click directly to your county’s office: Maryland Access Point (MAP). For transit, see MDOT/MTA’s Locally Operated Transit Systems directory and MTA Mobility for the Baltimore region. Baltimore residents can also review local programs in our Baltimore seniors assistance guide.

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Source Links (official and well-established)

Health and insurance

• Maryland SHIP (Medicare counseling): Maryland SHIP
• Medicare Savings Programs (MDH): MDH Medicare Savings Programs
• Extra Help (LIS): Social Security Extra Help
• SPDAP: Maryland SPDAP and Maryland Health Connection SPDAP
• LTSS overview and programs: MDH Long-Term Services & Supports
• Community First Choice: MDH Community First Choice
• Medical Day Care: MDH Medical Day Care Services
• PACE (general): Medicare PACE; Local: Johns Hopkins ElderPlus

Food and income

• SNAP (Food Supplement Program): DHS SNAP; Apply at myMDTHINK
• SSI/SSDI/SSA: Social Security
• CSFP: USDA CSFP; SFMNP: USDA SFMNP
• Meals on Wheels: Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland

Housing, utilities, and home modifications

• SDAT Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit: SDAT Homeowners’ Tax Credit
• SDAT Renters’ Tax Credit: SDAT Renters’ Tax Credit
• SDAT Homestead: SDAT Homestead Credit
• Energy assistance (MEAP/EUSP/USPP): DHS OHEP
• Weatherization: DHCD Weatherization
• EmPOWER Maryland LIEEP: DHCD EmPOWER
• Accessible Homes for Seniors: DHCD Accessible Homes for Seniors
• WholeHome programs: DHCD WholeHome Programs

Assistive technology and equipment

• Maryland DME Re-Use: MDoA DME Re-Use
• MDTAP: MDOD MDTAP
• Assistive Technology Loan Program: MDOD AT Loan Program
• Telecommunications Access Maryland: MDOD Telecommunications Access

Transportation and mobility

• MTA Mobility (paratransit): MTA Mobility
• Reduced fares: MTA Reduced Fares
• County/Regional transit (LOTS): MDOT/MTA LOTS directory
• Medicaid Transportation: MDH Transportation
• Disabled parking placards: MDOT MVA Disabled Parking

Legal and protections

• Adult Protective Services: DHS Local Offices
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman: MDoA Ombudsman
• SMP: MDoA SMP
• OAG Health Education & Advocacy Unit: MD OAG HEAU
• Medicaid Fraud Control Unit: MD OAG Medicaid Fraud
• Maryland Legal Aid: Maryland Legal Aid
• Pro Bono Resource Center: Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland

Navigation and general help

• Maryland Access Point (MAP): Maryland Access Point
• myMDTHINK: myMDTHINK
• 211 Maryland: 211 Maryland
• 988 Lifeline: 988 Lifeline

Veterans, LGBTQ+, Native/Tribal

• MDVA services: MDVA Service & Benefits Program
• Charlotte Hall Veterans Home: Charlotte Hall Veterans Home
• LGBT Health Resource Center (Chase Brexton): LGBT Health Resource Center
• FreeState Justice: FreeState Justice
• Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs: MCIA
• Native American Lifelines (Baltimore): Native American Lifelines

Telehealth and broadband

• Maryland Health Care Commission telehealth: MHCC Telehealth
• Office of Statewide Broadband: DHCD Office of Statewide Broadband

Note: If any county link changes, use Maryland Access Point to find your local office.

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Three More Handy Tables

A) Which office for which need?

B) Documents to gather

C) Common timelines (typical, not guaranteed)

Timelines vary by county and season; always check your application status in myMDTHINK or with your caseworker. Browse more guides in our Disabled Assistance category.

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What these programs do (in plain terms)

• Maryland SHIP: Real, human counselors who help you pick and use Medicare coverage. They don’t sell insurance.
• Medicare Savings Programs: If you’re on Medicare and your income is limited, the state may pay your Part B premium and sometimes other costs.
• SPDAP and Extra Help: These reduce what you pay for your drug plan and your prescriptions if you qualify.
• Medicaid LTSS and CFC: If you need help with bathing, dressing, meals, or getting around at home, these programs can bring helpers to you or cover a facility if needed.
• Senior Care Program: State-funded in-home help for those just above Medicaid or waiting for a waiver.
• OHEP/MEAP/EUSP: If your utility bills are burying you, these programs can lower bills and sometimes clear part of a past-due balance.
• SDAT Tax Credits: Yearly relief for homeowners and renters with limited income.
• DHCD Accessible Homes for Seniors: Helps pay for safety upgrades like ramps and walk-in showers.
• MDTAP and DME Re-Use: Try devices before you buy, or get refurbished equipment for free.

To make sure you’re not leaving money on the table, check our roundup of Senior Benefits in 2025.

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Practical examples

• You have Medicare, limited income, and a $175 monthly drug plan premium you can’t afford. Action: Call SHIP to check Extra Help and SPDAP. If eligible, these can cut your premium and reduce copays. See Maryland SPDAP and SSA Extra Help.
• You live alone and fell in the shower. Action: Ask MAP about Community First Choice for in-home help and a personal emergency response button; check DHCD Accessible Homes for Seniors for grab bars and a shower chair.
• Your power bill doubled and you have a shutoff notice. Action: Apply to OHEP (MEAP/EUSP) via myMDTHINK today and upload the notice. Ask your utility about a medical certification from your doctor and the Utility Service Protection Program.
• Your mom is in a nursing facility but wants to come home. Action: Talk to the facility social worker and your county MAP about Increased Community Services or the Community Options Waiver to set up home supports.

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Disclaimer

Programs, eligibility, amounts, and application processes can change. Always verify details with the official agency or program website linked in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, or medical advice.

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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.