Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Kansas

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated: August 2025

This guide is written for Kansas residents who are age 60+ and living with a disability (or caregivers helping them). It covers emergency help, health coverage, long-term care, food, housing, utilities, transportation, tax relief, legal/consumer protections, and specialized resources for veterans, LGBTQ+ seniors, tribal elders, and rural residents. All key claims link to official or well‑established sources. —

Quick Help Box (print or save this)

Use these numbers and links if you need help right now.

Need What to do Phone Official info
Life‑threatening emergency Call 911 911
Mental health crisis Call/text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) 988 About 988 (SAMHSA.gov)
Adult abuse/neglect/exploitation Kansas Adult Protective Services (DCF) 1-800-922-5330 Report Adult Abuse or Neglect (DCF)
Find urgent local help (shelter, food, bills) Call 211 211 Find help on 211Kansas.org
Medicaid (KanCare) enrollment help Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) 1-855-200-2372 ADRC (KDADS)
Medicare counseling (free, unbiased) SHICK (Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas) 1-800-860-5260 SHICK (KDADS)
Legal help (civil) Kansas Legal Services 1-800-723-6953 Kansas Legal Services
Veterans benefits help Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office 1-800-513-7731 KCVAO
Apply for KanCare (Medicaid) Online application portal Apply for KanCare (kancare.ks.gov)
SNAP (food assistance) & LIEAP (energy help) DCF Self‑Service Portal DCF Self‑Service Portal (KEES)

Reality check: In Kansas, some benefits have deadlines (for example, LIEAP usually runs in late winter) and some services can have waitlists (especially certain home care waivers). Apply early, keep paperwork, and ask for help from ADRC or your Area Agency on Aging if you get stuck.

How to use this guide

  • If you’re in crisis, use the Quick Help Box first.
  • If you need health coverage or home care, start with Medicare/Medicaid (KanCare) below.
  • For food, housing, and utility help, go to those sections and apply online or by phone.
  • If a program sounds right for you, click the official link, review eligibility, apply, and save confirmation numbers.
  • If you prefer personal help, call ADRC (1‑855‑200‑2372) for benefits counseling and options planning.

Who this guide is for

  • Kansans age 60+ with a disability or significant health condition.
  • Adults under 65 on SSDI who will transition to Medicare, and their caregivers.
  • Care partners and family members helping an older adult with activities of daily living.

Definitions you may hear:

  • Disability (Social Security): a medical condition that prevents substantial work and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. See Disability Benefits (SSA.gov).
  • Long‑Term Services and Supports (LTSS): help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, meals, and mobility, delivered at home, in the community, or in a facility. In Kansas, LTSS is largely coordinated through KDADS and KanCare.

Emergency and short‑term help (first 30–60 days)

Tip: When money is tight, apply to more than one program at the same time (for example, KanCare, SNAP, and LIEAP). Many programs require similar documents.

One‑on‑one help to navigate benefits

  • Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC): Statewide “no wrong door” for older adults and people with disabilities. Call 1‑855‑200‑2372. Info and referrals, home‑care options counseling, HCBS screening, and caregiver support. ADRC (KDADS)
  • SHICK: Free, unbiased Medicare counseling, plan comparisons, and appeals help. 1‑800‑860‑5260. SHICK (KDADS)
  • Kansas Legal Services: Civil legal help for low‑income seniors (benefits denials, housing, debt, advanced directives). 1‑800‑723‑6953. KLS website
  • KCVAO: Claims assistance and long‑term care homes for veterans. 1‑800‑513‑7731. Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office

Health coverage and care in Kansas

Medicare and Extra Help

  • Medicare is federal health insurance for ages 65+ and some people under 65 with disability. Enrollment and plan details: Medicare.gov.
  • Prescription help: Extra Help (Low‑Income Subsidy) can reduce Part D premiums and copays if you have limited income and resources.
  • Premium and cost help: Medicare Savings Programs may pay Part B premiums and more if eligible. In Kansas, these are administered through KanCare/KDHE.

Get counseling: Call SHICK at 1‑800‑860‑5260 for free, local help with comparing plans and applying for savings programs.

Medicaid (KanCare) for seniors and people with disabilities

KanCare is Kansas Medicaid. It can cover doctor visits, hospital care, nursing facilities, and home and community‑based services (HCBS).

KanCare uses three Managed Care Organizations (MCOs). You choose one:

KanCare health plan Member services Transportation Website
Aetna Better Health of Kansas 1-855-221-5656 Ask your plan for Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Aetna Better Health of Kansas
Sunflower Health Plan 1-877-644-4623 NEMT available through plan vendor Sunflower Health Plan
UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Kansas 1-877-542-9238 NEMT available through plan vendor UnitedHealthcare Community Plan

Find plan details and current contacts on the official page: KanCare Health Plans

Home and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) waivers

If you have a disability that makes it hard to live independently, HCBS waivers can bring services to your home instead of a nursing facility. Kansas waivers most relevant to older adults and adults with physical disabilities include:

Waiver Who it serves What it can cover (examples) Where to start
Frail Elderly (FE) Seniors who meet nursing facility level of care Personal care, homemaker, adult day, chore, home modifications, case management Call ADRC for screening: 1‑855‑200‑2372; learn via KDADS
Physical Disability (PD) Adults 16–65 with physical disability; can help some older adults under 65 awaiting Medicare Personal attendant care, assistive services, independent living supports Start with ADRC and KanCare application
Brain Injury (BI) Adults with acquired brain injury Rehab and support to live in community ADRC screening
Program of All‑Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) Seniors 55+ who need nursing home level of care and live in a PACE service area Medical care, day health, therapies, transportation, and long‑term care via one provider See PACE in Kansas (KDADS) and ask ADRC about availability

Important realities:

  • Waitlists: Some waivers (notably the I/DD waiver) can have waitlists. FE and PD may be faster, but availability changes. Ask ADRC about current wait times.
  • Level of care: You must meet medical and functional criteria, not just income rules.
  • Financial eligibility: Medicaid rules apply; the state looks at income and assets with special rules for spouses. Consider speaking with SHICK or an elder law attorney about spousal impoverishment protections.

Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

If you’re on KanCare, your MCO can arrange rides to covered medical appointments. Call the number on your plan card or member services above. See general info on the KanCare site: KanCare for consumers.

Assistive technology and durable medical equipment (DME)

  • Assistive Technology for Kansans (ATK): Device demonstrations, short‑term loans, reuse, and financing. ATK (University of Kansas)
  • Kansas Equipment Exchange (KEE): Helps get or give used durable medical equipment. KEE program
  • K-Loan: Low‑interest loans for assistive technology and home modifications. K-Loan

Mental health and counseling

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 (call/text). About 988
  • Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs): Kansas funds a network of CMHCs for outpatient care; ask ADRC or see KDADS for your local CMHC. KDADS

Money, taxes, and basic expenses

Social Security, SSI, and SSDI

Tip: If you’re on SSI or SSDI, tell your KanCare worker; it can simplify Medicaid eligibility.

Property tax relief for seniors and disabled veterans

Kansas offers refunds and relief programs. Income and home value limits change, so always check current rules:

Program Who may qualify Benefit type Where to learn/apply
Homestead Refund Low‑income homeowners (includes seniors and some disabled individuals) Refund of a portion of property tax Homestead Refund (Kansas Dept. of Revenue)
SAFESR (Safe Senior) Variant of Homestead for seniors with specific income limits Increased refund amount; specific criteria apply See the Homestead page above for Safe Senior details
Property Tax Relief Claim for Seniors and Disabled Veterans (SVR) Seniors and certain disabled veterans; criteria set by statute Property tax relief subject to annual limits Check KDOR forms and instructions; look for “K‑40SVR” on KDOR Forms

Reality check: These programs have strict income and home value caps, and you must reapply each year. Keep your tax bill, proof of income, and SSA forms handy. When in doubt, call the Kansas Department of Revenue or ask your county appraiser.

Utilities and home energy

  • LIEAP (Low Income Energy Assistance Program): Helps with winter heating bills. It typically accepts applications during winter months. Apply and check dates on the official page: LIEAP (DCF)
  • Cold Weather Rule: Protects residential customers from electric or gas disconnections in winter if they contact the utility and make payment arrangements. Details: Kansas Cold Weather Rule (KCC)
  • Weatherization Assistance Program: Free energy‑saving repairs for eligible households (insulation, sealing, sometimes appliance repair/replacement). Run by the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation through local agencies. Learn and apply: Weatherization Assistance (KHRC)

Phone and internet:

  • Lifeline: Monthly discount on phone or internet for low‑income households. Apply via the National Verifier. Lifeline Support (USAC)
  • ACP note: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program stopped providing benefits after funding lapsed in 2024. For updates, check the FCC ACP page. Consider Lifeline or low‑income plans from providers.

Banking, debt, and scams

Food and nutrition programs

  • SNAP (Food Assistance): Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries. Apply online: Food Assistance (DCF)
  • Meals at home or in the community (Older Americans Act Nutrition): Home‑delivered meals (“Meals on Wheels”) and senior center meals. Contact ADRC or your Area Agency on Aging; program overview: Nutrition Services (KDADS)
  • Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP — “Senior Food Box”): USDA food package for low‑income seniors 60+. National info: CSFP (USDA). For local enrollment, contact your regional food bank (e.g., Kansas Food Bank CSFP) or your AAA.
  • Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal vouchers to buy produce from authorized farmers. National program overview: SFMNP (USDA). Ask your Area Agency on Aging about availability in your county.

Reality check: SNAP, CSFP, and SFMNP have income limits and limited slots. Apply early each season, and ask your AAA for help if applications fill fast.

Housing, home care, and long‑term supports

Affordable housing and rent help

Tip: If you’re applying for a voucher, be ready for a waitlist. Keep your contact info updated with the PHA so you don’t lose your spot.

Choosing between in‑home care and facility care

  • Options counseling: ADRC can help you compare costs and services between HCBS waivers, PACE, and nursing facilities. ADRC (KDADS)
  • Nursing facility search and complaints: Use KDADS facility resources and the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman for help and advocacy. Kansas Long‑Term Care Ombudsman

Caregiver support

  • Family caregiver support programs are offered via the Area Agencies on Aging (respite, training, counseling). Contact ADRC to reach your local AAA.
  • Veteran caregivers: See VA Caregiver Support and ask KCVAO for help with applications.

Transportation

Getting to the doctor, grocery store, or pharmacy is a common barrier. Here are the main options:

Transportation resource Who it helps What it offers Where to learn/apply
KanCare NEMT (for Medicaid members) KanCare enrollees Free rides to covered medical appointments Call your MCO (see table above)
ADA paratransit (local transit) Riders with disabilities who can’t use fixed routes Door‑to‑door or curb‑to‑curb rides within service area Find local transit via KDOT Public Transit and your city/county transit site
KDOT public transit providers General public with priority for seniors/people with disabilities Rural and small‑city transit; call ahead services common See the KDOT transit/provider directory
Volunteer driver programs Seniors in many communities Rides to appointments and shopping; limited schedules Ask your AAA via ADRC for programs near you

Reality check: In rural counties, trips often must be scheduled 24–48 hours in advance, and service may be only on certain days. Ask about subscription rides for dialysis and therapy.

Communication, hearing, and vision supports

Benefits application checklist

Having documents ready speeds things up.

Program Common documents to gather
KanCare (Medicaid) Photo ID; Social Security number; proof of Kansas residence; recent bank statements; income proof (SSA, pensions, work); Medicare card; insurance info; disability/medical documentation if applying for HCBS
SNAP ID; proof of address; income proof; medical expense receipts (to increase allotment); bank statements
LIEAP Utility account numbers; recent bills; income proof for the last 30 days
Property tax relief Property tax statement; proof of income (SSA‑1099, 1099‑R, W‑2); proof of disability or veteran status if required
Medicare Savings Programs/Extra Help Medicare card; income and resource information; SSA letters

Tip: Make copies and keep a benefits folder. If you mail anything, use certified mail or ask for a receipt in person.

Inclusive resources

LGBTQ+ seniors

  • Medicare and Medicaid are required to serve you without discrimination. If you experience discrimination, you can file a complaint with the HHS Office for Civil Rights.
  • Friendly navigation: SAGE provides national support to LGBTQ+ older adults, including a hotline. SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline (877‑360‑LGBT)

Tip: If you prefer, ask SHICK to help you choose providers with experience serving LGBTQ+ seniors.

Veteran seniors

Reality check: VA and Medicaid can work together, but coordination takes time. Bring VA award letters when applying for KanCare or property tax relief.

Tribal elders

Kansas is home to several federally recognized tribes. Eligible members can access Indian Health Service (IHS) and tribal programs:

  • IHS Oklahoma City Area (serves Kansas tribes): IHS Oklahoma City Area
  • For tribal elder and social services, contact your tribal government office. If you are unsure where to start, ADRC can help coordinate with tribal programs.

Tip: Tribal health benefits can work alongside Medicare and Medicaid; let your providers know all your coverage.

Rural seniors and families

  • Transportation: Use the KDOT provider directory and ask about subscription rides for recurring medical trips.
  • Broadband: If your internet is limited or unaffordable, check Lifeline and ask your local library or senior center about hotspot loans or computer access.
  • Home‑delivered meals and wellness checks: Ask your AAA via ADRC. In many rural counties, these programs also provide a regular safety check.

Resources by region (find local contacts fast)

If you’re not sure which office serves your county, call ADRC at 1‑855‑200‑2372 and ask for a warm hand‑off.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q1: I’m on Medicare. Can I still get Medicaid (KanCare) to help with home care?

  • Yes. Many Kansans have both Medicare and Medicaid. Medicaid can help with long-term services and supports (e.g., home care through HCBS waivers) and may pay Medicare premiums through Medicare Savings Programs if you qualify. Start here: Apply for KanCare, and ask SHICK for help with MSPs.

Q2: How do I get help at home so I don’t have to move to a nursing facility?

  • Ask ADRC for an HCBS screening for the Frail Elderly (FE) or Physical Disability (PD) waiver. If approved medically and financially through KanCare, services can include personal care, homemaker, and more. Call ADRC at 1-855-200-2372.

Q3: Is there a waitlist for services?

  • depends on the waiver and your county. Some waivers have waitlists at times. ADRC can tell you what is available now in your area and help you consider PACE if you live in a service area.

Q4: I can’t afford my medications. What’s my first step?

  • Apply for Extra Help (Social Security). If approved, your Part D premiums and copays can drop significantly. Also ask SHICK about drug plan options and pharmaceutical patient assistance programs.

Q5: Does Kansas help with winter heating bills?

  • Yes. Apply for LIEAP (Kansas DCF) during the winter application window. If you need emergency utility help outside of LIEAP season, call 211 for local resources.

Q6: Where do I report problems in a nursing home or assisted living?

Q7: Can I get help with property taxes as a senior?

  • Possibly. Review the Homestead/Safe Senior Refund and the property tax relief claim for seniors and disabled veterans (see KDOR form K-40SVR on Kansas Department of Revenue Forms). Income and home value limits apply.

Q8: How do I get to medical appointments if I can’t drive?

  • If you’re on KanCare, call your MCO to arrange Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). Otherwise, check ADA paratransit or county transit via KDOT Public Transit, and ask your AAA about volunteer ride programs.

Q9: Is there help paying my Medicare Part B premium?

  • Yes—if you qualify for a Medicare Savings Program (QMB, SLMB, QI). Apply through KanCare and ask SHICK to help you apply and verify eligibility.

Q10: I think someone is taking my money. What should I do?

  • If it’s urgent or you feel unsafe, call 911. Report financial exploitation to Adult Protective Services at 1-800-922-5330 (or online via the DCF Protection Report Center). Kansas Legal Services can advise you on protections and next steps.

Warnings, tips, and reality checks

  • Keep records: Save every letter, keep a notebook of calls (date, person, what was said), and ask for confirmation numbers.
  • Re‑determine on time: Many programs require yearly renewals. Mark your calendar 30 days before your renewal month.
  • Beware of scams: No one from Medicare or Social Security will call to demand payment or your full SSN. Report scams to the Kansas Attorney General.
  • Estate recovery: If you receive certain KanCare benefits after 55, read the Estate Recovery page so your family knows what to expect.
  • ACP ended: The Affordable Connectivity Program ran out of funding in 2024; check the FCC ACP page for updates and use Lifeline where eligible.

Resource index (official links)

Health and LTSS:

Income, taxes, utilities:

Food:

Housing:

Transportation:

Safety/legal:

Veterans:

Assistive tech:

Communication:

Application routes and timing (at a glance)

Benefit How to apply Typical timing Notes
KanCare (Medicaid) Online, by mail, or with help via ADRC Weeks to a few months HCBS adds functional assessment; respond quickly to mail
Medicare Savings Programs Through KanCare application Weeks Can be retroactive 3 months in some cases
SNAP Online via DCF portal Days to a few weeks Phone interview often required
LIEAP DCF portal during open season Weeks Winter only; check dates
Homestead/Safe Senior File during tax season Refund after filing Reapply annually
Weatherization Through local agency via KHRC Varies May involve a waiting list

Real‑world examples (illustrative)

  • Example: A 72‑year‑old in Garden City with heart failure uses Medicare for doctors, Extra Help for medications, KanCare FE waiver for 10 hours/week of personal care, and LIEAP during winter to keep bills manageable. ADRC coordinated the HCBS screening and helped choose a provider agency.
  • Example: A 66‑year‑old veteran in Topeka receives VA health care, gets Aid & Attendance because daily help is needed, and claims the Homestead refund. KCVAO assisted with the VA claim; the county appraiser helped with tax paperwork.

These are examples, not guarantees. Your exact benefits will depend on eligibility and availability.

What to do if you’re denied

  • Read the notice carefully. Deadlines to appeal are strict.
  • For Medicaid/KanCare denials: Follow appeal instructions in your notice and consider help from Kansas Legal Services.
  • For Medicare plan issues: Call SHICK at 1‑800‑860‑5260.
  • For SNAP/LIEAP: You can request a fair hearing with DCF; instructions are on your notice.
  • Keep copies of appeals you submit and ask for proof of receipt.

Documenting your disability and need for help

  • Social Security award letters and recent medical records help with many applications.
  • For HCBS waivers, functional assessments focus on daily activities (bathing, dressing, meals, mobility, continence). Be honest about what you can and cannot do safely.
  • For disabled parking, your provider must certify the TR‑159 form: TR‑159 PDF

Contact directory by purpose

Purpose Best first call Backup
“I need home care and benefits navigation.” ADRC: 1‑855‑200‑2372 SHICK for Medicare items
“My Medicare bills are too high.” SHICK: 1‑800‑860‑5260 Apply for Extra Help and MSPs
“I need food and utilities help this month.” 211 Kansas DCF portal for SNAP/LIEAP
“I’m a veteran — where do I start?” KCVAO: 1‑800‑513‑7731 VA health systems (Topeka, Leavenworth, Wichita)
“I think a senior is being abused or exploited.” APS: 1‑800‑922‑5330 911 if danger is immediate

Checklist: steps to take this week

  1. Call ADRC (1‑855‑200‑2372) to review your needs and start HCBS/benefits screenings.
  2. Apply for KanCare if you may be eligible: Apply for KanCare
  3. If on Medicare, call SHICK (1‑800‑860‑5260) to check Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs.
  4. Apply for SNAP if money is tight: Food Assistance (DCF)
  5. If it’s winter, apply for LIEAP: Energy Assistance (DCF)
  6. Put property tax relief on your calendar for tax season: Homestead/Safe Senior (KDOR)

Disclaimer

Program rules, income limits, and application windows change. This guide provides general information and links to official sources. Always verify details with the agency or program before you apply or make decisions. Nothing here is legal or financial 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.

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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.