Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Massachusetts
Last updated: August 2025
Quick Help Box
- Emergencies: Call 911
- Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (press 1 for Veterans)
- Report elder abuse (24/7): 1-800-922-2275 Report elder abuse | Mass.gov
- MassOptions (statewide information & referrals for aging/disability): 1-844-422-6277; MassOptions
- SHINE (free Medicare/MassHealth counseling): 1-800-243-4636; SHINE counseling | Mass.gov
- Apply for SNAP food benefits: 1-877-382-2363; DTAConnect (apply/manage) »
- Home Energy/Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP): Apply for LIHEAP | Mass.gov »
- Veterans’ services in MA (Chapter 115 and more): Find your local Veterans’ Service Officer »
- Find your local Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) for in-home help: Locate your ASAP »
Who this guide is for
This guide is for Massachusetts residents age 60+ living with a disability (and their families or caregivers). It focuses on state-specific programs with direct links, real steps, and practical tips. We also cover options for Veterans, LGBTQ+ seniors, tribal members, and rural households.
We include realities and roadblocks, not just the sunny parts. Rules change, and waiting lists are real. Use the official links to confirm details before you apply.
Table: Programs at a Glance
| Need | Program(s) | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| Health coverage | MassHealth (Medicaid), Senior Care Options (SCO), PACE, Medicare Savings Programs, Health Safety Net | MassHealth overview », SCO », PACE » |
| Prescriptions | Prescription Advantage (state pharmacy), Medicare Part D help | Prescription Advantage », SHINE » |
| In‑home supports | Home Care Program via ASAPs, PCA, Adult Day Health, AFC/GAFC, Frail Elder Waiver | Find your ASAP », PCA Program » |
| Food | SNAP, HIP farmers’ market bonus, Meals on Wheels, Senior Farmers’ Market | SNAP in MA », HIP » |
| Housing & rent | Public housing (CHAMP), MRVP, Section 8, RAFT, Home Modification Loan Program | CHAMP », MRVP », RAFT », HMLP » |
| Utilities | LIHEAP fuel assistance, Mass Save, utility discount rates, shutoff protections | LIHEAP », Mass Save », Utility shutoff protections » |
| Transportation | MBTA The RIDE, RTA paratransit, MassHealth PT-1, Senior CharlieCard | THE RIDE », MassHealth transportation », RTA list » |
| Legal & rights | Long-Term Care Ombudsman, Disability Law Center, Senior Legal Helpline | LTC Ombudsman », Disability Law Center » |
Emergency help first
- Health or safety risk now? Call 911.
- Abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of someone 60+? Call 1-800-922-2275 any time to reach the Massachusetts Elder Abuse Hotline. See: Report elder abuse | Mass.gov.
- At risk of homelessness or a shutoff? Apply for emergency rental help via RAFT | Mass.gov and call your utility right away to ask about medical and winter shutoff protections: Utility protections | Mass.gov.
- Can’t sort it out alone? Call MassOptions at 1-844-422-6277. They will route you to your local Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) for case management or urgent supports: MassOptions.
Reality check: In urgent cases, ask for “expedited” help. Many programs have waitlists. Always tell the screener if you have a shutoff notice, eviction, or medical risk. That can move your case faster.
Health coverage and care
MassHealth (Medicaid) for seniors and people with disabilities
- What it is: State Medicaid for low- and moderate‑income residents. MassHealth can cover doctor visits, hospital care, medications, dental, home care, nursing home, and long‑term services and supports (LTSS), depending on your eligibility.
- Key routes for seniors with disabilities:
- MassHealth Standard (full Medicaid) for eligible adults 65+ and people with disabilities. See: MassHealth | Mass.gov.
- Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) help pay Medicare Part A/B premiums and sometimes deductibles/copays. In MA these are run through MassHealth. See: Medicare Savings Programs | Mass.gov.
- CommonHealth for disabled adults of any income who do not qualify for Standard. See: CommonHealth | Mass.gov.
- How to apply: Online, by mail, or in person. Start here: Apply for MassHealth coverage ».
- Reality check: Financial rules are complex (income, assets, spousal rules). If you’re stuck, call SHINE for free counseling: SHINE | Mass.gov or Health Care For All’s HelpLine (1-800-272-4232): HCFAMA HelpLine.
Senior Care Options (SCO)
- What it is: A MassHealth plan for people age 65+ who have MassHealth and may also have Medicare. You get one care team for medical, behavioral health, and long‑term care services. Many people also get dental, vision, hearing, and transportation bundled. Learn more: Senior Care Options (SCO) | Mass.gov.
- Why it matters: If you need help at home or coordination across doctors, SCO can simplify things and may add extra benefits.
- Reality check: Your doctor and preferred hospital may or may not be in the network. Check provider lists before enrolling.
PACE (Program of All‑Inclusive Care for the Elderly)
- What it is: A comprehensive program for adults age 55+ who meet a nursing home level of care but can safely live in the community. PACE provides medical care, adult day health, home care, medications, transportation, and more under one umbrella. Details: PACE in Massachusetts | Mass.gov.
- Why it matters: If you need many services and want to stay home, PACE can be a “one‑stop” option.
- Reality check: PACE centers serve set areas. You must use PACE providers. There may be a premium if you are not MassHealth‑eligible.
Health Safety Net (HSN)
- What it is: Helps income‑eligible Massachusetts residents pay for necessary hospital and community health center services. It’s a payer of last resort. Info: Health Safety Net | Mass.gov.
- Tip: Apply through a hospital or community health center’s financial assistance office.
Prescription coverage
- Prescription Advantage (state pharmacy program) helps lower Part D drug costs and provides a safety net during coverage gaps. See: Prescription Advantage | Mass.gov.
- Extra Help (federal) lowers Part D premiums and copays for those with limited income/resources. Apply via Social Security: Extra Help | SSA.gov.
- Get counseling on the best Part D plan for your drugs: SHINE | Mass.gov.
Dental, vision, and hearing
- MassHealth covers dental benefits for adults, including seniors. See covered services: MassHealth dental benefits | Mass.gov.
- SCO and PACE often add dental/vision/hearing. Verify plan details.
- For hearing-impaired services and relay: MassRelay (711) | Mass.gov and MCDHH | Mass.gov.
- For legal blindness services and assistive tech: Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB) ».
Home- and community‑based supports (HCBS)
MassHealth funds several programs that help people with disabilities live at home:
- Personal Care Attendant (PCA) Program: Consumer‑directed help with daily tasks (bathing, dressing, meals, etc.). You hire and manage your attendants; a fiscal intermediary handles pay. Start here: PCA Program | Mass.gov.
- Adult Day Health: Daytime nursing, therapy, and social supports. Info: Adult Day Health | Mass.gov.
- Adult Foster Care (AFC) and Group Adult Foster Care (GAFC): Caregiver support in a home setting (AFC) or supportive housing services (GAFC). See: AFC | Mass.gov, GAFC | Mass.gov.
- Frail Elder Waiver (FEW): Intensive in‑home services for adults 60+ who meet nursing facility level of care and financial rules. Overview: Frail Elder Waiver | Mass.gov.
- Family Caregiver Support Program: Counseling, training, respite for caregivers of adults 60+. See: Family Caregiver Support | Mass.gov.
Tip: Call your local ASAP for a care assessment and help choosing the right program: Find your ASAP.
Money help: income, bills, and taxes
Social Security and SSI/State Supplement
- SSDI/Retirement: Apply or manage benefits at SSA.gov.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Federal cash benefit for people with limited income/resources who are older or disabled. Apply here: SSI | SSA.gov.
- Massachusetts State Supplement Program (SSP): Extra state payment for many SSI recipients. Details and contact: State Supplement Program (SSP) | Mass.gov.
Reality check: SSI/SSP amounts depend on your living arrangement and other factors. Use official lines above; do not rely on estimates from friends.
Medicare cost help (paying premiums)
- Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) can pay some or all of your Medicare Part B premium and may cover deductibles/copays (QMB). Apply through MassHealth: MSPs in MA | Mass.gov.
- MassHealth Buy‑In is the MA name used in some materials for MSP enrollment. Start at the link above.
- Get plan advice from SHINE: SHINE | Mass.gov.
Taxes and property relief
- Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit: For eligible MA residents age 65+ who pay rent or property taxes above a set share of their income. See: Senior Circuit Breaker Credit | Mass.gov.
- Local property tax exemptions or deferrals may be available (e.g., Clause 41C, Clause 22 for disabled Veterans). Learn more: Property tax exemptions | Mass.gov.
- Free tax help (AARP Foundation Tax‑Aide) for low‑ to moderate‑income seniors: AARP Tax‑Aide.
Food and nutrition
- SNAP (food stamps): Monthly funds on an EBT card. Apply/manage via DTAConnect: DTAConnect » or learn more: SNAP in MA | Mass.gov. DTA Assistance Line: 1-877-382-2363.
- Healthy Incentives Program (HIP): Earn extra fruits/vegetables when you use SNAP at participating farmers’ markets and farm stands. See: HIP | Mass.gov.
- Meals on Wheels and congregate meals: Delivered and community meals run by your local ASAP. Start here: Find your ASAP ».
- Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal produce coupons for income‑eligible seniors. Learn more: SFMNP | Mass.gov.
- Extra help finding food: Project Bread FoodSource Hotline 1-800-645-8333; Project Bread.
Reality check: SNAP amounts vary by income, expenses, and household size. If you have high medical costs, ask DTA how to deduct them to increase your benefit.
Housing, home repairs, and accessibility
Finding and applying for affordable housing
- State public housing and some vouchers use CHAMP (Common Housing Application). Create an account and apply to many properties at once: CHAMP | Mass.gov.
- Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP): State-funded rental vouchers. Info: MRVP | Mass.gov.
- Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher): Apply through local housing authorities; many participate in a centralized waiting list. Find LHAs: Local Housing Authorities | Mass.gov.
- Search affordable listings: Housing Navigator Massachusetts (state‑supported, non‑profit).
Reality check: Waitlists are long. Apply to many towns and types of housing (elderly/disabled buildings, project‑based units, vouchers). Keep your contact info current in CHAMP.
Preventing eviction or homelessness
- RAFT (Residential Assistance for Families in Transition) can help with back rent, security deposits, and more if you qualify: RAFT | Mass.gov.
- Talk to your local Housing Court’s Lawyer for the Day program for free legal help. Find courts: Housing Court | Mass.gov.
Modifying your home for accessibility
- Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP): 0% interest, deferred‑payment loans to make a primary residence accessible (ramps, bathroom changes, lifts). Learn more and find your regional provider: HMLP | Mass.gov.
- Disability placards and plates (parking): Apply through the RMV | Mass.gov.
- Durable medical equipment reuse: Free or low‑cost refurbished items (wheelchairs, ramps, scooters) via REquipment: DME Reuse | REquipment. State AT info: Assistive Technology | Mass.gov.
Utilities and energy costs
- LIHEAP (Fuel Assistance): Help with heating bills, emergency deliveries, and heating system repair/replacement for eligible households. How to apply: LIHEAP | Mass.gov.
- Mass Save: No‑cost home energy assessments, weatherization, and appliance rebates. Income‑eligible customers can get enhanced services: Mass Save.
- Utility discount rates: Ask your electric/gas company about income‑eligible discounts: Eversource Discount Rate, National Grid Bill help.
- Shutoff protections: Households with all members age 65+ have special protections, plus medical and winter protections. Know your rights: Utility shutoff protections | Mass.gov.
Tip: Call your utility’s customer service as soon as you fall behind. Ask for arrearage management plans and medical protections with doctor verification.
Transportation
- MBTA The RIDE (Boston area paratransit): Door‑to‑door shared rides for people who cannot use fixed‑route buses/subways because of a disability. Apply here: THE RIDE | MBTA.
- Senior CharlieCard (MBTA reduced fare): Reduced Fares for Seniors | MBTA.
- MassHealth Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (PT‑1): If you have MassHealth and need rides to covered appointments, ask your provider to submit a PT‑1 request: MassHealth Transportation | Mass.gov.
- Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs): Each region runs buses and ADA paratransit. See the full list and links: RTAs in Massachusetts | Mass.gov.
Table: Transportation options in brief
| Area | Main system | Paratransit info |
|---|---|---|
| Greater Boston | MBTA | THE RIDE (apply/ride) » |
| Worcester County | WRTA | WRTA paratransit » |
| Pioneer Valley (Springfield/Amherst) | PVTA | PVTA paratransit » |
| Merrimack Valley | MeVa Transit | MeVa ADA paratransit » |
| Berkshires | BRTA | BRTA paratransit » |
| Cape & Islands | CCRTA (Cape), VTA (Vineyard), NRTA (Nantucket) | CCRTA DART », VTA Lift », NRTA Wave » |
Note: Links above go to official or agency sites; some RTA pages may update URLs. Use the MassDOT RTA list if a link changes.
Legal help and advocacy
- Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Independent advocates for residents of nursing homes and assisted living. Complaints about care, rights, discharges: LTC Ombudsman | Mass.gov.
- Disability Law Center (Protection & Advocacy): Free legal help on disability rights, discrimination, special education, and some benefits issues: DLC‑MA.org.
- Massachusetts Senior Legal Helpline: Free civil legal advice for residents 60+ (housing, benefits, consumer issues, abuse). Learn more and apply: Senior Legal Helpline | Mass.gov or check your regional legal aid: Mass Legal Services directory.
Tip: For health coverage denials, appeal deadlines are short. For MassHealth: Appeal a MassHealth decision | Mass.gov. For Medicare, ask SHINE to help with reconsiderations and appeals.
Work, volunteering, and rehabilitation
- SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program): Part‑time, paid training for job seekers 55+ with low income. Contact your local provider via EOEA: SCSEP in MA | Mass.gov.
- Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC): Vocational rehab, home care assistance for individuals with significant disabilities, and assistive tech services: MRC | Mass.gov.
- Accessible voting and civic engagement: The Secretary of the Commonwealth provides accessible vote‑by‑mail and polling place accommodations: Elections Division | sec.state.ma.us.
Veterans
- Chapter 115 (state Veterans’ benefits): Monthly financial assistance and medical reimbursements for eligible Veterans and dependents. Connect through your local Veterans’ Service Officer (VSO): Find your VSO | Mass.gov. Administered by the Executive Office of Veterans’ Services (EOVS).
- VA Aid & Attendance and Housebound benefits: Extra tax‑free payments if you need help with daily activities or are housebound: VA Aid & Attendance | VA.gov.
- Massachusetts Veterans’ Homes (Chelsea and Holyoke): Skilled nursing and long‑term care for eligible Veterans: Veterans’ Homes | Mass.gov.
- VA health care and caregivers: VA New England Healthcare » and VA Caregiver Support ».
Reality check: Benefits depend on discharge status, income, and service history. Your local VSO is the best first call to sort it out.
LGBTQ+ seniors
- LGBTQ Aging Project at Fenway Health: Training, support groups, cultural competency for providers, and resources for LGBTQ+ older adults: LGBTQ Aging Project | Fenway Health.
- SAGE National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging (national): Guides on housing, caregiving, legal planning, and discrimination: LGBTQ+ Aging Resource Center.
- Anti‑discrimination protections in MA: Know your rights in housing, health care, and public accommodations: Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD).
Tip: When choosing home care, assisted living, or nursing facilities, ask about LGBTQ+ training and policies. The Ombudsman can help address concerns: LTC Ombudsman | Mass.gov.
Tribal elders in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has two federally recognized tribes. If you are an enrolled member or live in tribal housing/jurisdiction areas, contact your tribal government for elder services alongside state options:
- Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe: Official site (look for Elder Services/Health & Human Services).
- Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah): Official site (see Elder Services or Community & Health resources).
Federal programs for Native elders and caregivers may be available through the tribe or regional providers. Also see: Administration for Community Living – Native American Aging Programs.
Rural seniors and families
If you live in Berkshire, Franklin, Hampshire, or other rural areas:
- Transportation: RTAs offer dial‑a‑ride and ADA paratransit. Start with the state list: RTAs in MA | Mass.gov. Ask your Council on Aging about local volunteer driver programs.
- Broadband and devices: Check the Massachusetts Broadband Institute for low‑cost internet and device initiatives: MBI | MassTech. The federal Affordable Connectivity Program ended in 2024; some providers still offer low‑cost plans. See Lifeline | USAC.
- Home heating: Many rural homes heat with oil, wood, or propane. LIHEAP can assist with deliveries and emergencies: LIHEAP | Mass.gov.
- Food access: Ask your ASAP about mobile markets and home‑delivered groceries. HIP can stretch SNAP at farm stands: HIP | Mass.gov.
Disability-specific agencies in Massachusetts
- Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC): Vocational rehab, home care assistance, brain injury services, and assistive technology: MRC | Mass.gov.
- Department of Developmental Services (DDS): Services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities: DDS | Mass.gov.
- Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB): Independent living, mobility training, technology, vocational services: MCB | Mass.gov.
- Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH): Communication access, interpreters, equipment distribution: MCDHH | Mass.gov.
Tip: These agencies can work alongside MassHealth, Medicare, SCO, or PACE. Ask for a joint care meeting if you have many providers.
Table: Key health and long-term care programs
| Program | Who it serves | What it provides | Start here |
|---|---|---|---|
| MassHealth Standard | Low‑income adults, 65+, and people with disabilities | Full Medicaid (medical, behavioral health, LTSS) | Apply for MassHealth » |
| Medicare Savings Programs | Medicare enrollees with limited income | Pays Part B premium; QMB also helps with cost‑sharing | MSPs in MA » |
| Senior Care Options (SCO) | Age 65+ with MassHealth (often Medicare too) | Integrated health + LTSS care team | About SCO » |
| PACE | Age 55+ needing nursing home level of care | All‑inclusive medical and home supports | PACE » |
| PCA Program | MassHealth members with functional needs | In‑home personal care you direct | PCA » |
| Prescription Advantage | Medicare enrollees | State pharmacy assistance | Prescription Advantage » |
Table: Housing and home modifications
| Need | Program | Notes | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public housing | CHAMP | One application for many towns | CHAMP » |
| State voucher | MRVP | Waitlists vary by region | MRVP » |
| Emergency rent | RAFT | Back rent, deposits, utilities | RAFT » |
| Accessibility | HMLP | 0% loans for ramps, baths, lifts | HMLP » |
| Nursing home help | MassHealth LTC | Financial rules are strict | MassHealth LTC » |
Table: Food and utility assistance
| Category | Program | What you get | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food | SNAP | Monthly EBT benefits | DTAConnect » |
| Produce bonus | HIP | Extra fruits/veggies with SNAP at farms | HIP » |
| Meals | Meals on Wheels | Home‑delivered meals | Find your ASAP » |
| Heat | LIHEAP | Fuel bill help, emergency deliveries | LIHEAP » |
| Efficiency | Mass Save | Weatherization and rebates | Mass Save » |
| Phone/Internet | Lifeline | Discount on phone/internet | Lifeline » |
Regional resources (by area)
Not sure who serves your town? Use MassOptions (1-844-422-6277) or the ASAP finder: Find your ASAP.
- Greater Boston
- Aging services: Ethos (Boston neighborhoods) – Ethos; Springwell (western suburbs) – Springwell.
- Transit: MBTA, THE RIDE – THE RIDE.
- North Shore & Merrimack Valley
- Central Massachusetts
- Aging services: Elder Services of Worcester Area – ESWA; Tri‑Valley, Inc. – Tri‑Valley.
- Transit: WRTA – WRTA.
- Western Massachusetts
- Aging services: Berkshire Area Agency on Aging (Elder Services of Berkshire County) – Elder Services of Berkshire; LifePath (Franklin/North Quabbin) – LifePath; Highland Valley Elder Services – Highland Valley; Greater Springfield Senior Services – GSSSI.
- Transit: PVTA, BRTA, FRTA – RTA list.
- South Shore, South Coast, Cape & Islands
Note: The organizations above are established providers in their regions. If a link changes, use the state ASAP finder or MassOptions to confirm current contacts.
Real‑world tips, warnings, and “gotchas”
- Always ask about expedited processing if you have a shutoff, eviction, or urgent medical need. Some programs can act faster.
- Keep copies of everything you submit (photos on your phone are fine).
- For CHAMP and voucher waitlists: log in every few months and update your preferences and contact info so you don’t get dropped.
- For MassHealth or Medicare plan changes: write down the name/date of any phone rep you speak with and ask for a confirmation letter.
- PCA tips: Line up backup attendants. Consider hiring a family member if allowed and appropriate. Your PCA agency can explain payroll and timesheets.
- Internet discounts: The federal ACP program ended funding in 2024; check Lifeline and provider low‑cost plans instead: FCC ACP info, Lifeline.
Frequently Asked Questions (Massachusetts‑specific)
Q1: I’m 68, on Medicare, and my income is limited. Can Massachusetts help pay my Part B premium?
- Yes. Apply for the Medicare Savings Programs through MassHealth. They can pay your Part B premium and, for QMB, also cover Medicare cost-sharing. Learn more and apply: Medicare Savings Programs | Mass.gov.
Q2: I need help bathing and dressing at home. Do I have to move to a nursing home?
- Not necessarily. Ask about the MassHealth PCA Program, Adult Foster Care, and the Frail Elder Waiver. Your local ASAP can assess your needs and help you apply: Find your ASAP. Program slots can be limited; apply early.
Q3: What’s the difference between SCO and PACE?
- Both coordinate medical and long-term care. SCO is for people 65+ on MassHealth (often also on Medicare). PACE is for adults 55+ who meet a nursing home level of care and live in a PACE service area. See details: SCO and PACE. SCO and PACE.
Q4: How do I get Meals on Wheels in my town?
- Call your local ASAP and ask for a nutrition assessment. They’ll set up home-delivered meals if you qualify: Find your ASAP.
Q5: I rent and got a Notice to Quit. What should I do right now?
- Don’t move out. Apply for RAFT immediately: RAFT | Mass.gov. Call your local Housing Court about free Lawyer for the Day services: Housing Court | Mass.gov. Save all paperwork.
Q6: My power company says they will shut off my electricity. Are there protections for seniors?
- Yes. Massachusetts has special winter, medical, and age-related protections (including for households where all members are 65+). Call your utility and review the rules here: Utility shutoff protections | Mass.gov. Also apply for LIHEAP | Mass.gov.
Q7: Can a family member be my paid PCA?
- , yes, under the PCA Program (with some restrictions). Talk with your PCA agency about who can be hired and how payroll works: PCA Program | Mass.gov.
Q8: Where can I get a free or low‑cost wheelchair or ramp?
- Try the statewide reuse program: REquipment DME Reuse. They refurbish donated equipment and match it with people who need it.
Q9: I’m a disabled Veteran. Should I talk to the VA or the state first?
- Do both. Your local Veterans’ Service Officer can screen you for Chapter 115 and help with VA claims: Find your VSO | Mass.gov. For VA Aid & Attendance, start here: VA A&A | VA.gov.
Q10: How do I apply for a disability parking placard?
- Apply through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). Your doctor must certify your disability: Disability plates and placards | Mass.gov.
Q11: I’m LGBTQ+ and worry about discrimination in senior housing. What are my options?
- Massachusetts law prohibits discrimination. You can contact MCAD to file a complaint: MCAD | Mass.gov. The LGBTQ Aging Project can help you find inclusive providers: Fenway Health | LGBTQ Aging Project. The Ombudsman can help with facility issues: LTC Ombudsman.
Q12: I can’t drive anymore. How can I still get to my doctor?
- If you are in the MBTA area, apply for THE RIDE: THE RIDE. If you have MassHealth, ask your provider to file a PT-1 for medical rides: MassHealth transportation. Outside Boston, check your RTA list.
Q13: My SNAP case was closed because I missed a form. Can I fix it?
- Usually yes, if you act quickly. Log into DTAConnect or call 1-877-382-2363. Explain any hardship (health, tech issues) and ask about good-cause and reinstatement.
Table: Important phone numbers (keep this handy)
| Service | Number | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Emergencies | 911 | — |
| Elder Abuse Hotline (24/7) | 1-800-922-2275 | Report elder abuse |
| MassOptions (Aging/Disability) | 1-844-422-6277 | MassOptions |
| SHINE (Medicare/MassHealth counseling) | 1-800-243-4636 | SHINE |
| DTA Assistance Line (SNAP/cash) | 1-877-382-2363 | DTAConnect |
| Health Care For All HelpLine | 1-800-272-4232 | HCFAMA HelpLine |
| Social Security | 1-800-772-1213 | SSA.gov |
| Veterans Crisis Line | 988 (press 1) | VA Crisis |
Step‑by‑step: If you’re newly disabled or newly 65+ in Massachusetts
- Make a benefits map.
- List your current coverage (Medicare? MassHealth?), income sources, rent, and key needs (home help, medications, transportation).
- Call MassOptions (1-844-422-6277).
- Ask for your local ASAP. Request an in‑home assessment and information on home care, meals, transportation, and caregiver support.
- Check health coverage.
- If low income, apply to MassHealth and the Medicare Savings Programs: Apply for MassHealth.
- Compare SCO vs. PACE with SHINE: SHINE.
- Stabilize housing and utilities.
- Improve food security.
- Apply for SNAP at DTAConnect. Ask DTA about medical expense deductions.
- Ask your ASAP for Meals on Wheels.
- Add supports.
- Ask MassHealth or your ASAP about PCA, Adult Day Health, AFC/GAFC, and the Frail Elder Waiver.
- For home accessibility, contact HMLP: HMLP.
- Keep records and appeal if needed.
- Save letters. If denied, consider an appeal: MassHealth appeals. SHINE and legal aid can help.
Sources and data notes
- Program pages and applications are linked throughout to official Massachusetts or federal websites (Mass.gov, SSA.gov, VA.gov, FCC.gov) and well‑established providers (e.g., MBTA, RTAs, Housing Navigator MA).
- For current eligibility amounts (income/asset limits), always check the linked official page. Limits change yearly.
Selected official references:
- MassHealth: Mass.gov MassHealth portal
- SCO: Mass.gov SCO
- PACE: Mass.gov PACE
- Health Safety Net: Mass.gov HSN
- Prescription Advantage: Mass.gov Prescription Advantage
- PCA: Mass.gov PCA
- Frail Elder Waiver: Mass.gov FEW
- SNAP: Mass.gov SNAP
- HIP: Mass.gov HIP
- CHAMP: Mass.gov CHAMP
- MRVP: Mass.gov MRVP
- RAFT: Mass.gov RAFT
- LIHEAP: Mass.gov LIHEAP
- Utility shutoff protections: Mass.gov protections
- THE RIDE: MBTA THE RIDE
- RTA list: Mass.gov RTAs
- LTC Ombudsman: Mass.gov Ombudsman
- Disability Law Center: dlc-ma.org
- Senior Legal Helpline: Mass.gov information
Disclaimer
Program rules, amounts, and providers change. Always confirm details on the official website or with the agency before you apply or make decisions. This guide is informational and is not legal, 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: Through October 2024 (see official links throughout)
- 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.
