Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Arkansas
Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Arkansas (2026)
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This Arkansas-specific guide explains real programs that can help with healthcare, long-term care, housing, utilities, food, transportation, legal issues, and more. It focuses on state programs, how to apply, and what to expect. Links go to official or well-established sources so you can double‑check details.
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| Need | What to do | Official link or number |
|---|---|---|
| Life‑threatening emergency | Call 911 | 911 |
| Mental health crisis or thoughts of suicide | Call or text 988 (24/7). Veterans press 1. | 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org |
| Find nearby help (food, housing, bills) | Dial 211 or search statewide resources | Arkansas 211 (United Way): https://www.arkansas211.org |
| Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an adult | Report online or by phone to Adult Protective Services | Arkansas DHS Adult Protective Services: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/ and search “Adult Protective Services” |
| Apply for Medicaid, SNAP, cash/utility help | Apply online or get local DHS office info | ACCESS Arkansas: https://access.arkansas.gov |
| Medicare questions or plan counseling | Free, unbiased counseling | Arkansas SHIP (via SHIP national locator): https://www.shiphelp.org/ |
| Social Security (SSI/SSDI/retirement) | Claims, appeals, benefit questions | Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov or 1-800-772-1213 |
| VA benefits and state veteran help | Claims, tax breaks, homes, services | Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs: https://www.veterans.arkansas.gov |
| Housing counseling or eviction help | HUD‑approved counselors | HUD Housing Counseling: https://www.hud.gov/counseling |
Reality check: Response times vary. If a phone wait is long, try calling early morning. If an online portal times out, try a different browser or ask a library or Area Agency on Aging for help.
How to use this guide
- Start with Emergency Money and Housing if you’re in a crisis.
- If you need care at home, read Medicaid and Long‑Term Care Options.
- Use the Resources by Region section to find your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for hands‑on help.
- Keep your documents ready: ID, Social Security number, proof of Arkansas address, proof of income (award letters, bank statements), medical records, and recent bills.
Tip: Create a simple folder for “Applications” and one for “Letters & Decisions.” Bring these to appointments.
Emergency money, housing, and food
These programs can help in a crisis. Many are first‑come, first‑served.
- Utilities
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): helps with electric, gas, propane bills, and crisis situations like disconnection. Apply through ACCESS Arkansas or your local Community Action Agency. See program overview at the U.S. Office of Community Services: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap and apply in Arkansas via ACCESS Arkansas: https://access.arkansas.gov
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): reduces energy costs through home improvements (insulation, air sealing, HVAC tune‑ups). Administered in Arkansas by the Arkansas Energy Office. Learn more: https://energy.arkansas.gov/energy-efficiency/weatherization-assistance-program/
- Rent and eviction
- HUD‑approved housing counselors can help with landlord issues, repayment plans, and referrals to local aid. Find a counselor: https://www.hud.gov/counseling
- Public Housing and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) are managed by local public housing authorities; waitlists open and close. Find options in Arkansas: https://www.hud.gov/states/arkansas/renting
- Food today and monthly
- SNAP (food stamps): apply at ACCESS Arkansas: https://access.arkansas.gov. Program details from DHS: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov (search “SNAP”).
- Senior meals: Area Agencies on Aging provide congregate meals and home‑delivered meals funded by the Older Americans Act (age 60+). Find your AAA via DHS: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov (search “Area Agency on Aging Arkansas”).
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) for age 60+ provides a monthly food package. See USDA CSFP info: https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp and ask your local AAA if your county has CSFP.
- Find a food pantry: Arkansas Foodbank network via Feeding America: https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank
- Abuse or exploitation
- Report adult maltreatment to Arkansas Adult Protective Services through DHS: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov (search “Adult Protective Services Arkansas”).
Reality check: Emergency grants are limited and often require proof of crisis (cut‑off notice, eviction notice, or medical emergency). Apply early in the week and keep copies of all documents.
Medicaid and long‑term care options (home care, assisted living, nursing care)
Medicaid is run by Arkansas DHS and can cover in‑home help, assisted living, or nursing home care if you meet medical and financial rules. Applications are through ACCESS Arkansas.
Official portal: https://access.arkansas.gov
Arkansas DHS home page: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov
Table: Main Medicaid long‑term services in Arkansas
| Program | What it covers | Who it helps | Where to apply / learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| ARChoices in Homecare (1915(c) Waiver) | Help at home like personal care, respite, home modifications, and other supports to stay safely at home. | Adults who meet nursing home level of care, including many age 65+ and adults with disabilities. | Apply via ACCESS Arkansas: https://access.arkansas.gov and see DHS info (search “ARChoices in Homecare” on DHS site). |
| Living Choices Assisted Living Waiver | Services in approved Level II assisted living facilities (e.g., personal care, med oversight). | Adults who need assisted living services and meet Medicaid medical/financial criteria. | Start with ACCESS Arkansas and contact your local AAA for facility options. |
| Nursing Facility Medicaid | Room, board, nursing care in a licensed nursing facility. | People who meet nursing facility level of care and income/asset rules. | Apply via ACCESS Arkansas; compare facilities at Medicare Care Compare: https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare |
| Independent Choices (Self‑Directed) | Lets you hire/manage your own caregiver (including certain family/friends) with training and support. | People eligible for in‑home personal care who want to choose their worker. | Ask DHS or your waiver case manager; apply via ACCESS Arkansas. |
| Medicaid ARHOME (Medicaid expansion) | Full health coverage through qualified health plans with extra supports. | Low‑ to moderate‑income adults. Some older adults under 65 with disabilities may qualify. | See DHS ARHOME overview (search “ARHOME Arkansas DHS”); apply via ACCESS Arkansas. |
Important notes
- Medical eligibility: A nurse usually does an assessment (e.g., for ARChoices) to determine if you meet the level of care.
- Financial eligibility: Income, assets, and spousal rules are complicated and change. Ask DHS or a certified elder law attorney. Use ACCESS Arkansas to submit documents and track status.
- Waiting lists: Waiver programs can have waitlists. Stay in touch with your caseworker and update contact info so you don’t lose your place.
Helpful links
- ACCESS Arkansas applications: https://access.arkansas.gov
- DHS program listings (aging and adult services): https://humanservices.arkansas.gov
- Medicare Care Compare (nursing homes, home health, rehab): https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare
Medicare, Medicare Savings Programs, and free counseling
- Free counseling: Arkansas participates in the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Counselors can review Medicare Advantage and drug plans, Medigap, and help file appeals.
- Find Arkansas SHIP counselors via the national SHIP locator: https://www.shiphelp.org/
- Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs): If your income/resources are limited, MSPs may pay your Part B premium and sometimes copays/deductibles.
- Official overview: Medicare MSPs: https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/medicare-savings-programs
- Apply through ACCESS Arkansas: https://access.arkansas.gov
- Extra Help (Part D Low‑Income Subsidy): Lowers prescription drug premiums and copays if you qualify.
- SSA page and application: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/
Reality check: Plan marketing can be confusing. Don’t rush during phone sales calls. Use SHIP counseling, read the Summary of Benefits, and check that your doctors and drugs are covered before you switch.
In‑home support, caregivers, and respite
- Family Caregiver Support (Older Americans Act): Local AAAs offer caregiver coaching, support groups, respite vouchers, and sometimes short‑term supplies.
- Find your AAA via DHS: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov (search “Area Agencies on Aging Arkansas”).
- ARChoices in Homecare: Medicaid waiver with help for bathing, dressing, meals, respite, and safety modifications (see previous table).
- Independent Choices (self‑directed personal care): Lets you hire and supervise your own caregiver. Ask your case manager.
- Adult day services: Structured daytime care that gives caregivers a break. Regulated under Arkansas DHS’s Office of Long Term Care.
- Learn about facility licensing via DHS (search “Office of Long Term Care Arkansas”).
- Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Independent help in nursing homes and assisted living to resolve complaints.
- Contact via DHS Aging services: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov (search “Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Arkansas”).
Tip: Keep a simple care plan (med list, diagnoses, emergency contacts, daily needs). Share it with every provider.
Money, legal help, and tax relief
Table: Money and legal supports in Arkansas
| Topic | What it does | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| SSI and SSDI | Monthly income for people with limited income/resources (SSI) or who have a work history and disability (SSDI). | Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/ and SSI: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/ |
| Legal aid (civil) | Help with denial appeals (Medicaid, SNAP), housing, consumer scams, advance directives, and more. | Center for Arkansas Legal Services: https://www.arkansaslegal.org and Legal Aid of Arkansas: https://arlegalaid.org |
| Property tax relief: Homestead Tax Credit | Arkansas provides a homestead property tax credit for eligible homeowners on their primary residence. | Arkansas DFA (Homestead Tax Credit): https://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/ (search “Homestead Credit Arkansas DFA”). Apply with your county assessor. |
| Assessment freeze (age/disabled) | Arkansas law provides that the assessed value of a homestead shall not increase for homeowners age 65+ or totally disabled, with certain exceptions. | Ask your county assessor; see Arkansas DFA/Assessment Coordination Division: https://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/ (search “Assessment Coordination Division”). |
| Disabled veterans property tax exemption | Arkansas provides property tax exemptions for qualifying disabled veterans and surviving spouses/dependents. | Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs: https://www.veterans.arkansas.gov (search “tax exemption”). |
| Fraud prevention | Report Medicare fraud/errors to protect your benefits. | Senior Medicare Patrol (national): https://www.smpresource.org/ |
Reality check: Property tax credits and freezes require you to file with the county assessor and keep paperwork up to date. Rules vary by county. Take your ID, deed, and disability or age proof.
Housing repairs, accessibility, and energy savings
- USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504): Grants for very low‑income homeowners age 62+ to remove health/safety hazards; loans for others. Arkansas residents apply via USDA Rural Development Arkansas.
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Energy‑saving home improvements at no cost to eligible households.
- Arkansas Energy Office WAP: https://energy.arkansas.gov/energy-efficiency/weatherization-assistance-program/
- Fair housing help
- Arkansas Fair Housing Commission investigates housing discrimination. Learn and file a complaint: https://www.arkansasfairhousing.com
- HUD Fair Housing: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp
- Accessibility grants and AT
- Arkansas Assistive Technology Program (ICAN) offers device loans, reuse, and demos statewide. Find Arkansas via the national directory: https://at3center.net/state-at-program/arkansas/
- Medicare Care Compare to find home health agencies that can help with safe‑at‑home plans: https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare
Tip: Before paying a contractor, ask USDA RD, AAA, or WAP if a free or subsidized option exists. Always get a written bid and check licensing.
Transportation
Table: Getting there for appointments and errands
| Option | What it covers | How to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) | Rides to covered medical appointments for Medicaid members. May include mileage reimbursement. | Check Arkansas DHS (search “Medicaid transportation Arkansas DHS”). Schedule rides early; have your Medicaid ID and appointment info. |
| AAA transportation | Many Area Agencies on Aging offer rides to senior centers, grocery stores, and medical visits. | Contact your local AAA (find via DHS site). |
| ADA paratransit | Door‑to‑door service for riders who can’t use fixed‑route buses due to a disability, within local transit areas. | Contact your city’s transit agency (e.g., Rock Region METRO in Little Rock: https://rrmetro.org). |
| Volunteer driver programs | Local nonprofits may arrange volunteer drivers for seniors in rural areas. | Ask your AAA or 211 for a referral. |
| Disabled parking placards/plates | Parking privileges for individuals with qualifying disabilities. | Arkansas DFA Office of Motor Vehicle: https://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/office-of-motor-vehicle/ (search “disabled placard”). |
Reality check: NEMT usually requires 2–3 business days’ notice. If you use a wheelchair or need an escort, say so when you book.
Communications, hearing, and vision
- Lifeline phone and internet discount: Monthly discount on phone or broadband for eligible low‑income households.
- Program and how to apply: https://www.lifelinesupport.org
- Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): Congress ended ACP funding in 2024; check the FCC page for any updates or replacements.
- FCC ACP updates: https://www.fcc.gov/acp
- Arkansas Talking Books (Library for the Blind and Print Disabled): Free audiobooks and braille by mail or online for eligible Arkansans with print disabilities.
- Arkansas State Library (Talking Books): https://www.library.arkansas.gov (search “Talking Books”)
- Assistive Technology (AT) devices and reuse: See the Arkansas AT program via AT3 Center directory: https://at3center.net/state-at-program/arkansas/
Food and nutrition for seniors and people with disabilities
Table: Reliable ways to get food support
| Program | What it does | How to apply |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP (food stamps) | Monthly benefit on an EBT card to buy groceries. Seniors have special deductions for medical expenses. | Apply at ACCESS Arkansas: https://access.arkansas.gov. Learn more at DHS (search “SNAP Arkansas”). |
| Senior meals (OAA) | Free or low‑cost meals at senior centers; home‑delivered meals for those who qualify. | Contact your Area Agency on Aging (find via DHS). |
| CSFP (age 60+) | Monthly food package of shelf‑stable items for older adults with limited income. | Ask your AAA or see USDA CSFP details: https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp |
| Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (seasonal) | Coupons for fresh fruits/vegetables at participating markets. Availability varies by county. | Ask your AAA; USDA overview: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp |
Tip: Keep receipts for out‑of‑pocket medical costs; SNAP rules allow deductions that may increase your benefit. See SNAP medical expense rules at USDA FNS: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/elderly-disabled-deductions
Health care access and clinics
- Community Health Centers (FQHCs): Primary care, dental, behavioral health, and pharmacy on a sliding fee scale.
- Find a clinic near you: https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov
- Arkansas Department of Health: Local Health Units offer vaccinations and other services.
- ADH locations and services: https://healthy.arkansas.gov (search “Local Health Units”)
- Mental health and substance use: 988 for crises; check your Medicaid plan or AAA for local counselors. For serious or long‑standing needs, ask your doctor about specialty care and community mental health centers through DHS.
Reality check: Bring a list of medications and allergies to each appointment. Ask for a printed after‑visit summary.
Veteran seniors in Arkansas
- State veterans’ homes: Arkansas operates State Veterans Homes in North Little Rock and Fayetteville for eligible veterans.
- Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs: https://www.veterans.arkansas.gov
- Property tax exemption: Arkansas provides property tax relief for qualifying disabled veterans and survivors (documentation required).
- Learn more and verify: https://www.veterans.arkansas.gov (search “tax exemption”)
- VA health care and benefits:
- Enroll or check eligibility: https://www.va.gov/health-care/
- File a claim or appeal: https://www.va.gov/disability/
- Find a County Veteran Service Officer (CVSO) via ADVA: https://www.veterans.arkansas.gov (search “County Service Officer”)
- Crisis support for veterans: Dial 988, then Press 1, or chat: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net
Tip: Bring your DD‑214, rating letter, and any medical evidence to CVSO appointments.
LGBTQ+ seniors
- SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline: 877‑360‑5428 provides support and connections to LGBTQ‑affirming resources.
- Details: https://www.sageusa.org
- Medicare nondiscrimination protections: Learn your rights and how to file complaints.
- HHS Office for Civil Rights: https://www.hhs.gov/ocr
- Local support: For friendly healthcare and housing referrals, ask your AAA and a SHIP counselor. If you face discrimination in housing, contact the Arkansas Fair Housing Commission: https://www.arkansasfairhousing.com
Tip: If family support is limited, ask your AAA about caregiver support options that include friends or chosen family.
Tribal and Native seniors in Arkansas
While Arkansas does not have federally recognized tribes headquartered in the state, many Native American and Alaska Native people live in Arkansas and may qualify for federal or tribal services.
- Indian Health Service (IHS) Nashville Area serves tribes and urban Indian communities in the region that includes Arkansas.
- IHS Nashville Area: https://www.ihs.gov/nashville/
- American Indian Center of Arkansas (AICA): Workforce development and supportive services for eligible Native people in Arkansas.
- AICA: search “American Indian Center of Arkansas” or ask 211 for a referral.
- Elders who are enrolled tribal citizens should contact their tribe’s elders program or benefits office for home‑and‑community services, LIHEAP, and other supports; services may be available even if you live outside the tribal service area, depending on program rules.
Tip: Keep a copy of your Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) or tribal ID when applying for IHS or tribal programs.
Rural seniors and limited access areas
- Rides and telehealth
- Ask your AAA about volunteer drivers and shuttle days.
- Many clinics offer telehealth by phone if video isn’t possible; ask your provider’s office.
- Mail‑order pharmacy: Medicare Part D and many Medicaid plans offer mail‑order prescriptions. Ask your plan for 90‑day fills.
- Internet and phone savings: Lifeline discounts can reduce phone or broadband bills: https://www.lifelinesupport.org
- Home repairs: USDA Section 504 grants/loans support rural homeowners age 62+: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
Tip: Libraries can help with printing, scanning, and online applications. Call ahead to check hours and accessibility.
Disability benefits and work supports
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Apply or appeal online: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/ and https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/
- Arkansas Disability Determination for SSA (DDS) makes medical decisions on claims. Learn about the DDS role on SSA’s site: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/appeal.html
- Arkansas Rehabilitation Services (ARS): Help with job training, assistive tech for work, and supported employment for people with disabilities.
- ARS (Division of Workforce Services): https://www.dws.arkansas.gov/rehabilitation-services/
- Ticket to Work (for SSDI/SSI beneficiaries): Free employment services; benefits counseling to avoid losing healthcare.
- SSA Ticket to Work: https://www.ssa.gov/work/
Reality check: If you try working while on SSDI/SSI, get benefits counseling first. Keep every paycheck stub and report earnings on time.
Resources by region: Find your Area Agency on Aging (AAA)
Arkansas’ AAAs are the front door for senior services: meals, transportation, caregiver support, case management, options counseling, and help with Medicaid long‑term care applications.
- Find your local AAA through Arkansas DHS (map and contacts): https://humanservices.arkansas.gov (search “Area Agency on Aging Arkansas”).
When you call:
- Ask for Options Counseling or the Choices in Living Resource Center.
- Say if you’re a caregiver, veteran, LGBTQ+, Native, or live rurally—it can open more options.
- Ask about home‑delivered meals, transportation days, caregiver respite, and in‑home help screening.
Application steps that work (Arkansas-specific)
- Set up an ACCESS Arkansas account and list all programs you may need (Medicaid, SNAP, MSPs): https://access.arkansas.gov
- Upload documents: ID, Social Security card, proof of address, bank statements, benefit award letters (SSA/VA), medical bills, and any eviction or shut‑off notices.
- Ask for help from your AAA or a library if the portal is hard to use.
- Keep a log: date you applied, confirmation number, and any caseworker names.
- Check your mail and ACCESS messages weekly; respond quickly to requests.
- If denied, appeal by the deadline on your notice. Legal aid can help:
- Center for Arkansas Legal Services: https://www.arkansaslegal.org
- Legal Aid of Arkansas: https://arlegalaid.org
Program snapshots: what they are and how they help
These short summaries explain key Arkansas programs in plain language.
- ARChoices in Homecare (Medicaid waiver): Helps you live at home instead of a nursing home by paying for personal care, caregiver respite, and safety upgrades when you meet medical and financial rules. Apply at ACCESS Arkansas.
- Living Choices Assisted Living Waiver: Pays for services in certain Level II assisted living facilities for those who qualify medically and financially. There may be waitlists.
- Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Independent advocates who help resolve problems in nursing homes and assisted living, from care plans to billing. Contact via DHS aging services.
- SHIP (Medicare counseling): Free, unbiased help to compare Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and drug plans; can screen you for MSPs and Extra Help.
- LIHEAP & Weatherization: Keep the lights on and lower your bills with one‑time utility help and permanent home energy improvements.
- USDA 504 Home Repair: Grants/loans for essential home repairs and accessibility in rural areas, with grants for 62+ very low‑income homeowners.
- Legal aid: Helps with denials, overpayments, debt collectors, and elder law (wills, POAs, guardianship). Free for eligible clients.
More useful tables
Table: Health and insurance help at a glance
| Need | Best first step | Official link |
|---|---|---|
| Find a Medicare plan that covers your drugs | Get SHIP counseling | https://www.shiphelp.org/ |
| Lower Medicare costs | Apply for MSPs and Extra Help | MSPs: https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/medicare-savings-programs; Extra Help: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/ |
| Find a dentist or primary care with sliding fees | Search FQHCs | https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov |
| Compare nursing homes/home health | Medicare Care Compare | https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare |
Table: Key application portals and directories
| What | Link |
|---|---|
| ACCESS Arkansas benefits portal | https://access.arkansas.gov |
| Arkansas DHS main site | https://humanservices.arkansas.gov |
| Arkansas 211 statewide search | https://www.arkansas211.org |
| HUD rental help (Arkansas) | https://www.hud.gov/states/arkansas/renting |
| USDA Rural Development Arkansas | https://www.rd.usda.gov/agency/contact-us/state-offices/arkansas |
| Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs | https://www.veterans.arkansas.gov |
Reality checks, warnings, and practical tips
- Don’t pay for help to apply: DHS, AAA, SHIP, legal aid, and VA service officers help for free.
- Waitlists happen: For waivers (ARChoices, Living Choices) and housing vouchers. Ask about temporary alternatives (home health through Medicare, short‑term caregiver respite).
- Keep copies: Photocopy every document you hand in. Upload PDFs to ACCESS Arkansas when possible.
- Watch for scams: Government programs will not call to ask for bank info “to issue your benefits.” Hang up and call the official number listed on the agency’s website.
- Re‑certifications matter: Missing a renewal can stop benefits. Mark the date on a calendar and ask your AAA to remind you.
Frequently Asked Questions (Arkansas‑specific)
- How do I apply for in‑home care through Medicaid in Arkansas?
Apply at ACCESS Arkansas: https://access.arkansas.gov and select ARChoices in Homecare. A nurse assessment determines level of care—keep your phone available for scheduling. - My power is about to be disconnected. Can I get help?
Apply for LIHEAP through ACCESS Arkansas and call 211 for local utility funds. Learn about LIHEAP: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap - Where can I get free help comparing Medicare Advantage and drug plans?
SHIP provides free, unbiased counseling for Medicare Advantage, Part D, and Medigap. Find help: https://www.shiphelp.org/ - I’m 65+ and own my home. Can I get property tax relief?
Arkansas offers a homestead tax credit and an assessment value freeze for homeowners age 65+ or totally disabled (with exceptions). Apply with your county assessor. See DFA/Assessment Coordination info at https://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/ (search “homestead credit” or “assessment coordination”). - Can I hire my daughter to help me at home?
Possibly. Arkansas’ Independent Choices (self-direction) may allow some family caregivers to be paid if you qualify for personal care services. Ask your Medicaid caseworker about eligibility and rules. - Is there help for hearing or vision disabilities?
Yes. ICAN—the state assistive technology program—offers device loans and demos: https://at3center.net/state-at-program/arkansas/. For audiobooks and braille, see Arkansas Talking Books via the Arkansas State Library: https://www.library.arkansas.gov - What if I can’t drive to the doctor?
Medicaid members can use Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)—book several days ahead through your plan. If not on Medicaid, ask your Area Agency on Aging about senior rides or volunteer driver programs. - How do I get meals delivered to my home?
Call your local Area Agency on Aging to ask about home-delivered meals under the Older Americans Act. Find your AAA via DHS: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov - I’m a disabled veteran. What state benefits should I check?
Review property tax exemptions for qualifying disabled veterans and Arkansas State Veterans Homes. Start at the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs: https://www.veterans.arkansas.gov - What if I face discrimination when renting because I use a wheelchair or because I’m LGBTQ+?
File a fair housing complaint with the Arkansas Fair Housing Commission: https://www.arkansasfairhousing.com or with HUD: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp - I lost my SNAP card. How do I replace it?
Report and request a replacement EBT card via Arkansas EBT customer service (see your SNAP approval letter) or contact DHS through ACCESS Arkansas: https://access.arkansas.gov - Is there still a federal internet discount program?
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended when federal funding ran out in 2024—see updates: https://www.fcc.gov/acp. You can still apply for Lifeline: https://www.lifelinesupport.org - Who can help me appeal a Medicaid or SNAP denial?
Contact legal aid promptly: Center for Arkansas Legal Services: https://www.arkansaslegal.org or Legal Aid of Arkansas: https://arlegalaid.org for appeal help and representation.
Source‑backed highlights and where to verify
- Arkansas benefits portal (Medicaid, SNAP, and more): ACCESS Arkansas: https://access.arkansas.gov
- Arkansas DHS program information: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov
- LIHEAP program overview (federal): https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap
- Weatherization in Arkansas: https://energy.arkansas.gov/energy-efficiency/weatherization-assistance-program/
- Medicare counseling (SHIP): https://www.shiphelp.org/
- MSPs and Extra Help: https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/medicare-savings-programs and https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/
- HUD rental options in Arkansas: https://www.hud.gov/states/arkansas/renting
- USDA 504 repairs: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
- Arkansas Fair Housing Commission: https://www.arkansasfairhousing.com
- Lifeline: https://www.lifelinesupport.org
- Arkansas State Library (Talking Books): https://www.library.arkansas.gov
- HRSA Health Center Finder: https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov
- Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs: https://www.veterans.arkansas.gov
- IHS Nashville Area: https://www.ihs.gov/nashville/
- SNAP medical deduction rules (USDA): https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/elderly-disabled-deductions
Inclusive groups and specialized help
- Veteran seniors: See Veteran section above and ADVA: https://www.veterans.arkansas.gov
- LGBTQ+ seniors: SAGE Hotline 877‑360‑5428; fair housing complaints: https://www.arkansasfairhousing.com
- Tribal/Native seniors: IHS Nashville Area: https://www.ihs.gov/nashville/; ask 211 for AICA contact.
- Rural seniors: USDA repairs: https://www.rd.usda.gov/agency/contact-us/state-offices/arkansas; HRSA clinics: https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov; AAA transportation.
Final checklist before you apply
- I created an ACCESS Arkansas account: https://access.arkansas.gov
- I have scans/photos of my ID, Social Security card, proof of address, bank statements, and benefit letters.
- I asked my AAA for options counseling and caregiver help.
- I called SHIP before changing Medicare plans: https://www.shiphelp.org/
- I looked at weatherization and USDA repairs before hiring a contractor.
- I set calendar reminders for renewals and follow‑ups.
Disclaimer
Programs change, funding opens and closes, and eligibility rules are updated. Always verify details with the official agency or program website linked in this guide before you apply or make decisions. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, medical, 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
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