Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Nebraska

Last updated: August 2025

Quick help box (always visible)

  • Emergencies: Call 911
  • Mental health or suicidal crisis: Call or text 988 or use the 988 chat at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
  • Adult abuse, neglect, or exploitation (Nebraska): 24/7 hotline 1-800-652-1999 through Nebraska DHHS Adult Protective Services
  • Find local help fast (food, shelter, utility help): Call 211 or visit Nebraska 211
  • Elder services navigator: Eldercare Locator (national) at 1-800-677-1116 or Eldercare Locator website

This guide focuses on real, practical benefits and services for Nebraskans age 60+ who live with a disability, long-term condition, or mobility limitations. It explains what each program does, who it helps, how to apply, and where to get one-on-one help in Nebraska. Links go to official or widely trusted sources.


How to use this guide

  • Start with the Emergency section if you need immediate help.
  • Skim the “At a glance” tables for programs you might qualify for.
  • Use the step-by-step playbooks to apply for Medicaid long-term care, SNAP, LIHEAP, and the Homestead Exemption.
  • If you get stuck, call your local Area Agency on Aging or the Nebraska Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) through the Eldercare Locator.

Emergency help in Nebraska

When safety, health, or utilities are at risk, act quickly. Programs may have waiting lists, paperwork, and eligibility rules; calling early improves your chances.

Immediate contacts (save these)

Need Who to call What they do Link
Life-threatening emergency 911 Police, fire, ambulance
Suicide or mental health crisis 988 Free 24/7 support; connects to local counselors 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Abuse, neglect, exploitation of older or vulnerable adults 1-800-652-1999 (Nebraska DHHS APS) Takes reports statewide, 24/7; can send help Nebraska DHHS Adult Protective Services
Essential needs (food, shelter, bills, disasters) 211 Connects to nearby services Nebraska 211
Veteran in crisis 988 then press 1 VA responders 24/7 Veterans Crisis Line

Reality check:

  • If you’re in danger or without heat, don’t wait to collect documents—call now.
  • Keep a simple “go folder” with ID, insurance cards, Medicare/Medicaid numbers, Social Security letter, and list of medicines. It speeds up help.

Nebraska benefits at a glance

The programs below are the most used by disabled seniors. Eligibility depends on age, disability, income, assets, and where you live. Always confirm with the agency.

Program Who it helps What it covers Where to apply/learn more
Nebraska Medicaid (Heritage Health) Low-income seniors; people needing long-term care Doctor visits, hospital, nursing home, in-home long-term services (HCBS), personal assistance Nebraska DHHS Medicaid; Apply at ACCESSNebraska
Aged & Disabled (A&D) Waiver (HCBS) Seniors who meet nursing facility level of care but want to stay at home/assisted living In-home supports, personal care, adult day, home modifications, assisted living services (as authorized) Nebraska DHHS Medicaid (HCBS Waivers)
Medicaid Personal Assistance Services (PAS) Medicaid members with disabilities who need help with daily tasks Help with bathing, dressing, meals; often self-directed Nebraska DHHS Medicaid
PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) Seniors needing nursing home level of care who prefer community living All Medicare/Medicaid-covered care via one team; transport included Medicare’s PACE information
Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI) Medicare members with limited income Helps pay Medicare Part A/B premiums and sometimes deductibles/coinsurance Nebraska DHHS Medicare Savings Programs
Extra Help (Part D) Medicare with limited income/resources Lowers Part D drug costs SSA Extra Help
SNAP (“Food Stamps”) Low-income seniors and disabled people Monthly grocery money on EBT card Apply at ACCESSNebraska; SNAP info
Home-delivered and community meals Older adults; priority to those with greatest need Hot meals at home or senior centers; nutrition checks Find your Area Agency on Aging via Eldercare Locator
LIHEAP (energy assistance) Low-income households Help with heating/cooling bills; crisis help Nebraska LIHEAP (DHHS) via ACCESSNebraska
Weatherization Assistance Low-income homeowners/renters Insulation, air sealing, safety checks to cut utility costs Nebraska Weatherization Assistance (state energy office)
Homestead Exemption (property tax) Seniors 65+, disabled individuals, and qualifying disabled veterans/survivors Reduces property tax on primary home Nebraska Dept. of Revenue Homestead Exemption
Public/ADA transit & paratransit Seniors and people with disabilities Low-cost rides; ADA door-to-door where offered Nebraska Public Transit directory (NDOT)
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Residents of nursing homes/assisted living Resolves care concerns; independent advocate Nebraska Long-Term Care Ombudsman
SHIP (free Medicare counseling) Medicare beneficiaries Unbiased help choosing coverage and saving money Nebraska SHIP (Department of Insurance)

Note: Links labeled “Nebraska DHHS” and “Department of Insurance” are official state sites; “Medicare,” “SSA,” “HUD,” and “USDA” are federal.


Health coverage and long-term care

1) Medicaid (Heritage Health) and Long-Term Services & Supports (LTSS)

What it is:

  • Nebraska’s Medicaid program (Heritage Health) provides health coverage for low-income Nebraskans. For seniors with disabilities, Medicaid can pay for long-term care in a nursing facility or at home through Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS).
  • Most Medicaid enrollees choose a managed care plan. As of recent years, options have included Healthy Blue, Nebraska Total Care, and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan. Confirm current plans on Nebraska DHHS Medicaid.

Who may qualify:

  • Age 65+ or disabled (per SSA rules), and meet income/asset limits.
  • For LTSS, you must also meet a “nursing facility level of care” based on help needed with daily activities and health needs.

Where to apply:

  • Online: ACCESSNebraska
  • By phone/mail/in person: See Nebraska DHHS Medicaid page and ACCESSNebraska contact options.

Reality checks and tips:

  • Functional eligibility is a separate step from financial eligibility. Even if income is low, you must show daily care needs.
  • Spousal impoverishment rules may protect some income/resources for the healthy spouse. Ask Medicaid about these protections (Nebraska DHHS Medicaid).
  • Estate recovery applies to many Medicaid services after death. Ask DHHS how it might affect your estate (Nebraska DHHS Medicaid Estate Recovery).

2) Nebraska Aged & Disabled (A&D) Waiver (HCBS)

What it does:

  • Helps seniors who qualify for nursing facility level of care stay at home or in community settings.
  • Services can include personal care, homemaker, respite, adult day health, home modifications, meal services, and assisted living supports when authorized.

How to start:

  • Contact Nebraska DHHS Medicaid to request an assessment for the A&D Waiver: Nebraska DHHS Medicaid (HCBS Waivers) and ACCESSNebraska.

Reality check:

  • HCBS waivers can have waitlists. Apply early and ask whether a waitlist exists in your area and how prioritization works (Nebraska DHHS Medicaid).

3) Personal Assistance Services (PAS)

What it does:

  • For Medicaid-eligible Nebraskans with disabilities, PAS can pay for help with bathing, dressing, toileting, meals, and mobility.
  • Some PAS options are self-directed, meaning you help hire and manage your caregiver.

Learn more and apply:

  • Nebraska DHHS Medicaid (PAS) via the main Medicaid site and ACCESSNebraska.

4) PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly)

What it is:

  • A Medicare-Medicaid program for people who need nursing home level of care but can live safely at home. One PACE team coordinates all medical and long-term services, medications, and transportation.

Availability:

  • PACE is offered in parts of Nebraska. Use Medicare’s PACE plan finder to check availability by ZIP code: Medicare PACE information.

Costs:

  • If you have both Medicare and Medicaid, PACE may have little or no premium; others may pay a premium. Confirm details with the local PACE plan (Medicare PACE information).

5) Medicare help: SHIP, Medicare Savings Programs, Extra Help

  • SHIP counseling: Nebraska’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers no-cost, unbiased help comparing Medicare plans, drug coverage, and savings programs. Visit Nebraska SHIP (Department of Insurance).
  • Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI): These help pay Part A/B premiums and sometimes cost-sharing for people with limited income. Apply through Nebraska DHHS: Nebraska DHHS Medicare Savings Programs.
  • Extra Help for Part D: Lowers drug premiums, deductibles, and copays for those with limited income/resources. Apply at SSA Extra Help.

6) Veterans’ health and long-term care

  • VA health: The VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System provides clinics, hospital care, home-based primary care, and some long-term care. Start at VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System.
  • State Veterans’ Homes: Nebraska operates veterans’ homes that provide skilled nursing and dementia care for eligible veterans and spouses. Learn more at Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs Veterans’ Homes.
  • Help applying: Contact your County Veterans Service Officer through Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Income, cash, and food

Social Security, SSDI, and SSI

  • Social Security retirement and SSDI (disability) are federal. Apply or manage benefits at Social Security Administration (SSA).
  • SSI helps people with very limited income/resources who are aged 65+ or disabled. Apply at Social Security Administration (SSI).
  • If you need help applying or appealing, ask Legal Aid of Nebraska or your Area Agency on Aging for guidance.

Reality check:

  • SSI and SSDI decisions can take time. Gather medical records and respond quickly to SSA requests. Consider appointing a trusted representative payee if managing money is hard (SSA Representative Payee).

SNAP (Food Stamps)

What it does:

  • Monthly food benefit added to an EBT card. Seniors with disabilities can use medical deductions to increase benefits.

How to apply:

  • Online: ACCESSNebraska
  • Learn more: Nebraska DHHS SNAP information

Tips:

  • Tell the caseworker about out-of-pocket medical expenses (prescriptions, copays, supplies, mileage to the doctor). This can increase your SNAP amount (USDA SNAP Elderly/Disabled rules).

Meals at home and at senior centers

  • Older Americans Act nutrition programs provide home-delivered “Meals on Wheels” and community dining. Priority goes to those with greatest need. Find your local provider via Eldercare Locator or your Area Agency on Aging.

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

  • CSFP provides a monthly package of healthy, shelf-stable foods to eligible seniors. In Nebraska, CSFP is supported through USDA and local partners. See USDA CSFP State Contacts and ask about Nebraska locations.

Housing and property tax relief

Nebraska Homestead Exemption (property tax relief)

What it is:

  • Reduces the amount of property tax you pay on your primary residence if you’re age 65+ or have a qualifying disability. There are also categories for veterans with 100% service-connected disability and certain surviving spouses.

Key points:

  • You apply through your County Assessor, typically by late spring/early summer each year (deadline set by state rules).
  • Income and home value limits apply, and they change over time.

Where to learn and apply:

  • Nebraska Department of Revenue Homestead Exemption (official program page with forms and county instructions)

Table: Homestead Exemption categories (overview)

Category Who it’s for Basic idea Where to apply
Age-based Homeowners 65+ Income and value limits; exemption reduces taxable value Your County Assessor; info at Nebraska Dept. of Revenue Homestead
Disability-based Individuals with qualifying disability Medical/SSA proof typically required; income limits apply County Assessor; Nebraska Dept. of Revenue Homestead
Veteran-based 100% service-connected disabled veterans and certain survivors Enhanced exemptions with documentation County Assessor; Nebraska Dept. of Revenue Homestead

Reality check:

  • The rules are technical and change. Call your County Assessor early and bring proof of age, disability, income, and home ownership. See Nebraska Department of Revenue Homestead Exemption.

Affordable rental housing and help

  • Public Housing and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) are run by local housing agencies. Find local options with the HUD Resource Locator.
  • USDA Rural Rental Housing: In smaller towns, USDA-subsidized apartments may be available. Search properties at USDA Multifamily Property Search.
  • If you face eviction or unsafe conditions, call Legal Aid of Nebraska.

Home repairs and accessibility

  • Weatherization Assistance: Free energy efficiency upgrades for eligible homeowners and renters. Start at Nebraska Weatherization Assistance (state energy/energy office).
  • USDA Section 504 Home Repair (for rural homeowners age 62+ with very low income): Grants and low-interest loans for critical repairs and accessibility. See USDA Rural Development Nebraska and Section 504 program.
  • Medicaid HCBS Waivers may fund minor home modifications when medically necessary—ask your DHHS caseworker.

Utilities and communications

LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program)

What it does:

  • Helps with heating/cooling bills, and may offer crisis help if you’re facing shutoff.

How to apply:

  • Online at ACCESSNebraska or via your local DHHS office. See Nebraska DHHS LIHEAP information for details.

Tips:

  • Apply before winter or during high heat. If you receive a shutoff notice, call DHHS and 211 right away.

Weatherization Assistance Program

  • Provides insulation, air sealing, and safety checks to cut energy costs. Work is done by local agencies at no cost to eligible households. Start at Nebraska Weatherization Assistance (state energy office).

Phone and internet help

  • Lifeline: Federal program that reduces the cost of phone or internet service for low-income households. Learn and apply at Lifeline Support (USAC).
  • Nebraska Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): Relay options for deaf, hard of hearing, or speech disabled callers. See Nebraska Public Service Commission TRS.
  • Nebraska specialized telecommunications equipment: The state supports equipment distribution for qualifying residents. See Nebraska Public Service Commission equipment programs.

Transportation

Table: Getting around in Nebraska

Option What it offers Where to find it Tips
Nebraska Public Transit (NDOT) Local bus, demand-response rides across rural and urban counties Nebraska Public Transit directory Call ahead for rural routes; ask about reduced fares for seniors/disabled riders
ADA Paratransit (city services) Door-to-door rides for riders who can’t use fixed-route buses Omaha: Metro MobilityLink; Lincoln: StarTran Handi-Van You must apply for ADA eligibility; bring your disability documentation
Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Rides to covered medical appointments for Medicaid members Nebraska DHHS Medicaid NEMT Schedule early; ask about mileage reimbursement if you drive yourself
Veterans’ transportation Free or low-cost rides to VA appointments (DAV vans, VA shuttles) VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System transportation Ask your County Veterans Service Officer about options

Reality check:

  • Rural rides may operate limited days/times. Book as early as possible and confirm the day before.

Caregivers and in-home help

  • Family caregiver support: The National Family Caregiver Support Program (through your Area Agency on Aging) offers respite, support groups, and training. Find your AAA via Eldercare Locator.
  • Nebraska Lifespan Respite Network: Helps families find and pay for short-term relief care (respite). Start through Nebraska DHHS Lifespan Respite.
  • Personal care at home: Medicaid PAS and the A&D Waiver can fund caregivers. If self-directing care, you may be able to choose and schedule your aide (Nebraska DHHS Medicaid).
  • Home health: If medically needed and ordered by a doctor, Medicare may cover short-term home health visits (Medicare Home Health).
  • Finding licensed providers: Search Nebraska DHHS health care facility/provider licensure directory for home health, assisted living, and nursing facilities (Nebraska DHHS Licensure Unit).

Assistive devices, low vision, hearing, and accessibility

  • Nebraska Assistive Technology Partnership (ATP): Device loans, reuse, and solutions for home, work, and daily living. Start at Nebraska ATP. Many items are posted at AT4All (regional reuse network).
  • Blindness/low vision: Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (NCBVI) provides training, independent living skills, and equipment—includes the Older Individuals Who Are Blind program. See NCBVI.
  • Deaf/Hard of Hearing: Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) provides advocacy, equipment information, and communication access resources. See NCDHH.
  • Home modifications: Some help can come from Medicaid HCBS waivers, VA benefits (for veterans), USDA 504 grants/loans, and Weatherization. Ask each program about medical necessity and limits.

Legal help and protection

  • Legal Aid of Nebraska: Free civil legal help for eligible Nebraskans, including housing, benefits, debt collection, and elder law. See Legal Aid of Nebraska.
  • Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Independent advocates for residents of nursing homes and assisted living; helps resolve care and rights issues. See Nebraska Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
  • Disability Rights Nebraska: The state’s Protection & Advocacy system for people with disabilities. See Disability Rights Nebraska.
  • Consumer protection and scams: Nebraska Attorney General Consumer Protection explains common scams and how to report them. See Nebraska Attorney General Consumer Protection.
  • Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult: Call 1-800-652-1999 (Nebraska DHHS APS). More info at Nebraska DHHS Adult Protective Services.

Reality check:

  • Keep copies of leases, care plans, and billing statements. If someone pressures you to sign paperwork you don’t understand, ask Legal Aid or the Ombudsman first.

Inclusive resources and special situations

LGBTQ+ seniors

  • SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline: 1-877-360-5428 offers support and referrals (SAGE).
  • Medicare and Medicaid providers cannot discriminate based on sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity) under federal civil rights rules. If you face discrimination, you can file a complaint with HHS Office for Civil Rights (HHS OCR – Section 1557).
  • Local community support: OutNebraska provides LGBTQ+ resources and events statewide (OutNebraska). Ask your AAA about inclusive senior programs near you.

Veteran seniors

  • Benefits navigation: Contact your County Veterans Service Officer through Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs for help with VA claims, pensions, Aid & Attendance, and state benefits.
  • Health care: VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System has clinics across the state.
  • Long-term care: Nebraska Veterans’ Homes provide skilled nursing and memory care for eligible veterans/spouses (Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs Veterans’ Homes).
  • Property tax relief: Disabled veterans and some survivors may qualify under Nebraska Homestead Exemption veteran categories at Nebraska Department of Revenue Homestead.

Tribal-specific resources

Nebraska’s tribes and tribal organizations often run elder, nutrition, and transportation programs:

  • Omaha Tribe of Nebraska
  • Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska
  • Santee Sioux Nation of Nebraska
  • Ponca Tribe of Nebraska

Where to start:

  • Title VI Native American Aging Programs directory (Administration for Community Living) lists tribal elder services and contacts.
  • Indian Health Service – Great Plains Area supports clinics and referrals (IHS Great Plains).
  • If you’re a tribal elder off-reservation, connect with your tribal elder program and the nearest AAA to coordinate services.

Rural seniors (limited access)

  • Rides: Use the Nebraska Public Transit directory to find demand-response rides; book early, especially for medical visits.
  • Telehealth: Medicare covers many telehealth services in certain situations. Ask your clinic and check Medicare Telehealth.
  • Mail-order pharmacy: Many Medicare Part D plans offer mail delivery, useful when winter travel is hard. Compare options with Nebraska SHIP.
  • Weatherization and LIHEAP: These programs can help keep homes safe and warm during extreme weather. Apply via ACCESSNebraska and the state Weatherization program.

Resources by region (find your local hub)

Nebraska services are organized regionally through Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and the ADRC network. Use the links below to find your local office by county.

Region/Agency What they do Website
Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging (Omaha area) Meals, in-home services, caregiver support, case management, ADRC access Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging
Aging Partners (Lincoln and surrounding counties) Senior centers, meals, in-home supports, benefits counseling Aging Partners
Blue Rivers Area Agency on Aging (Southeast) In-home services, transportation, caregiver support Blue Rivers Area Agency on Aging
Northeast Nebraska Area Agency on Aging (Norfolk area) Meals, case management, transportation, ADRC Northeast Nebraska AAA
Midland Area Agency on Aging (Central) Senior services across central counties Midland Area Agency on Aging
South Central Nebraska Area Agency on Aging Regional senior services and ADRC access South Central Nebraska AAA
West Central Nebraska Area Agency on Aging (North Platte area) In-home help, meals, transportation West Central Nebraska AAA
Aging Office of Western Nebraska (Panhandle) Services across the Panhandle counties Aging Office of Western Nebraska
ADRC Nebraska (statewide) One-stop “front door” to aging and disability services; links to local AAAs Nebraska ADRC
National backup locator Finds your AAA and other elder services Eldercare Locator

Note: Service areas change. If a link is not clear, call the Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116) and ask for your Nebraska AAA by county.


Step-by-step application playbooks

A) Medicaid long-term care (nursing home or HCBS)

  1. Gather documents: Photo ID, Social Security card, Medicare card, proof of income (Social Security/SSI award letters, pensions), bank statements, life insurance info, home ownership details, and a list of medical needs/medications.
  2. Apply: Online at ACCESSNebraska or call to request a paper form (see Nebraska DHHS Medicaid for contact options).
  3. Functional assessment: Tell DHHS you need long-term care. Keep all care-related doctor notes and hospital discharge paperwork handy.
  4. Plan selection: If approved, choose a Heritage Health plan (if required) and ask about in-home services, PAS, or assisted living under the A&D Waiver.
  5. Ask about protections: Spousal impoverishment rules and estate recovery. Get answers in writing.
  6. If denied: Read the notice carefully. You can appeal. Ask Legal Aid of Nebraska or your AAA for help filing an appeal on time.

B) SNAP (Food Stamps)

  1. Apply at ACCESSNebraska and check the box to allow phone interview if getting to an office is hard.
  2. Report medical expenses, including over-the-counter items prescribed by a doctor, and mileage to medical appointments.
  3. If approved, you’ll get an EBT card. Learn how to check your balance and use it at Nebraska DHHS SNAP information.
  4. If denied or low amount: Appeal or ask for a recalculation with updated medical expense proof.

C) LIHEAP (Energy Assistance)

  1. Apply at ACCESSNebraska, especially before winter or during heat waves.
  2. If you have a shutoff notice, call DHHS and 211 immediately and upload the notice with your application.
  3. Ask about weatherization referral if your bills are high because of an old furnace or poor insulation.

D) Homestead Exemption (Property Taxes)

  1. Call your County Assessor early each spring to confirm deadlines and required documents (proof of age/disability, income).
  2. Get forms and instructions at Nebraska Department of Revenue Homestead Exemption.
  3. Submit the application by the deadline. If denied, ask why and whether you can correct or appeal.

Reality checks, common hurdles, and smart tips

  • Waiver waitlists: Home- and community-based services may have waitlists. Apply early, and ask about priority rules and interim supports like PAS.
  • Documentation matters: Many denials happen due to missing proofs. Keep a folder with copies of ID, income, assets, medical bills, and letters.
  • Scams increase during enrollment seasons: Don’t share your Medicare/SSN unless you initiated the call. Report scams to the Nebraska Attorney General Consumer Protection.
  • Costs of care: Nursing facility care is expensive. Before spending down assets, ask Medicaid about spousal protections and talk with Legal Aid of Nebraska about planning options.
  • Renewals: SNAP, Medicaid, and LIHEAP require periodic renewals. Mark deadlines on your calendar and return forms early.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What’s the fastest way to find in-home help I can afford in Nebraska?
A: Call your Area Agency on Aging through the Eldercare Locator and ask about Medicaid A&D Waiver, PAS, Older Americans Act in-home supports, and any local grants. If you might qualify for Medicaid, apply via ACCESSNebraska and request an assessment for home-based services.

Q: I’m on Medicare only. Can I still get help paying for home care?
A: Medicare pays for short-term home health when medically necessary, but not ongoing personal care. Ask SHIP about Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help to lower health costs, and ask your AAA about sliding-scale in-home supports or local grants. If your income is low and you need daily help, apply for Medicaid long-term care via ACCESSNebraska.

Q: How do I get door-to-door rides to the doctor?
A: If you’re on Medicaid, ask about Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) through Nebraska DHHS Medicaid. In cities, apply for ADA paratransit (Omaha Metro MobilityLink or Lincoln StarTran Handi-Van). In rural areas, use the Nebraska Public Transit directory and book rides early.

Q: Do I have to sell my house to get Medicaid long-term care?
A: Not necessarily. Your home is usually exempt while you or your spouse live in it, but Medicaid may seek estate recovery later. Ask DHHS about current rules and talk to Legal Aid of Nebraska if you have questions about your situation.

Q: Is there property tax relief for disabled veterans in Nebraska?
A: Yes. Nebraska’s Homestead Exemption has veteran categories for 100% service-connected disabled veterans and certain survivors. Apply through your County Assessor. See Nebraska Department of Revenue Homestead Exemption for details.

Q: I need a wheelchair ramp. Who can help pay for it?
A: Ask your Medicaid caseworker if a ramp can be funded under the A&D Waiver. If you’re a veteran, ask VA about home modification benefits. Also check Nebraska ATP for device resources and USDA Section 504 grants/loans for rural homeowners age 62+.

Q: Where do I report possible abuse or financial exploitation?
A: If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 911. Otherwise, call Nebraska DHHS Adult Protective Services at 1-800-652-1999 any time.

Q: Are there special food programs for seniors?
A: Yes. Home-delivered and congregate meals are available through your AAA. You may also qualify for SNAP and, in some areas, CSFP “senior food boxes.” Start with Eldercare Locator and ACCESSNebraska.

Q: How do I get free help comparing Medicare plans in Nebraska?
A: Contact Nebraska SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) through the Department of Insurance. They provide unbiased counseling at no cost.

Q: I live on a farm in a rural county. What if there’s no bus service?
A: Check the Nebraska Public Transit directory for demand-response rides. Also ask your AAA about volunteer driver programs. For medical visits, ask your clinic about telehealth and your plan about mileage reimbursement.


Sources and official links

Healthcare and long-term care

Food and income

Housing and utilities

Transportation

Assistive technology, vision/hearing

Legal and protection

Inclusive resources

General help and navigation

Statistics and reference

  • U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey table S1810 (Disability Characteristics) can provide state-level figures for Nebraska’s older adults with disabilities: https://data.census.gov (search “S1810 Nebraska”)

Note on statistics: Because program numbers and state statistics change, follow the links to see the most current official figures.


Disclaimer

Programs, eligibility rules, dollar amounts, and contact details change over time. This guide is for general information and is not legal or financial advice. Always confirm details with the official agency or a qualified advisor. If you find an outdated link or information, please contact the relevant agency directly and consider notifying GrantsForSeniors.org.


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.

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.