Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Nevada (Authority Hub)

Last updated: September 10, 2025

Quick help (keep this handy)

• Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.
• Call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7).
• Dial 211 or visit Nevada 211 for statewide referrals to food, shelter, utilities, and more: https://www.nevada211.org
• Report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an older adult or adult with a disability via Nevada Aging & Disability Services Division (ADSD): https://adsd.nv.gov (look for “Report Abuse”) or dial 211 for guidance.
• Find and apply for Nevada benefits (Medicaid, SNAP, cash aid, and more): Apply at Access Nevada: https://accessnevada.dwss.nv.gov

What you’ll find in this guide

This guide brings together the main benefits and programs for disabled seniors in Nevada, with direct links to official sources and practical steps. It covers emergency help, cash and income programs, health care and long-term care, food, housing and utilities, transportation, legal help, and special resources for LGBTQ+ seniors, veterans, tribal communities, and rural Nevadans. You’ll also find regional contacts, FAQs, and a resources list.

Reality check:

• Programs can be confusing and slow. Documentation is often required, and you might need to follow up.
• Many programs have waitlists, especially housing and in‑home care waivers.
• If you’re stuck, call 211 or a Nevada Care Connection Resource Center for free one‑on‑one guidance: https://nevadacareconnection.org

Table A. Emergency and urgent help (Nevada)

Tip: If you can’t use a computer, a local library, senior center, or a Nevada Care Connection site can help you submit applications: https://nevadacareconnection.org

Who counts as a “disabled senior” for benefits?

• Medicare usually starts at 65, or earlier if you’ve received SSDI for at least 24 months. Learn more: https://www.medicare.gov
• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes and now can’t work due to a disability. Learn more: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based cash benefit for people with limited income and resources who are 65+ or disabled. Learn more: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi

In Nevada, many state services for aging and disability are organized under the Aging & Disability Services Division (ADSD): https://adsd.nv.gov

Money and monthly income programs

Social Security (SSDI/Retirement) and SSI

• Apply, appeal decisions, and manage benefits through Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov
• If you’re low-income and on Medicare, you may qualify for Extra Help with drug costs and for a Medicare Savings Program that pays Part B premiums (see “Health Care” below).

Veterans benefits

• Disabled veterans may qualify for VA disability compensation, VA pension with Aid & Attendance, and health care. Start with the VA or the Nevada Department of Veterans Services (NDVS) for claims help:
  • VA: https://www.va.gov
  • NDVS (find a Veterans Service Officer): https://veterans.nv.gov

Nevada state supplements and cash aid

• Nevada cash benefits are accessed through the Division of Welfare & Supportive Services (DWSS) portal. Programs change, but the Access Nevada site guides you to what you may qualify for: https://accessnevada.dwss.nv.gov
• If you need help understanding options, contact Nevada Care Connection: https://nevadacareconnection.org

Property tax relief for disabled veterans and others

• Nevada offers property tax exemptions for veterans, disabled veterans, and surviving spouses. These are administered locally by county assessors. Start at the Nevada Department of Taxation and then your county assessor:
  • Nevada Department of Taxation: https://tax.nv.gov
  • Find your county assessor (search “County Assessor” plus your county’s name on your county website).

Table B. Income and cash supports summary

Reality check: Many cash programs verify your identity, income, and resources. Gather photo ID, Social Security card, bank statements, benefit letters, rent/mortgage info, and utility bills before you apply.

Health care, Medicare, and Medicaid in Nevada

Medicare basics and free counseling (SHIP)

• If you have Medicare, you can get free, unbiased counseling on plans, drug coverage, and savings programs from Nevada’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
  • Nevada SHIP (via ADSD): https://adsd.nv.gov
  • National SHIP directory (choose Nevada): https://www.shiphelp.org

Medicaid in Nevada (including in‑home care and long‑term care)

• Nevada Medicaid is administered by the Division of Health Care Financing and Policy (DHCFP): https://dhcfp.nv.gov
• Apply or renew through Access Nevada: https://accessnevada.dwss.nv.gov
• Long‑Term Services and Supports (LTSS) include:
  • Home and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) waivers (for example, options for frail elders and for persons with physical disabilities) that can fund in‑home care, adult day health, respite, and more.
  • Personal care services for help with bathing, dressing, meals, and light housekeeping.
  • Skilled nursing facility coverage if you meet medical and financial criteria.
  • Nevada Community Transitions (Money Follows the Person) helps eligible people leave institutions and move back to the community. Learn more about LTSS at DHCFP: https://dhcfp.nv.gov

Tip: Waiver programs often have waitlists. Apply early and keep contact info updated.

Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) and Extra Help (LIS)

• MSPs (QMB, SLMB, QI) can pay your Medicare Part B premium and may reduce other costs if your income and assets are within limits. Apply through Access Nevada: https://accessnevada.dwss.nv.gov
• Extra Help (Low‑Income Subsidy) reduces Part D drug costs. Apply through Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp

Nevada Senior Rx and Disability Rx

• Nevada’s Senior Rx and Disability Rx programs help eligible seniors and adults with disabilities with prescription costs. Details and applications are available through Nevada DHHS/ADSD/DWSS program pages. Start here:
  • DWSS portal (screen for programs): https://accessnevada.dwss.nv.gov
  • ADSD (program listings): https://adsd.nv.gov

Assistive technology and medical equipment

• Nevada Assistive Technology Collaborative (device loans, demos, reuse): https://nevadaat4all.org
• CARE Chest of Sierra Nevada offers free medical equipment loans and related supports in many counties: https://www.carechest.org
• Medicare coverage info for durable medical equipment: https://www.medicare.gov/coverage

Table C. Health and long‑term care programs in Nevada

Food and nutrition

• SNAP (food stamps): Apply or renew through Access Nevada: https://accessnevada.dwss.nv.gov. Program info: https://dwss.nv.gov
• Congregate and home‑delivered meals (Meals on Wheels): Funded in part by ADSD through local providers. Find services near you via Nevada Care Connection: https://nevadacareconnection.org
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) for older adults: Administered in Nevada through regional food banks. Learn more and find local distribution:
  • Food Bank of Northern Nevada (CSFP): https://fbnn.org
  • Three Square (Southern Nevada): https://www.threesquare.org
• Farmers’ markets and senior produce boxes vary by county and season—call 211 to locate current programs: https://www.nevada211.org

Reality check: Food programs often require a brief application and ID. If you can’t travel, ask about home delivery or an authorized representative.

Housing, home repair, and utilities

Affordable housing and vouchers

• Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority (Clark County): https://www.snvrha.org
• Reno Housing Authority (Washoe County): https://www.renoha.org
• Nevada Rural Housing Authority (rural counties): https://www.nvrural.org
• Nevada Housing Division (statewide info and affordable rental search): https://housing.nv.gov

Note: Waitlists open and close. If the list is closed, check back and sign up for alerts.

Keep the lights on and stay warm/cool

• Energy Assistance Program (EAP/LIHEAP) helps with power bills: Apply at https://accessnevada.dwss.nv.gov and see program info at https://dwss.nv.gov
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) improves home energy efficiency to lower bills. Start at Nevada Housing Division: https://housing.nv.gov
• NV Energy bill help programs (payment plans and assistance referrals): https://www.nvenergy.com/assistance

Home repairs and modifications

• USDA Section 504 Home Repair (loans/grants for very‑low‑income rural homeowners age 62+): https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
• Medicaid HCBS waivers may fund accessibility modifications if medically necessary (see Medicaid section).
• Assistive tech and equipment reuse: https://nevadaat4all.org; CARE Chest home safety items: https://www.carechest.org

Table D. Housing and utilities programs

Transportation and mobility

• Paratransit (door‑to‑door) for riders who can’t use fixed‑route buses due to disability:
  • RTC of Southern Nevada (Las Vegas area): https://www.rtcsnv.com
  • RTC Washoe (Reno/Sparks area): https://www.rtcwashoe.com
• Rural transit: Many counties have dial‑a‑ride or deviated route services funded in part by NDOT. Learn more and find links at the Nevada Department of Transportation (Transit): https://www.dot.nv.gov
• Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): Nevada Medicaid covers NEMT for eligible members traveling to covered appointments. Start with Nevada Medicaid: https://dhcfp.nv.gov
• Disabled parking placards/plates: Nevada DMV provides disabled placards and plates. Forms and instructions are at: https://dmv.nv.gov

Mobility tip: If you need a wheelchair or scooter, ask your doctor about a face‑to‑face mobility exam and a detailed prescription. Check coverage through Medicare or Medicaid, and look into reuse options at https://nevadaat4all.org and https://www.carechest.org.

Legal help, protection, and advocacy

• Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of older or disabled adults: ADSD Elder Protective Services: https://adsd.nv.gov (follow “Report Abuse”). If danger is immediate, call 911.
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman (complaints about nursing homes or assisted living): Find info via ADSD: https://adsd.nv.gov
• Free or low‑cost legal help:
  • Nevada Legal Services (statewide): https://www.nlslaw.net
  • Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada (Clark County): https://www.lacsn.org
  • Southern Nevada Senior Law Program: https://snslp.org
  • Washoe Legal Services: https://washoelegalservices.org

Scam warning: Government agencies will not ask you to pay fees by gift card or wire transfer. If in doubt, hang up and call the agency back using the number on its official website.

Work, rehabilitation, and community life

• Nevada Vocational Rehabilitation (under DETR) helps adults with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep jobs; may support assistive technology, training, and job placement: https://detr.nv.gov
• Nevada State Parks offers discounted passes for seniors and some disabled veterans. Check eligibility and fees: https://parks.nv.gov

Inclusive supports

LGBTQ+ seniors

• The LGBTQ+ Community Center of Southern Nevada (Las Vegas) offers senior programming, support groups, and referrals: https://thecenterlv.org
• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: https://www.sageusa.org (scroll to “Talk & Support”)

Tip: If you’ve faced discrimination in housing, health care, or services, contact Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada (https://www.lacsn.org) or Nevada Legal Services (https://www.nlslaw.net).

Veteran seniors

• Nevada Department of Veterans Services (NDVS) connects you to claims help, state veterans homes, and benefits: https://veterans.nv.gov
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (health care, disability, pensions): https://www.va.gov
• Nevada State Veterans Homes (skilled nursing) are in Boulder City and Sparks—see NDVS for admissions.

Tribal-specific resources

• Nevada Indian Commission (state liaison): https://nevadaindiancommission.org
• Indian Health Service (Phoenix Area—covers much of Nevada): https://www.ihs.gov/phoenix
• Title VI Older Americans Act tribal elder programs provide meals, transportation, and caregiver support; find Title VI programs via the ACL Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov

Note: Eligibility for tribal programs varies by tribe. Contact your tribal office or health clinic for details.

Rural seniors and families

• Nevada State Office of Rural Health (UNR Med) compiles rural health resources and telehealth options: https://med.unr.edu/statewide/office-of-rural-health
• Nevada Rural Housing Authority (NRHA) serves rural counties with vouchers and homeowner programs: https://www.nvrural.org
• If internet is limited, call 211 to get referrals by phone: https://www.nevada211.org

Resources by region

Clark County (Las Vegas area)

• Clark County Social Service (general relief, housing resources): https://www.clarkcountynv.gov/government/departments/social_service
• Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority: https://www.snvrha.org
• RTC of Southern Nevada (paratransit and transit): https://www.rtcsnv.com
• Three Square (food assistance locator): https://www.threesquare.org
• Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada: https://www.lacsn.org
• The LGBTQ+ Center of Southern Nevada: https://thecenterlv.org
• Nevada Care Connection (find local help): https://nevadacareconnection.org

Washoe County (Reno/Sparks)

• Washoe County Human Services Agency (older adult services): https://www.washoecounty.gov/hsa
• Reno Housing Authority: https://www.renoha.org
• RTC Washoe (paratransit and transit): https://www.rtcwashoe.com
• Food Bank of Northern Nevada: https://fbnn.org
• CARE Chest (medical equipment loans, supplies): https://www.carechest.org
• Washoe Legal Services: https://washoelegalservices.org
• Nevada Care Connection (find local help): https://nevadacareconnection.org

Rural and frontier counties

• Nevada Rural Housing Authority: https://www.nvrural.org
• NDOT Transit (find rural transit providers): https://www.dot.nv.gov
• USDA Rural Development home repair loans/grants (Section 504): https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
• Nevada Care Connection (find rural resource centers): https://nevadacareconnection.org

How to apply (Nevada step‑by‑step)

1. Make a list of what you need

• Health coverage: Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs
• Food: SNAP, home-delivered meals
• Housing/utilities: public housing or vouchers, energy assistance, weatherization
• In‑home help: Medicaid HCBS, state aging services
• Medications: Senior Rx/Disability Rx, Extra Help

2. Gather your documents

• Photo ID, Social Security number, proof of Nevada address
• Proof of income (award letters, pay stubs, bank statements)
• Rent/lease or mortgage, utility bills, medical bills
• Medicare card and any other insurance cards
• VA documents (if any), disability letters, doctor notes (for some programs)

3. Apply online or by phone

• Access Nevada (Medicaid, SNAP, energy assistance): https://accessnevada.dwss.nv.gov
• Social Security (SSI/SSDI, Extra Help): https://www.ssa.gov
• VA benefits: https://www.va.gov
• If you need hands‑on help, call 211 or contact a Nevada Care Connection site: https://nevadacareconnection.org

4. Track your applications

• Create an Access Nevada account to check status and upload documents.
• Keep copies of everything you submit. Write down dates and confirmation numbers.

5. If denied, appeal

• Most programs allow appeals. The denial letter will explain how.
• For help with appeals, contact Nevada Legal Services: https://www.nlslaw.net or your local legal aid listed above.

Transportation, ID, and independence checklist

• DMV disabled placard/plates: Download the form and have your provider sign it—see Nevada DMV: https://dmv.nv.gov
• Paratransit eligibility interview and functional assessment:
  • Las Vegas/Clark: https://www.rtcsnv.com
  • Reno/Washoe: https://www.rtcwashoe.com
• Medicaid NEMT rides: Contact Nevada Medicaid or your health plan for booking rules: https://dhcfp.nv.gov
• Assistive devices and home modifications: Start with a doctor’s order and check https://nevadaat4all.org and https://www.carechest.org

Table E. At‑a‑glance: Who does what in Nevada?

Frequently Asked Questions (Nevada)

Q1) How do I get in‑home help if I want to avoid a nursing home?

• Nevada Medicaid offers HCBS waivers and personal care services if you meet medical and financial rules. Apply via Access Nevada: https://accessnevada.dwss.nv.gov and review LTSS info at DHCFP: https://dhcfp.nv.gov. If you don’t qualify for Medicaid, ask ADSD about state‑funded in‑home supports and caregiver programs: https://adsd.nv.gov.

Q2) I’m on Medicare and my budget is tight. Can Nevada help pay my Part B premium?

• Yes, through a Medicare Savings Program (MSP) if your income and resources are within limits. Apply at Access Nevada: https://accessnevada.dwss.nv.gov. For guidance, call Nevada SHIP (find Nevada via https://www.shiphelp.org).

Q3) Does Nevada have a program to help with prescription drug costs?

• Yes. Nevada’s Senior Rx and Disability Rx programs assist eligible residents with prescription costs. Start at Access Nevada: https://accessnevada.dwss.nv.gov and check ADSD program listings: https://adsd.nv.gov. You can also apply for Extra Help (LIS) through Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp.

Q4) What if I can’t pay my power bill during the summer?

• Apply for Energy Assistance Program (EAP/LIHEAP) at https://accessnevada.dwss.nv.gov. Ask your utility about payment plans or special protections—NV Energy assistance info: https://www.nvenergy.com/assistance.

Q5) Where do I report suspected elder abuse in Nevada?

• Use ADSD Elder Protective Services via https://adsd.nv.gov (click “Report Abuse”). If danger is immediate, call 911. If you’re unsure, dial 211 for help: https://www.nevada211.org.

Q6) How can I find a wheelchair or home medical equipment I can afford?

• Check Nevada’s assistive technology exchange and loan programs: https://nevadaat4all.org. CARE Chest provides free equipment loans in many areas: https://www.carechest.org. Medicare/Medicaid may cover equipment if ordered by your provider: https://www.medicare.gov/coverage.

Q7) I’m a disabled veteran. What property tax breaks are available?

• Nevada offers property tax exemptions for veterans, disabled veterans, and surviving spouses, managed by county assessors. Start at Nevada Department of Taxation: https://tax.nv.gov and then contact your county assessor’s office.

Q8) Can I get help moving out of a nursing home back to my own place?

• Nevada Community Transitions (Money Follows the Person) may help with services and setup costs if you’re eligible. Learn about LTSS at DHCFP: https://dhcfp.nv.gov and ask your facility social worker to refer you.

Q9) Is there legal help for seniors facing eviction or debt collection?

• Yes. Contact Nevada Legal Services (https://www.nlslaw.net), Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada (https://www.lacsn.org), Southern Nevada Senior Law Program (https://snslp.org), or Washoe Legal Services (https://washoelegalservices.org).

Q10) How do I get paratransit in Las Vegas or Reno?

• Apply through your local RTC:
  • Southern Nevada: https://www.rtcsnv.com
  • Washoe County: https://www.rtcwashoe.com
    You’ll likely need an eligibility interview or medical verification.

Q11) I live in a rural county with few services. Where do I start?

• Call 211 for referrals: https://www.nevada211.org, contact Nevada Care Connection: https://nevadacareconnection.org, and check rural programs via the State Office of Rural Health: https://med.unr.edu/statewide/office-of-rural-health. For housing, see NRHA: https://www.nvrural.org.

Q12) Where can I get unbiased help choosing a Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan?

• Nevada SHIP provides free counseling. Find Nevada via the national SHIP site: https://www.shiphelp.org.

Q13) How do I get disabled parking placards or plates in Nevada?

• Visit the Nevada DMV for forms and instructions: https://dmv.nv.gov. Your health care provider must certify your disability.

Q14) What if I don’t have a computer or smartphone to apply online?

• Call 211 to find local in‑person help, ask a library or senior center for computer access, or visit a Nevada Care Connection Resource Center: https://nevadacareconnection.org.

Q15) Does Nevada tax my Social Security benefits?

• Nevada does not have a state income tax. For tax questions and property tax programs, see Nevada Department of Taxation: https://tax.nv.gov.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

• Incomplete applications: Missing proof of income or ID is a top reason for delays. Use the “documents checklist” above.
• Missed mail: Turn on online notices when possible and keep your address updated with DWSS/Medicaid, SSA, and your health plan.
• Waitlists: Join as soon as lists open; ask about temporary or alternative services.
• Renewals: Mark your calendar for Medicaid, SNAP, and housing recertifications 30–60 days ahead.

Sources (official and well‑established)

• Nevada Aging & Disability Services Division (ADSD): https://adsd.nv.gov
• Nevada Department of Health Care Financing & Policy (Medicaid): https://dhcfp.nv.gov
• Nevada Division of Welfare & Supportive Services (Access Nevada): https://accessnevada.dwss.nv.gov and https://dwss.nv.gov
• Nevada 211 (statewide referrals): https://www.nevada211.org
• Social Security Administration (SSI/SSDI/Extra Help): https://www.ssa.gov
• Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov
• State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): https://www.shiphelp.org
• Nevada Housing Division: https://housing.nv.gov
• Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority: https://www.snvrha.org
• Reno Housing Authority: https://www.renoha.org
• Nevada Rural Housing Authority: https://www.nvrural.org
• USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504): https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
• NV Energy assistance: https://www.nvenergy.com/assistance
• Nevada Department of Transportation: https://www.dot.nv.gov
• Nevada DMV: https://dmv.nv.gov
• Nevada Department of Veterans Services: https://veterans.nv.gov
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: https://www.va.gov
• Nevada Assistive Technology (AT4All): https://nevadaat4all.org
• CARE Chest: https://www.carechest.org
• Food Bank of Northern Nevada: https://fbnn.org
• Three Square: https://www.threesquare.org
• Nevada Indian Commission: https://nevadaindiancommission.org
• ACL Eldercare Locator (Title VI directory): https://eldercare.acl.gov
• UNR Med State Office of Rural Health: https://med.unr.edu/statewide/office-of-rural-health
• Legal aid: Nevada Legal Services (https://www.nlslaw.net), Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada (https://www.lacsn.org), Southern Nevada Senior Law Program (https://snslp.org), Washoe Legal Services (https://washoelegalservices.org)
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org

Note on statistics: Program dollar limits and counts change regularly. Always check the linked official sites for current figures and eligibility.

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.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only. It is not legal, medical, or financial advice. Program rules, amounts, and eligibility change. Always verify details with the agency or program using the official links provided. If you have an emergency, call 911.