Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Mississippi (2025 Authority Guide)

Last updated: August 2025

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Quick Help (for emergencies and urgent problems)

• Call 911 for any life‑threatening emergency.
• Mental health crisis: Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or visit the 988 Lifeline site: Get help at 988lifeline.org.
• Abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult: Report it. Start with Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) Adult Protective Services: Visit MDHS (Adult Protective Services) and look for “Adult Protective Services” to file a report online or find the current hotline.
• Disaster help (hurricanes, tornadoes, floods): Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA): Find updates at msema.org. You can also apply for federal disaster help through FEMA: Apply at disasterassistance.gov.
• Medicaid and long‑term care questions: Mississippi Division of Medicaid (DOM): Start at medicaid.ms.gov.
• Find local aging and disability help (Area Agency on Aging, ADRC/Mississippi Access to Care): Use the federal Eldercare Locator to get the right local number: Find help at eldercare.acl.gov.

Tip: If you’re not sure which office to call first, call 2‑1‑1 to reach Mississippi 211 for local referrals, or use the national database: Search at 211.org.

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How to use this guide

• Start with the table of contents and the Quick Help box above.
• Each section explains what the program is, who it helps, and how to apply.
• We include links only to official government or well‑established sources.
• Look for “Reality checks” and “Tips” for practical advice.
• See “Resources by Region” and the FAQs for Mississippi‑specific help.

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Contents

• Emergency help (first)
• Personal help to navigate benefits
• Health coverage and long‑term care
• Income, disability benefits, and work incentives
• Food and nutrition programs
• Housing, utilities, and home repairs
• Transportation and mobility
• Assistive technology and independent living
• Legal and protection services
• Financial relief and tax help
• Inclusive supports: LGBTQ+ seniors, veterans, tribal members, rural seniors
• Resources by region in Mississippi
• FAQs (Mississippi‑specific)
• Resources directory (by topic)
• Disclaimer
• About this guide

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Key Mississippi contacts at a glance

Note: Some pages are top‑level links. Use the site search on each official site to find current applications and phone numbers.

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Personal help to navigate benefits

• Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs): These local offices connect you to meals, rides, caregiver help, and in‑home services funded by the Older Americans Act. Find your AAA via the Eldercare Locator: Find local AAA at eldercare.acl.gov. Programs and eligibility vary by county.
• Mississippi’s Aging & Disability Resource Connection (often called “Mississippi Access to Care/MAC”): One‑stop help for long‑term care options and applications for Medicaid waivers. If you can’t find the MAC number, call your AAA or use the Eldercare Locator above.
• Medicare counseling (SHIP): Get unbiased help choosing plans, understanding Extra Help (Part D), and appeal rights: Find SHIP counselors (shiphelp.org).
• Benefits screening: Use NCOA’s free tool to check eligibility for multiple benefits: Screen benefits at BenefitsCheckUp.org (National Council on Aging).

Reality check: Expect paperwork. Keep a folder with Social Security cards, Medicare/Medicaid numbers, proof of Mississippi residency, proof of income and assets (bank statements), and medical records. Having these ready speeds up applications.

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Health coverage and long‑term care

Mississippi Medicaid (including waivers for home care)

Medicaid can cover medical care and long‑term services at home or in a nursing facility. Long‑term care in Mississippi is administered by the Mississippi Division of Medicaid (DOM). Learn more: Mississippi Division of Medicaid.

Common pathways for disabled seniors include:

• Institutional/Nursing Facility Medicaid
• Home‑ and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, such as:
  • Elderly & Disabled (E&D) Waiver: In‑home services like personal care, adult day services, and respite to help you remain at home instead of a nursing home. See DOM’s long‑term care/waivers pages: Mississippi Medicaid – Long‑Term Care Programs.
  • Assisted Living Waiver: Helps pay for services in participating assisted living facilities for eligible individuals who meet nursing facility level of care: Mississippi Medicaid – Long‑Term Care Programs.
  • Other waivers exist for specific disabilities (for example, intellectual/developmental disability, traumatic brain/spinal cord injury) administered with partner agencies: Mississippi Medicaid – Long‑Term Care Programs.

How to apply

• Start with DOM’s long‑term care section for current forms and instructions: Mississippi Medicaid – Long‑Term Care.
• If you need help deciding which waiver fits, contact your local AAA or MAC/ADRC via the Eldercare Locator: Find local help.

Reality check: Waivers often have waitlists and require you to meet medical “level of care” rules. A nurse assessment is common. Get your doctor to provide recent records that show your daily living needs.

Medicare and Extra Help

• Medicare basics and plan finder: Medicare.gov.
• Extra Help (Low‑Income Subsidy) lowers Part D prescription costs: Apply for Extra Help at SSA.gov.
• Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI) help pay Medicare premiums and sometimes cost‑sharing. In Mississippi these are administered by DOM: Medicaid – Medicare Savings Programs. Get free help applying from SHIP: Find SHIP counselors.

Tip: If you use expensive brand‑name drugs, ask SHIP about plan options and manufacturer assistance. Combine Extra Help with the right Part D plan to reduce out‑of‑pocket costs.

Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

Medicaid beneficiaries who qualify can get rides to covered medical appointments through the state’s NEMT program. Details and scheduling info change, so start here: Mississippi Division of Medicaid – Transportation.

Long‑Term Care Ombudsman and complaints

If you have a problem with a nursing home or assisted living facility, contact the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program (housed within aging services) for free, confidential help. Start with MDHS Aging & Adult Services: MDHS – Aging & Adult Services. To report serious health and safety concerns, you can also file a complaint with the Mississippi State Department of Health: MSDH – File a Facility Complaint.

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Income, disability benefits, and work incentives

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Apply, manage benefits, and appeal decisions at SSA: Social Security (SSDI/SSI).
• Extra Help (Part D) and Medicare Savings Programs are based on income and resources; see above for links.
• Able to work some hours? The SSA Ticket to Work program and work incentives can let you try work while protecting benefits in some cases: SSA – Work Incentives.
• ABLE accounts (for disabilities with onset before age 26; Congress extended to age 46 for new accounts beginning 2026): Learn how ABLE accounts can shelter savings without affecting SSI/Medicaid in many cases: ABLE National Resource Center.

Reality check: If you receive SSI or Medicaid, always check with SSA/Medicaid before opening new accounts or receiving gifts. Even small changes can affect eligibility if not handled correctly.

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Food and nutrition programs

SNAP (food stamps) in Mississippi

SNAP helps low‑income households buy food. Mississippi’s SNAP is administered by MDHS. Apply online or learn more here: MDHS – SNAP.

• You can use SNAP at participating grocery stores and some farmers markets.
• If you have a disability or trouble traveling, ask your local office about authorized representatives who can shop for you.

Official references:

• Program overview and eligibility rules: USDA Food and Nutrition Service – SNAP.

Meals at home and in the community

• Home‑delivered meals and congregate (group) meals are offered through local AAAs with Older Americans Act funds. Contact your AAA via the Eldercare Locator: Find local meals programs.

Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)

Eligible seniors may receive coupons for fresh produce from authorized farmers. Mississippi participates through the state agriculture department and local partners. For national rules: USDA – SFMNP. Check local availability through your AAA or county extension office.

Food banks

• Mississippi Food Network and regional food banks partner with local pantries. Find food assistance near you: Feeding America – Find Your Local Food Bank and then choose Mississippi.

Reality check: SNAP amounts depend on your household size, income, and certain housing/medical costs. If your situation changes (rent increases, medical bills), report it. It may increase your monthly benefit.

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Housing, utilities, and home repairs

Property tax relief for age 65+ and disabled homeowners

Mississippi provides a Special Homestead Exemption for homeowners who are 65+ or totally disabled. It exempts up to $7,500ofassessedvalue(whichequals$75,000 of true value, since homes are assessed at 10%) from property taxes. Reference: Mississippi Department of Revenue – Homestead Exemption.

• Apply at your county tax assessor’s office.
• Bring proof of age or disability and deed info.
• Deadlines and paperwork vary by county.

Tip: If you turn 65 or become disabled mid‑year, ask your county if you can apply for the following tax year.

Affordable housing and rental help

• Public Housing and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) are administered by local housing authorities. Start with HUD’s Mississippi page to find housing authorities and senior housing: HUD – Mississippi.
• Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly provides subsidized apartments with services for low‑income seniors. Search for properties on HUD’s site above.

Reality check: Waitlists are common. Keep your contact info updated with the housing authority so you don’t lose your spot.

Utility bills and home energy

• LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program): Helps with electric/gas bills and crisis energy needs. Administered by MDHS through local agencies: MDHS – Community Services (LIHEAP).
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Improves home energy efficiency (insulation, air sealing, minor repairs). Learn about the federal program: U.S. DOE – Weatherization Assistance Program, and ask MDHS Community Services or your local community action agency about Mississippi applications.

Note: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended due to lack of funding in 2024. For discounted phone/Internet, check the federal Lifeline program: USAC – Lifeline Support.

Home repair and accessibility modifications

• USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Grants and Loans): Very low‑income homeowners age 62+ may qualify for grants to fix health/safety hazards; loans are also available. Mississippi Rural Development office: USDA Rural Development – Mississippi. Program details: USDA – Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants.
• Medicaid Waivers may fund minor home modifications if medically necessary. See DOM’s waiver pages: Mississippi Medicaid – Long‑Term Care Programs.

Tip: Keep contractor estimates and photos. For federal programs, work generally cannot start before approval.

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Transportation and mobility

• Public transit and paratransit: Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) supports rural and small city transit providers. Find providers and learn about reduced fare and ADA paratransit options in your area: MDOT – Public Transit.
• Medicaid NEMT: If you have Medicaid and need a ride to a covered medical appointment, use the state’s NEMT process: Mississippi Medicaid – Transportation.
• Disabled parking placards/plates: Mississippi Department of Revenue handles parking placards/plates for persons with disabilities. Learn how to apply: Mississippi DOR – Motor Vehicle.

Reality check: In rural counties, transit may be “demand‑response” (you must call ahead, often 24–48 hours). Plan early and confirm pickup times the day before.

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Assistive technology and independent living

• Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS): Offers independent living services and assistive technology support for people with disabilities, including training and equipment in some cases. Start here: MDRS – Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services.
• Durable medical equipment: Medicare may cover certain items prescribed by your doctor. Check coverage: Medicare – What Part B covers (DME).
• Telecommunications/phone discounts: Lifeline can reduce monthly phone or internet bills: USAC – Lifeline Support.

Tip: Ask your AAA or MDRS about device loan closets or short‑term equipment loans before you buy.

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Legal and protection services

• Adult Protective Services (APS): Report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult to MDHS: MDHS – Adult Protective Services.
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Help with nursing home and assisted living complaints: MDHS – Aging & Adult Services.
• Health facility complaints: File with the Mississippi State Department of Health: MSDH – File a Facility Complaint.
• Civil legal aid:
  • Mississippi Center for Legal Services (central and south MS): mslegalservices.org
  • North Mississippi Rural Legal Services (north MS): nmrls.com
• Disability Rights Mississippi (Protection & Advocacy agency): Helps with disability‑related rights, abuse/neglect, facility issues, and access barriers: disabilityrightsms.org

Reality check: Legal aid is civil (housing, benefits, consumer issues). It does not handle criminal cases. Call early—case capacity is limited.

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Financial relief and taxes

• Mississippi state income tax on retirement: Mississippi excludes Social Security benefits and many retirement payments from state income tax. See current rules: Mississippi DOR – Individual Income Tax.
• Property tax relief (age 65+ or disabled): See Special Homestead Exemption: DOR – Homestead Exemption.
• Unclaimed property: The State Treasurer can help you find money owed to you (old accounts, refunds): Mississippi Treasury – Unclaimed Property.
• Free tax prep: Find IRS‑certified VITA/TCE sites for seniors: IRS – Free Tax Return Preparation.

Tip: Bring photo ID, Social Security cards, benefit statements (SSA‑1099), and property tax statements to tax appointments.

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Tables: Mississippi benefits at a glance

Table 1 — Health coverage and long‑term care

Table 2 — Food and utilities

Table 3 — Housing and home repairs

Table 4 — Transportation and mobility

Table 5 — Help with benefits and legal issues

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Inclusive supports

LGBTQ+ seniors in Mississippi

• Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP, housing, and all programs above are open to LGBTQ+ seniors. If you face discrimination, document it and seek help.
• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: peer support and resources: SAGE Hotline.
• Find welcoming services via 211: Search local resources at 211.org.

Reference on non‑discrimination in federally funded programs: HHS Office for Civil Rights.

Veteran seniors

• Mississippi Veterans Affairs (state): Claims assistance, state veterans homes, and connections to federal benefits: Mississippi Veterans Affairs.
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Health care, pensions, Aid & Attendance (can help pay for in‑home care or assisted living if eligible), and survivor benefits: VA – Apply for benefits.
• VA Caregiver Support: VA Caregiver Support Program.

Tip: Ask a VA‑accredited representative to file your claim to avoid errors. Find one: VA‑Accredited Representatives.

Tribal members (Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians)

• Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians (MBCI) offers tribal health and social services for eligible members: Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.
• Indian Health Service (IHS) – Nashville Area serves Mississippi tribes: IHS – Nashville Area.
• You can use both tribal/IHS and Medicare/Medicaid; ask your providers how to coordinate benefits.

Rural seniors and limited access

• Telehealth: Many Mississippi clinics and hospitals offer telehealth. Medicare and Medicaid cover many telehealth services. Start with your clinic or visit the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) telehealth info: UMMC Center for Telehealth.
• Phone/Internet: ACP ended; Lifeline still reduces eligible phone/Internet bills: USAC – Lifeline Support.
• Rides: Rural transit runs on schedules and advance reservations. See MDOT directory: MDOT – Public Transit.

Reality check: Broadband can be spotty. Ask your provider for a “Medically Necessary” note if you use remote monitoring; sometimes it can speed troubleshooting.

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Resources by region in Mississippi

Use this as a starting map. Your exact provider varies by county. Confirm through official directories.

If you are unsure which region you’re in, call 2‑1‑1 or use the Eldercare Locator to search by ZIP code.

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FAQs (Mississippi‑specific)

1. How do I get in‑home help through Medicaid instead of going to a nursing home?
   Start with Mississippi Medicaid’s Home‑ and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) waivers. The Elderly & Disabled (E&D) Waiver helps eligible adults get personal care, respite, and other services at home. Learn more and see application steps at the Mississippi Division of Medicaid: Medicaid – Long‑Term Care Programs. Your local Area Agency on Aging can also help with screening.
2. Is there a waiting list for the Elderly & Disabled Waiver?
   Often yes. Waivers have limited “slots.” Apply early and keep your contact info updated. For current status, contact DOM: Mississippi Division of Medicaid.
3. Who do I call to report suspected elder abuse or neglect?
   Use MDHS Adult Protective Services to report online or find the hotline: MDHS – Adult Protective Services. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
4. Can someone help me pick a Medicare plan that covers my medications?
   Yes, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free counseling. They can compare plans and check Extra Help eligibility: Find SHIP counselors.
5. Does Mississippi have property tax relief for seniors or disabled homeowners?
   Yes. The Special Homestead Exemption exempts up to $7,500ofassessedvalue($75,000 true value) for homeowners age 65+ or totally disabled. Details: DOR – Homestead Exemption. Apply with your county tax assessor.
6. My power is about to be cut off. What can I do?
   Ask about LIHEAP crisis help through MDHS Community Services: MDHS – Community Services. Also call your utility’s customer service—some offer payment plans or medical hardship protections. After disasters, check MEMA and FEMA.
7. Where can I get a ride to the doctor if I don’t drive?

• If you have Medicaid, use the Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) program: Medicaid – Transportation.
• If not, call your local transit provider via MDOT’s public transit page: MDOT – Public Transit. Your AAA may also know volunteer driver programs.

8. I’m homebound. How can I get meals?
   Ask your local AAA about home‑delivered meals (Meals on Wheels/Older Americans Act). Find your AAA: Eldercare Locator. If income‑eligible, apply for SNAP: MDHS – SNAP.
9. Is there help with home repairs or building a ramp?
   Homeowners age 62+ with very low income may qualify for USDA Section 504 repair grants/loans: USDA RD – Mississippi. If you are on a Medicaid waiver, ask if home modifications are covered: Medicaid – Long‑Term Care Programs.
10. How do I get a disabled parking placard?
    Ask your doctor to complete the state form. Apply through the Mississippi Department of Revenue: Mississippi DOR – Motor Vehicle.
11. Does Mississippi offer extra cash on top of SSI?
    Some states offer a state SSI supplement. For current Mississippi information, check SSA’s state pages or ask SSA directly: SSA – SSI.
12. Where do I complain about a nursing home in Mississippi?
    Contact the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman through MDHS Aging & Adult Services: MDHS – Aging & Adult Services. You can also file a formal complaint with MSDH: MSDH – File a Facility Complaint.
13. I live alone and feel isolated. Any programs that check on me?
    Ask your AAA about friendly visitor/telephone reassurance programs and senior centers. Find your local AAA: Eldercare Locator.
14. I lost my home in a storm. Where do I start?
    Report your damage to your county emergency management office, check MEMA updates: msema.org, and apply for FEMA assistance if an Individual Assistance declaration is in place: disasterassistance.gov.
15. How can I protect myself from Medicare fraud?
    Sign up for a free review through SHIP and read Medicare’s fraud tips: Medicare – Prevent fraud. Never share your Medicare or Social Security numbers with unknown callers.

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Resources directory (by topic)

Health and long‑term care

• Mississippi Division of Medicaid: medicaid.ms.gov
• Medicare: medicare.gov
• Extra Help: ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help
• SHIP (counseling): shiphelp.org

Aging, meals, caregiver support

• MDHS – Aging & Adult Services: mdhs.ms.gov
• Eldercare Locator (find AAA): eldercare.acl.gov
• National Family Caregiver Support Program overview: ACL – NFCSP

Food and utilities

• SNAP (MDHS): mdhs.ms.gov
• LIHEAP/Community Services (MDHS): mdhs.ms.gov
• Weatherization (DOE info): energy.gov/wap

Housing and property tax

• HUD – Mississippi: hud.gov/states/mississippi
• USDA Rural Development – Mississippi: rd.usda.gov/ms
• Mississippi DOR – Homestead Exemption: dor.ms.gov/property/homestead-exemption

Transportation and mobility

• MDOT – Public Transit: mdot.ms.gov
• Mississippi DOR – Motor Vehicle (placards/plates): dor.ms.gov/motor-vehicle

Legal and protection

• MDHS – Adult Protective Services: mdhs.ms.gov
• MSDH – Facility Complaints: msdh.ms.gov
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services: mslegalservices.org
• North Mississippi Rural Legal Services: nmrls.com
• Disability Rights Mississippi: disabilityrightsms.org

Veterans and tribal

• Mississippi Veterans Affairs: msva.ms.gov
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: va.gov
• Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians: choctaw.org
• IHS Nashville Area: ihs.gov/nashville

Disaster and crisis

• Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA): msema.org
• FEMA Disaster Assistance: disasterassistance.gov
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988lifeline.org

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Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Keep copies of everything you submit. If you mail forms, use certified mail or a receipt.
• Re‑determine on time: SNAP, Medicaid, and waivers require regular renewals. Mark your calendar 60 days ahead.
• Don’t pay for Medicare plan selection. SHIP is free and unbiased.
• Scams are common. Government agencies will not call to demand gift card payments. When in doubt, hang up and call the agency using a number from its official website.
• After disasters, fraud increases. Verify contractors’ licenses and never pay in full upfront.

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Disclaimer

Program details (eligibility, amounts, deadlines) can change. Always verify with the official agency or program website before you apply or make decisions. Links are provided to official government or well‑established sources for your convenience.

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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.