Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Iowa

Last updated: August 2025

---

Quick help box (save these)

Tip: Keep a notepad with names, dates, and confirmations when you call any agency.

---

How to use this guide

• Start with the Emergency section if you’re in crisis.
• Then jump to the benefit you need: health care, in-home care, food, housing, utilities, transportation, or legal help.
• Use the “Resources by region” section to contact your local Area Agency on Aging, which can screen you for several programs at once.

Reality checks and tips:

• Some programs have waitlists or paperwork that takes time. Apply early, reply to mail quickly, and keep copies of everything.
• If you’re denied, you often can appeal. Deadlines are short—sometimes 10–30 days.
• If websites feel overwhelming, call the numbers listed. Many programs can mail forms or help you apply by phone.

---

Emergency and urgent help in Iowa

• Abuse, neglect, or exploitation: Call Iowa’s Child and Dependent Adult Abuse hotline at 1-800-362-2178 or report online at the Iowa HHS site: Report abuse in Iowa.
• Mental health crisis: Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org.
• Eviction or utility shutoff:
  • Call 211 to locate urgent rent/utility aid: 211 Iowa.
  • Winter disconnection protections: Households that qualify for LIHEAP are protected from electric and gas disconnection from November 1 through April 1 under Iowa law. Learn more at the Iowa Utilities Board: Winter Moratorium consumer info.
• Long-term care concerns: If you or a loved one is in a nursing home, assisted living, or similar setting and has an urgent care or rights issue, call the Iowa Long-Term Care Ombudsman at 1-866-236-1430: Iowa LTC Ombudsman.
• Legal emergencies (eviction, benefits cut-off, elder abuse): Call Iowa Legal Aid, 1-800-532-1275 (toll-free) or apply online: Iowa Legal Aid.

Sources: Iowa HHS; Iowa Utilities Board; Iowa LTC Ombudsman; 988 Lifeline; Iowa Legal Aid (see links above).

---

Key benefits at a glance

---

Health coverage and disability benefits

Medicare in Iowa

• Medicare covers hospital, doctor, and many preventive services; you can add drug coverage (Part D) and Medigap or choose a Medicare Advantage plan.
• If money is tight, you may qualify for help that pays your Medicare premiums and sometimes deductibles/copays through the Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) and for drug costs through Extra Help.

Get free, unbiased help:

• Call Iowa SHIIP–SMP at 1-800-351-4664 to compare plans, apply for Extra Help, and learn about Medicare Savings Programs: Iowa SHIIP–SMP.
• Medicare official benefits and coverage details: Medicare.gov. Telehealth coverage information is here: Medicare telehealth coverage.

Apply for Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs:

• Extra Help (drug cost help): Social Security – Extra Help.
• Medicare Savings Programs in Iowa: apply through Iowa HHS: Medicaid – How to apply.

Reality check: Choosing Medicare coverage can be confusing, and marketing can be aggressive. Use SHIIP–SMP for side-by-side plan comparisons and for spotting scams. Source: Iowa Insurance Division SHIIP–SMP.

Iowa Medicaid for seniors and people with disabilities

• Iowa Medicaid covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and, for those who qualify, long-term services and supports (LTSS) at home or in a facility. Many members are enrolled in managed care under IA Health Link.
• Learn about coverage, financial rules, and how to apply: Iowa Medicaid. IA Health Link basics and plans: IA Health Link – Iowa HHS.

Common paths to eligibility:

• Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) Medicaid.
• Medicaid for those in nursing facilities (with a level of care need and financial eligibility).
• Medicaid Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers (see below).

Apply or check eligibility:

• Online and options: How to apply – Iowa HHS.
• Member services: 1-800-338-8366 (Iowa Medicaid).

Documentation tips: Be ready with ID, proof of Iowa residency, Social Security number, proof of income and assets, and medical bills or disability records if asked. Source: Iowa HHS (see links above).

Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) for aging at home

HCBS help you remain at home instead of moving to a nursing facility. Services can include homemaker help, personal care, adult day services, respite, home-delivered meals, home modifications, and personal emergency response systems.

Key options in Iowa:

• Elderly Waiver (Medicaid): For Iowans who meet nursing facility level of care and financial criteria. Waiver services are arranged through case managers; many services can be “consumer-directed” (you help choose who provides care). Learn more and see covered services at: Elderly Waiver – Iowa HHS.
• Other HCBS waivers (if disability-specific): Iowa operates other waivers (e.g., Brain Injury, Physical Disability). See all waivers and general information at: Iowa Medicaid HCBS.
• Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE): PACE is a Medicare-Medicaid program that coordinates all care for eligible older adults who meet nursing home level of care but can safely live in the community. Check availability near you through the National PACE program locator: Find a PACE program. For Medicaid coverage of PACE in Iowa, contact Iowa Medicaid: Iowa Medicaid – LTSS.

Reality check:

• Waivers can have waiting lists at times. Ask your AAA or Iowa Medicaid about current wait status and whether interim services are available.
• Financial eligibility can be complex. If you’re close to the limits, ask SHIIP–SMP or an elder law attorney about options.

Long-term care in facilities

• Nursing facilities, skilled rehab, and certain assisted living memory care units are regulated in Iowa. Facility inspections and reports are available from the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL): Find facility information – DIAL.
• Eligibility for Medicaid nursing facility coverage depends on medical need and financial rules; start with Iowa Medicaid: Iowa Medicaid long-term services.
• Problems with care? Contact the Iowa Long-Term Care Ombudsman: LTC Ombudsman, 1-866-236-1430.

---

In-home support, meals, and caregiver help (non-Medicaid)

Iowa’s six Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) provide Older Americans Act services such as meals, homemaker help, caregiver support, and case management. Services vary by county and funding.

• Find your AAA and request an options counselor: LifeLong Links (AAA locator).
• Overview of programs from the Iowa Department on Aging: Iowa Department on Aging and program pages such as Family Caregiver Support Program and Nutrition Services.

What to expect:

• Meals: community dining and home-delivered meals for homebound older adults.
• Case management and options counseling: help building a plan for multiple benefits.
• Caregiver support: respite, counseling, and training for those caring for a loved one.

Source: Iowa Department on Aging (links above).

---

Food and basic needs

SNAP (Food Assistance)

• Monthly EBT benefits to buy groceries. Many seniors qualify, and there is a standard medical expense deduction that can help if you have out-of-pocket medical costs.
• Apply and learn more: Food Assistance (SNAP) – Iowa HHS.
• Need help applying? Your local AAA or 211 can help: LifeLong Links | 211 Iowa.

Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)

• Provides vouchers in the summer to buy fresh produce from approved farmers’ markets for eligible older adults.
• Learn about Iowa’s SFMNP and how to get vouchers through your AAA: SFMNP – Iowa Department on Aging.

Home-delivered and congregate meals

• Meal sites and Meals on Wheels-like delivery are arranged by AAAs.
• Ask your local AAA: Find your AAA – LifeLong Links.

---

Housing, home repairs, and utilities

Property tax and rent help for older Iowans

• Rent Reimbursement (65+ or disabled): Iowa may reimburse part of the rent you paid last year if your income is under set limits. Details and forms: Iowa Rent Reimbursement – Department of Revenue.
• Homestead and other property tax relief: Iowa offers property tax credits/exemptions (including homestead and some relief for older adults and disabled veterans). See official rules: Homestead Tax Credit and Exemptions – Iowa Dept. of Revenue.
• Disabled Veteran Homestead Tax Credit: Property tax relief for certain disabled veterans. See eligibility at the same Department of Revenue link above.

Tip: Property tax programs are filed with your county assessor/auditor; deadlines vary. Call your county office early each year. Source: Iowa Department of Revenue.

Energy, utility bills, and weatherization

• LIHEAP (heating/electric bill help): Apply through your local Community Action Agency each fall/winter. Information and links: LIHEAP – Iowa Department of Human Rights.
• Weatherization Assistance Program: Free energy-saving repairs that can lower bills (insulation, furnace tune-ups, etc.). Details: Weatherization – Iowa DHR.
• Winter disconnection protection for eligible LIHEAP households: Iowa Utilities Board – Winter Moratorium.
• Problems with a utility? File a complaint with the Iowa Utilities Board: IUB complaint form or call 1-877-565-4450.

Home repair and accessibility

• USDA Rural Development Section 504 Home Repair (grants for 62+ with very low incomes; loans for others) for health/safety repairs and accessibility modifications: USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants and Iowa contacts: USDA RD Iowa.
• Weatherization (above) may address some health/safety issues related to energy.
• Assistive Technology and home modification help/loans: Iowa’s Assistive Technology program offers device loans, reuse, and financing options via Easterseals Iowa: Iowa Assistive Technology Program.
• Fair housing complaints (disability accommodations, discrimination): Iowa Civil Rights Commission.

Housing search

• HUD subsidized apartments and housing choice voucher info: HUD Iowa – Public Housing and Section 8.
• For eviction prevention, rental help, or legal defenses, contact: Iowa Legal Aid and call 211 to find local aid.

---

Transportation and getting to care

Reality check: Paratransit requires eligibility approval and advance scheduling. For NEMT, call early—some rides need 2–3 business days’ notice. Sources: Iowa DOT; Iowa HHS.

---

Work, money, and legal help

• Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP): Part-time, paid training for job seekers 55+ with limited income. Contact the Iowa program via the Department on Aging: SCSEP – Iowa Department on Aging.
• Social Security and SSI: Retirement, disability, and Supplemental Security Income applications and appeals: Social Security Administration.
• Legal help for benefits, housing, and elder law: Iowa Legal Aid.
• Protection from scams and Medicare fraud: Iowa SHIIP–SMP, 1-800-351-4664.
• Guardianship and decision support: Iowa Office of Public Guardian helps in limited cases when no one else is able/appropriate to serve. Learn more at the Iowa Department on Aging: Office of Public Guardian.

---

Navigating applications: what to gather

Note: Agencies will tell you exactly what they need. If gathering papers is hard, ask for help from your AAA or a trusted caseworker. Sources: Iowa HHS; Iowa DHR; Iowa Dept. of Revenue; Iowa DOT.

---

Inclusive supports

LGBTQ+ older adults

• Discrimination is illegal in Iowa on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in many areas including housing and public accommodations. If you face discrimination, contact the Iowa Civil Rights Commission: ICRC – File a complaint.
• Iowa SHIIP–SMP and AAAs serve everyone; if you need an LGBTQ+-affirming resource list, One Iowa is a statewide nonprofit with programs for older adults: One Iowa.

Veteran seniors

• Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) connects veterans to benefits, county VA offices, and the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund (which may help with medical care, housing, and more): Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs.
• Federal VA health and benefits: VA.gov.
• Major VA health systems in Iowa: Iowa City VA Health Care System and VA Central Iowa (Des Moines). Find care: Find VA locations.

Tip: Contact your County Veterans Service Office through IDVA for hands-on help with claims and local relief.

Tribal members

• Iowa’s federally recognized tribe is the Sac & Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa (Meskwaki Nation). For members, contact the tribe for elder services and health: Meskwaki Nation.
• Indian Health Service information and elder programs: IHS.
• AAAs and state programs listed in this guide are available to eligible tribal members living in Iowa.

Rural seniors and families

• Many services can be arranged by phone or mail if traveling is hard. Ask for phone appointments and mailed forms.
• Ask your AAA about volunteer driver programs and home-delivered services: LifeLong Links.
• Phone and internet discount for low-income households: Lifeline provides a monthly discount on phone or internet service: Lifeline Support. (Note: this is different from ACP, which has ended unless renewed by Congress.)

---

Resources by region (Iowa’s Area Agencies on Aging)

Use LifeLong Links to connect to your local office by ZIP code: Find your AAA. You can also contact an agency directly:

• Aging Resources of Central Iowa (Des Moines)
  Phone: 515-255-1310 | Toll-free: 800-747-5352
  Website: Aging Resources of Central Iowa
• Elderbridge Agency on Aging (North/Northwest)
  Phone: 800-243-0678
  Website: Elderbridge Agency on Aging
• Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging (NEI3A)
  Phone: 800-779-8707
  Website: NEI3A
• Heritage Area Agency on Aging (Cedar Rapids/Iowa City region)
  Phone: 319-398-5559 | Toll-free: 800-332-5934
  Website: Heritage AAA
• Milestones Area Agency on Aging (Southeast)
  Phone: 855-410-6222
  Website: Milestones AAA
• Connections Area Agency on Aging (Southwest/Western)
  Phone: 800-432-9209
  Website: Connections AAA

Note: Service areas and phone numbers are provided by each agency. If in doubt, use LifeLong Links to look up your county: LifeLong Links. Source: Iowa Department on Aging.

---

Program details: what they are and how they help

Below are more details on the most-used programs, in plain language.

Elderly Waiver (Medicaid HCBS)

• What it is: A Medicaid program that pays for in-home and community services so you can avoid or delay nursing home placement.
• What it covers: Homemaker help, personal care, adult day, respite for caregivers, home-delivered meals, assistive devices, personal emergency response, and more (services are authorized based on your needs).
• Who it helps: Iowans who meet nursing facility level of care and financial rules.
• Where to start: Elderly Waiver – Iowa HHS.

Reality check: There can be wait times. If you need immediate help, ask your AAA about temporary services or other waivers that might fit. Source: Iowa HHS.

IA Health Link (Iowa Medicaid managed care)

• What it is: Most Medicaid members get care through managed care organizations (MCOs).
• What it covers: Medical, behavioral health, and, for waiver members, some long-term services. Each MCO has member services and extra benefits.
• Where to learn more: IA Health Link – Iowa HHS.

Tip: Keep your MCO card and call your plan’s member services for transportation and provider network questions. Source: Iowa HHS.

SHIIP–SMP (Medicare counseling and fraud prevention)

• What it is: A free, unbiased counseling program through the Iowa Insurance Division.
• What it does: Helps you compare Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D; screens for Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs; teaches you to spot and report Medicare fraud.
• How to get help: 1-800-351-4664 or Iowa SHIIP–SMP.

LIHEAP and Weatherization

• What it is: Energy assistance to lower bills and make homes safer and more efficient.
• What it does: LIHEAP gives a one-time bill credit and may stop winter shutoff; Weatherization does free energy-saving home improvements.
• How to apply: Through your local Community Action Agency. Start at: LIHEAP – Iowa DHR and Weatherization – Iowa DHR.

SNAP (Food Assistance)

• What it is: Monthly funds to buy food on an EBT card.
• What it does: Helps your grocery budget; allowed foods include produce, meat, dairy, bread, and more.
• How to apply: Food Assistance – Iowa HHS.

Rent Reimbursement (65+ or disabled)

• What it is: An annual program that may reimburse part of the rent you paid last year if you meet age/disability and income rules.
• What it does: Direct payment after you file the claim.
• How to apply: Iowa Rent Reimbursement – Department of Revenue.

---

Step-by-step: applying for Iowa benefits online or by phone

1. Make a simple “benefits folder.” Include ID, Medicare/Medicaid cards, Social Security letter, bank statements, rent/utility bills, and a list of prescriptions.
2. Apply for health and food benefits through Iowa HHS: How to apply – Iowa HHS.
3. Call your AAA to ask about meals, caregiver support, and help with forms: LifeLong Links.
4. For Medicare plan questions or drug costs, call SHIIP–SMP: 1-800-351-4664.
5. For energy bills, contact your local Community Action for LIHEAP/Weatherization: LIHEAP – Iowa DHR.
6. Keep copies of everything you submit. If you’re denied, read the notice for appeal deadlines and call Legal Aid if needed: Iowa Legal Aid.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I apply for the Iowa Elderly Waiver?

• Start by applying for Iowa Medicaid if you’re not already enrolled: How to apply – Iowa HHS.
• Tell HHS you want an assessment for the Elderly Waiver. If approved, you’ll work with a case manager to set up services. Learn more here: Elderly Waiver – Iowa HHS.

2. Is there a waitlist for the Elderly Waiver?

• It depends on funding and demand. Ask Iowa Medicaid member services (1-800-338-8366) or your AAA about current status. If there’s a wait, ask what services you can get now and how to keep your place.

3. Who can help me pick a Medicare plan in Iowa?

• Call SHIIP–SMP at 1-800-351-4664 for unbiased help. They’ll check your doctors and prescriptions and see if Extra Help or a Medicare Savings Program can lower your costs: Iowa SHIIP–SMP.

4. I can’t pay my heating bill. What should I do?

• Call your utility right away to ask about payment plans.
• Apply for LIHEAP at your local Community Action: LIHEAP – Iowa DHR.
• If it’s between Nov 1 and Apr 1 and you’re approved for LIHEAP, state law limits disconnections: Winter Moratorium info.

5. Can I get rides to my doctor in Iowa?

• If you have Medicaid, ask your IA Health Link plan about Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): IA Health Link – Iowa HHS or call 1-800-338-8366.
• If you don’t have Medicaid, check your local transit provider and your AAA for volunteer driver programs: Iowa DOT Transit | LifeLong Links.

6. Where can I find help with home-delivered meals?

• Contact your local Area Agency on Aging: Find your AAA – LifeLong Links. They can also check if you qualify for meal donations or sliding-scale fees.

7. How do I report abuse or poor care in a nursing home?

• Call the Iowa Long-Term Care Ombudsman at 1-866-236-1430 or use their contact options here: LTC Ombudsman.
• If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

8. I rent and I’m 65+. Can Iowa help with rent?

• You may qualify for Rent Reimbursement. Check the Department of Revenue page for forms and deadlines: Rent Reimbursement.

9. What if I can’t get online to apply?

• You can apply by mail or sometimes by phone. Call Iowa Medicaid (1-800-338-8366) or your AAA to get paper forms sent to you: LifeLong Links. For SNAP, see options at Food Assistance – Iowa HHS.

10. Do I need to be on Medicaid to get help at home?

• Not always. AAAs provide some limited services regardless of Medicaid status, depending on funding and need. Ask your AAA what’s available and if there are waitlists: LifeLong Links.

11. I’m a veteran. Should I apply through the VA or Iowa Medicaid?

• Both may help. A County Veterans Service Officer can help you apply for VA health care and benefits: Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs. Also explore Medicaid for coverage and in-home services: Iowa Medicaid.

12. Can I get help paying my Medicare premium in Iowa?

• Possibly. The Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) may pay your Part B premium and sometimes other costs if your income fits. Apply through Iowa HHS: How to apply and ask SHIIP–SMP for screening help: Iowa SHIIP–SMP.

13. How do I find out if a nursing home is safe and inspected?

• Review inspection reports through the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing: DIAL health care facilities. You can also check Medicare’s Care Compare: Medicare Care Compare.

14. Are there programs to help make my home safer or more accessible?

• Yes. Weatherization helps with energy safety issues; USDA Section 504 can fund critical repairs and accessibility changes for eligible seniors; and Iowa’s Assistive Technology program can help with devices. See: Weatherization – Iowa DHR | USDA Section 504 | Iowa AT Program.

15. Where can I get unbiased help pulling all this together?

• Your local Area Agency on Aging can serve as a “one-stop” entry point. Ask for an options counselor or case management: LifeLong Links.

---

Tables you can print or save

1) Health coverage and cost help

2) In-home supports and long-term care

3) Food and basic needs

4) Housing, utilities, and home safety

5) Transportation

---

Resource directory (official and well-established)

• Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (Medicaid, SNAP, HCBS, abuse reporting): Iowa HHS | How to apply | Abuse hotline: 1-800-362-2178
• Iowa Department on Aging (programs, AAAs): Iowa Department on Aging | AAA locator: LifeLong Links
• Iowa Insurance Division – SHIIP–SMP (Medicare counseling): Iowa SHIIP–SMP | 1-800-351-4664
• Iowa Department of Human Rights – Community Action (LIHEAP, Weatherization): LIHEAP | Weatherization
• Iowa Department of Revenue (Rent Reimbursement, property tax credits): Rent Reimbursement | Homestead/Exemptions
• Iowa Utilities Board (consumer protections, winter moratorium, complaints): IUB consumer protection
• Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (facility inspections): DIAL healthcare facilities
• Iowa Long-Term Care Ombudsman: LTC Ombudsman | 1-866-236-1430
• Iowa Legal Aid: iowalegalaid.org | 1-800-532-1275
• Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs: va.iowa.gov
• Social Security Administration (SSI/SSDI, Extra Help): ssa.gov | Extra Help
• Medicare (official): medicare.gov
• National PACE Association (locator): PACE finder
• Iowa Assistive Technology Program: iowaat.org
• Iowa Civil Rights Commission (disability and LGBTQ+ protections): icrc.iowa.gov
• 211 Iowa: 211iowa.org

---

Disclaimer

Program rules, funding, eligibility limits, and phone numbers can change. Always confirm details with the agency or program using the official links and numbers in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, or medical advice.

---

About this guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:
• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: 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.