Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Wyoming
Last updated: August 2025
Quick Help (Emergency First)
- Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies or immediate danger.
- Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988, or visit the 988 Lifeline at https://988lifeline.org
- Call Wyoming 2-1-1 to find local help fast (food, housing, bills, transport): https://wyoming211.org
- Report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult:
- Wyoming Adult Protective Services (APS) information and how to report: https://dfs.wyo.gov
- If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
- Medicare counseling from trained, unbiased counselors (SHIP): Use the national SHIP locator and select Wyoming: https://www.shiphelp.org
- Social Security (SSDI/SSI/Medicare): 1-800-772-1213 or find a local office: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp
- Medicaid in Wyoming (coverage, long-term care, benefits): https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
- Elder care and aging services in Wyoming (state Aging Division): https://health.wyo.gov/aging/
What this guide does (and doesn’t)
- Plain-English steps to apply for benefits in Wyoming
- Direct links to official applications and offices
- State-specific programs like the Community Choices Waiver and Wyoming Medication Donation Program
- Reality checks on waitlists, rural access, and documents you’ll need
It won’t: guarantee approval, give legal advice, or replace your doctor, lawyer, or caseworker.
Reality check: what to expect
- Wyoming is rural. Transportation, in-home care workers, and specialists can be hard to find outside larger towns. Build backup plans.
- Popular programs can have waitlists (for example, housing vouchers, some in-home care slots). Apply early, and ask for interim help.
- Agencies need paperwork. Keep ID, Social Security card, proof of income, bank statements, and medical information in an easy-to-grab folder.
- Don’t assume you don’t qualify. Many seniors who think they’re “over income” qualify for partial help (for example, Medicare Savings Programs or energy assistance).
First steps if money is tight (food, utilities, quick savings)
Use this table to find and apply for the fastest-help programs in Wyoming.
| Program | What it does | Who it’s for | Where to apply/check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Monthly funds on an EBT card to buy groceries. | Low-income households. Seniors/disabled often qualify even with small pensions. | Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS) SNAP: https://dfs.wyo.gov |
| Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) | Helps pay winter heating bills; crisis help in emergencies when funding is available. | Low- to moderate-income households. | Official LIEAP information and applications: https://dfs.wyo.gov and program portal: https://www.lieapwyo.org/ |
| Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | Free home energy fixes (insulation, sealing, sometimes furnace work) to cut bills. | Income-eligible homeowners and renters (owner permission required). | DFS Weatherization overview: https://dfs.wyo.gov |
| Lifeline (phone/internet) | Monthly discount on phone or broadband for low-income consumers. | Income-eligible or enrolled in SNAP/Medicaid/SSI/VA pension. | Federal Lifeline program: https://www.lifelinesupport.org |
| Property Tax Refund (homeowners) | State refund program for eligible WY homeowners (application window each year). | Income and residency rules apply; deadlines vary by year. | Wyoming Property Tax Refund portal: https://wptrs.wyo.gov and WY Dept. of Revenue: https://revenue.wyo.gov |
Tips:
- If you get SNAP or Medicaid, ask about automatic eligibility for Lifeline.
- For property tax help, apply early in the window posted on the state site; you’ll need tax bills and proof of residency.
Sources: Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS): https://dfs.wyo.gov; Wyoming Department of Revenue: https://revenue.wyo.gov; Lifeline (FCC/USAC): https://www.lifelinesupport.org.
Health coverage and lowering medical costs
Medicare help in Wyoming
- Free, one-on-one Medicare counseling: use the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) locator and choose Wyoming: https://www.shiphelp.org
- Extra Help (Part D): lowers prescription costs if your income/resources are limited. Apply with Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp
- Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI): help pay Medicare Part A/B premiums and sometimes copays/deductibles if you meet income and resource rules. Start with Wyoming Medicaid: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
Reality check: Plans change every year. Review your Part D or Medicare Advantage plan annually during Open Enrollment and confirm that your prescriptions and doctors are still covered. SHIP counselors can help you compare.
Sources: Medicare.gov: https://www.medicare.gov; Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp; SHIP locator: https://www.shiphelp.org; Wyoming Medicaid: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
Medicaid for seniors and people with disabilities in Wyoming
Wyoming Medicaid may help with:
- Nursing home care (long-term care)
- In-home services and supports
- Medical transportation to covered appointments
- Medicare premiums through Medicare Savings Programs
Key pathways:
- Aged, Blind, Disabled Medicaid (ABD): for people 65+ or with qualifying disabilities. Income and resource limits apply.
- Long-Term Care Medicaid (nursing homes)
- Community Choices Waiver (CCW): home- and community-based services for eligible seniors and adults with disabilities who meet nursing facility level of care.
Where to learn and apply:
- Wyoming Medicaid overview and eligibility: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
- Long-term services and supports (LTSS) information (including waivers): https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
Reality check: Waiver services like CCW can have waitlists in some areas. If you need help today, ask about interim services through the Older Americans Act (homemaker, meals, transportation) via the Wyoming Aging Division: https://health.wyo.gov/aging/ and the Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov
Compare common options in Wyoming
| Option | What it covers | Basic medical need | Notes and where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aged, Blind, Disabled (ABD) Medicaid | Doctor/hospital care, some long-term services; may pair with Medicare. | Medical necessity; income/resources must meet WY limits. | Start at Wyoming Medicaid eligibility: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/ |
| Community Choices Waiver (CCW) | In-home personal care, case management, adult day, respite, emergency response systems, some home mods. | Must meet “nursing facility level of care.” | Learn about LTSS/waivers: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/ |
| Nursing Home Medicaid | Room/board and care in a Medicaid-certified nursing facility. | Nursing facility level of care. | Ask facilities about Medicaid beds; see ombudsman for help: https://health.wyo.gov/aging/ |
| Medicare Savings Programs | Pays Medicare premiums and sometimes cost sharing. | Based on income/resources. | Apply through WY Medicaid: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/ |
Source: Wyoming Department of Health, Division of Healthcare Financing (Medicaid): https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
Transportation to medical care (NEMT)
- Wyoming Medicaid covers non-emergency medical transportation for eligible members to Medicaid-covered services (mileage reimbursement, approved rides). Rules and contractors can change; check current instructions and claims forms on the Wyoming Medicaid site: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
- If you don’t have Medicaid, ask your local senior center (Older Americans Act transportation) via Wyoming Aging Division: https://health.wyo.gov/aging/ and call Wyoming 2-1-1: https://wyoming211.org.
Tip: Keep appointment letters and mileage logs; you usually need to request rides or mileage reimbursement in advance and keep receipts, depending on the program.
Lowering prescription costs in Wyoming
- Extra Help (Part D) through Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp
- Wyoming Medication Donation Program: Free, safe, donated medications for eligible WY residents (prescription and eligibility required). This is state-run and can be a big help if you fall into a coverage gap. Learn how it works, what’s available, and participating sites: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/pbm/medication-donation-program/
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs (non-government) can help if your drug isn’t covered; SHIP counselors can help you explore options: https://www.shiphelp.org
Source: Wyoming Department of Health — Medication Donation Program: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/pbm/medication-donation-program/
In-home care, meals, caregiver help, and long-term care
Older Americans Act services (no Medicaid required)
Wyoming’s Aging Division funds services in communities across the state. These may include:
- Home-delivered and congregate meals
- Homemaker and chore help
- Transportation
- Case management
- Respite for family caregivers
How to get connected:
- Wyoming Aging Division main page: https://health.wyo.gov/aging/
- Eldercare Locator to find local providers by ZIP: https://eldercare.acl.gov
Reality check: Services are free or low-cost, but funding is limited. Some areas have waiting lists or limited hours. Ask about priority rules for those with greatest need.
Source: Administration for Community Living (ACL) OAA overview: https://acl.gov/programs/aging-and-disability-networks/administration-aging
Community Choices Waiver (CCW) — in-home Medicaid help
- What it is: A Wyoming Medicaid waiver that helps eligible seniors and adults with disabilities get care at home or in the community instead of a nursing facility. Services can include personal care, emergency response systems, adult day services, case management, respite, and some home modifications.
- Who qualifies: You must meet nursing facility level of care and Medicaid financial rules. A functional assessment is required.
- How to apply: Start with Wyoming Medicaid LTSS information and contact options here: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
Tip: If you have a spouse at home, ask about “spousal impoverishment” rules that protect a portion of the at-home spouse’s income and assets. See general federal guidance: https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/eligibility/spousal-impoverishment/index.html and confirm details with Wyoming Medicaid.
Nursing homes and your rights
- The Wyoming Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program helps residents and families resolve problems in nursing homes and assisted living. They are independent advocates. Learn more and find contacts via the Aging Division: https://health.wyo.gov/aging/
- Check Medicare Care Compare for facility inspections and staffing: https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare
Report concerns: If someone is at risk of harm, call 911. Otherwise, contact the facility first, then the ombudsman, and consider a complaint to state licensing via the Wyoming Department of Health: https://health.wyo.gov
Housing, home repairs, and accessibility
Finding affordable rentals or vouchers
- Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) and public housing are run by local housing authorities, with waitlists that open and close. Use HUD’s resource locator to find housing authorities and affordable properties: https://resources.hud.gov/
- HUD’s LIHTC database lists income-restricted apartments (non-voucher): https://lihtc.huduser.gov/
Reality check: Waitlists can be long. Apply to more than one housing authority if you can travel or relocate, and keep paperwork up to date.
Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): https://www.hud.gov and https://resources.hud.gov
Property tax relief in Wyoming
- State Property Tax Refund Program: Annual application window; income and residency rules apply. Portal and program info: https://wptrs.wyo.gov and Department of Revenue overview: https://revenue.wyo.gov
- Veterans property tax exemption (county-level): See Wyoming Department of Revenue and your County Assessor for requirements and forms: https://revenue.wyo.gov
Tip: Ask your county treasurer/assessor about local deferral or relief options; rules vary by county.
Weatherization and energy repairs
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free energy upgrades to lower bills and improve safety (insulation, air sealing, sometimes furnace/venting repairs). Start with DFS: https://dfs.wyo.gov
- LIEAP crisis: Can sometimes help in emergencies like a disconnect notice when funding allows: https://www.lieapwyo.org/
Home modifications and equipment
- Medicaid CCW: May cover certain home modifications (ramps, grab bars) when medically necessary. See CCW/Medicaid LTSS: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
- VA grants (for veteran homeowners): Specially Adapted Housing (SAH), Special Housing Adaptation (SHA), and HISA grants for service-connected needs: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/
- Wyoming Assistive Technology Resources (WATR): Try-before-you-buy device loans, demonstrations, and reuse options. University of Wyoming program: https://www.uwyo.edu/wind/watr/
Transportation across a rural state
- Local public and senior transit: Most Wyoming communities have small transit systems or dial-a-ride services. The best first stop is Wyoming 2-1-1 to find providers in your county: https://wyoming211.org
- ADA paratransit: If your town has fixed-route buses, paratransit may be available for those who can’t use regular buses because of a disability. Know your ADA rights: https://www.transit.dot.gov/ADA
- Medicaid NEMT: For eligible Medicaid members to Medicaid-covered appointments. See Wyoming Medicaid: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
- Winter travel planning: Check road conditions before medical trips: WYDOT Travel Information (Wyoming 511): https://www.wyoroad.info/
Income, disability benefits, and work
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Learn, apply, or appeal at Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/
- If denied, appeal on time. Many cases are approved on reconsideration or hearing.
- Working while on benefits: Social Security has special rules (Trial Work Period, Ticket to Work) so you can try working without losing benefits right away. Learn more: https://www.ssa.gov/work/
- Vocational Rehabilitation (for those who want to work): Wyoming VR helps with job counseling, training, and accommodations for people with disabilities. Wyoming Department of Workforce Services VR: https://wyomingworkforce.org
Taxes note: Wyoming has no state personal income tax. Confirm general tax information: Wyoming Department of Revenue: https://revenue.wyo.gov
Protecting yourself: abuse, fraud, and legal help
| Need | Who helps | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| Abuse, neglect, exploitation (in the community) | Adult Protective Services (APS) | Information and reporting guidance: https://dfs.wyo.gov |
| Problems in nursing homes/assisted living | Long-Term Care Ombudsman | Wyoming Aging Division: https://health.wyo.gov/aging/ |
| Medicare fraud/billing problems | Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) | National SMP info and contact: https://acl.gov/SMP; Wyoming SMP works through the state aging network/University of Wyoming Center on Aging |
| Identity theft | Federal Trade Commission (FTC) | Report and recover: https://www.identitytheft.gov |
| Civil legal help (benefits, housing, consumer) | Legal Aid of Wyoming and partners | Legal Aid of Wyoming: https://www.lawyoming.org/ and Equal Justice Wyoming info portal: https://www.equaljustice.wy.gov/ |
Sources: Wyoming Department of Family Services (APS): https://dfs.wyo.gov; Wyoming Department of Health Aging Division: https://health.wyo.gov/aging/; Administration for Community Living (SMP): https://acl.gov/SMP; Legal Aid of Wyoming: https://www.lawyoming.org/
Inclusive support: specific groups
LGBTQ+ older adults
- Wyoming Equality (statewide): Resources and referrals for LGBTQ+ residents. https://wyomingequality.org
- SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline: 877-360-LGBT (5428). Information and support for LGBTQ+ older adults and caregivers. https://www.sageusa.org
Tips: If you face discrimination in housing, healthcare, or services, keep notes and contact Legal Aid of Wyoming: https://www.lawyoming.org/ or file a complaint with HHS Office for Civil Rights (healthcare): https://www.hhs.gov/ocr
Veteran seniors
- Wyoming Veterans Commission: Claims assistance, VA benefit navigation, and county Veteran Service Officer (VSO) contacts. https://veterans.wyo.gov
- VA Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits: Add-on to VA pension to help pay for in-home care or assisted living-level care. https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
- VA health care systems serving Wyoming:
- Cheyenne VA Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/cheyenne-health-care/
- Sheridan VA Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/sheridan-health-care/
Tip: Bring marriage certificates, discharge papers (DD-214), and medical records to VSO appointments. Ask about surviving spouse benefits.
Tribal elders: Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho
- IHS Wind River Service Unit (Billings Area): Primary care and referrals for eligible American Indian/Alaska Native patients. https://www.ihs.gov/billings/healthcarefacilities/windriver/
- Tribal health programs often provide care coordination and transport—check with your tribal health department and Wyoming 2-1-1: https://wyoming211.org
- Eldercare Locator can point to services available on or near the reservation: https://eldercare.acl.gov
Reminder: If you have Medicare or Medicaid, bring all coverage cards to appointments so billing is correct.
Rural seniors and families (limited access)
- Telehealth: Ask your clinic and Medicare plan about covered telehealth visits. Medicare telehealth coverage details: https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/telehealth
- Mail-order pharmacies: Ask your plan for 90-day supplies by mail to avoid winter road closures.
- Home-delivered meals: Find providers through the Aging Division and Eldercare Locator: https://health.wyo.gov/aging/ and https://eldercare.acl.gov
- USDA Rural Housing Repair Grants (Section 504): For very low-income homeowners age 62+ to fix health/safety hazards. Wyoming program page: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/wy
- Road safety and closures: WYDOT travel info (Wyoming 511): https://www.wyoroad.info/
How to apply: a simple plan
- Make a benefits folder
- Photo ID, Social Security card or number
- Proof of Wyoming residency (lease, utility bill)
- Income proof (Social Security award letter, pensions, pay stubs)
- Bank statements, medical bills, rent/tax bills
- Apply for the fastest help first
- LIEAP and Weatherization: https://www.lieapwyo.org/ and DFS: https://dfs.wyo.gov
- SNAP: DFS SNAP page and local office links: https://dfs.wyo.gov
- Medicare help: Extra Help via SSA: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp; SHIP counseling: https://www.shiphelp.org
- Then layer in long-term help
- Medicaid (ABD, CCW): https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
- OAA services through Aging Division: https://health.wyo.gov/aging/
- Housing via HUD Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov
- Get free, unbiased advice
- SHIP for Medicare: https://www.shiphelp.org
- Legal Aid for denials/appeals: https://www.lawyoming.org/
- 2-1-1 to find local providers and transportation: https://wyoming211.org
Wyoming program highlights (details and links)
| Program | What it is | What it covers | Where to learn/apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community Choices Waiver (CCW) | Medicaid HCBS waiver to help you stay at home. | Personal care, case management, respite, adult day, emergency response, some home mods. | Wyoming Medicaid LTSS info: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/ |
| Wyoming Medication Donation Program | State-run medication reuse program. | Free donated medications for eligible residents. | Program info and sites: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/pbm/medication-donation-program/ |
| APS (Adult Protective Services) | Investigates abuse, neglect, exploitation. | Safety planning, protective services with court involvement if needed. | How to report: https://dfs.wyo.gov |
| SHIP (Medicare counseling) | Free unbiased Medicare help. | Plan comparisons, billing questions, appeals guidance. | SHIP locator (choose WY): https://www.shiphelp.org |
| Senior centers/OAA services | Local aging services coordinated by Aging Division. | Meals, transport, homemaker, caregiver support. | Wyoming Aging Division: https://health.wyo.gov/aging/ |
Resources by region (find local offices and rides)
| Need | How to find it | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Local DFS office (SNAP, LIEAP info) | DFS contact page lists locations and phone numbers. | https://dfs.wyo.gov |
| Local senior services provider | Use Eldercare Locator by ZIP or call; they’ll point you to your nearest provider. | https://eldercare.acl.gov |
| Public and senior transit providers | Start with 2-1-1 to see county providers and dial-a-ride options. | https://wyoming211.org |
| SSA field offices (Casper, Cheyenne, etc.) | SSA office locator. | https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp |
| VA health and benefits offices | Find VA facilities near you. | https://www.va.gov/find-locations |
| Housing authorities and affordable housing | HUD Resource Locator. | https://resources.hud.gov |
Tip: In larger towns (Cheyenne, Casper, Jackson, Laramie, Sheridan, Gillette), look for city transit plus paratransit. In smaller communities, many rides are arranged through senior centers or counties—call 2-1-1.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting to apply because “someone else needs it more.” These programs are designed for you, and some help is first-come, first-served.
- Not answering mail. Agencies send time-limited letters. If you miss a deadline, call right away and ask for options.
- Not telling your doctor or pharmacist about cost problems. They can switch to covered drugs, provide samples, or complete medical necessity paperwork.
Frequently Asked Questions (Wyoming-specific)
Q: Does Wyoming have a PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly)?
- A: As of the latest available information, Wyoming does not operate a PACE program. If you need coordinated in-home and community services, ask about the Community Choices Waiver and Older Americans Act services. Wyoming Medicaid: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/ and Aging Division: https://health.wyo.gov/aging/
Q: How do I get in-home help without going to a nursing home?
- A: Apply for the Community Choices Waiver (if you meet level-of-care and financial rules) through Wyoming Medicaid: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/. If you don’t qualify or are waiting, contact the Aging Division for homemaker, meals, and respite: https://health.wyo.gov/aging/
Q: Can I have both Medicare and Medicaid in Wyoming?
- A: Yes. Many Wyoming seniors have Medicare as primary and Medicaid as secondary for cost-sharing and long-term services. Ask about Medicare Savings Programs to cover Part B premiums: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
Q: Who can help me compare Medicare plans?
- A: Trained, unbiased SHIP counselors (free). Use the national SHIP locator and choose Wyoming: https://www.shiphelp.org
Q: Is there help with expensive prescriptions in Wyoming?
- A: Yes. Apply for Extra Help: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp. Also check the Wyoming Medication Donation Program for available medications: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/pbm/medication-donation-program/
Q: How do I report elder abuse in Wyoming?
- A: If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. To report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult, see Adult Protective Services guidance at DFS: https://dfs.wyo.gov
Q: Where do I apply for SNAP and LIEAP?
- A: DFS handles both. Start here for program info and applications: https://dfs.wyo.gov. LIEAP program portal: https://www.lieapwyo.org/
Q: Are my Social Security benefits taxed by the state?
- A: Wyoming has no state personal income tax. For general tax information, see the Wyoming Department of Revenue: https://revenue.wyo.gov
Q: Is there a property tax refund for seniors?
- A: Wyoming’s Property Tax Refund Program is open to eligible homeowners during a set application window each year. Check requirements and apply at: https://wptrs.wyo.gov and see general info at: https://revenue.wyo.gov
Q: How do I get a ride to the doctor?
- A: If you have Medicaid, check the Medicaid transportation page and follow current rules for ride scheduling or mileage reimbursement: https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/. If not, call 2-1-1 for local senior transit options: https://wyoming211.org
Q: Who helps if I have a problem in a nursing home?
- A: The Long-Term Care Ombudsman helps residents and families resolve issues. Contact through the Aging Division: https://health.wyo.gov/aging/
Q: Where can I get help appealing a benefits denial?
- A: Legal Aid of Wyoming offers free or low-cost help in civil matters: https://www.lawyoming.org/. For Medicare, SHIP can guide you through appeals: https://www.shiphelp.org
Q: I’m a Native elder on or near Wind River. Do I apply differently?
- A: You may receive care through IHS and tribal health programs, but you can also apply for state and federal benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, and LIHEAP. For IHS Wind River info: https://www.ihs.gov/billings/healthcarefacilities/windriver/. For state benefits: https://dfs.wyo.gov and https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
Checklists you can use today
- Documents checklist:
- Government ID, Social Security number
- Proof of Wyoming address
- Income proof (SSA award letter, pension, pay stubs)
- Bank statements (last 2–3 months)
- Medical bills and prescriptions (for Extra Help/waivers)
- Property tax bill or mortgage (if applying for property tax refund)
- Application order:
- SNAP and LIEAP
- Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs
- Medicaid (ABD/CCW) if needed
- OAA services via Aging Division
- Housing applications (multiple waitlists)
- Follow-up:
- Mark renewal dates on a calendar (SNAP, Medicaid, property tax refund)
- Open mail and respond within deadlines
- Keep copies of everything you submit
Handy program comparison (at a glance)
| Need | Best first stop | Why | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food | SNAP via DFS | Fastest ongoing help with groceries. | https://dfs.wyo.gov |
| Energy | LIEAP + Weatherization | Cuts bills now and later. | https://www.lieapwyo.org/ and https://dfs.wyo.gov |
| Prescriptions | Extra Help + WY Medication Donation | Lowers copays and may provide free meds. | https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp and https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/pbm/medication-donation-program/ |
| In-home care | CCW (Medicaid) + OAA services | Brings care to you; stack programs if needed. | https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/ and https://health.wyo.gov/aging/ |
| Medicare advice | SHIP | Free, unbiased counseling. | https://www.shiphelp.org |
| Abuse/fraud | APS + SMP | Protection and fraud prevention. | https://dfs.wyo.gov and https://acl.gov/SMP |
Key official links (bookmark these)
- Wyoming Department of Health (Medicaid): https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
- Wyoming Aging Division (senior services): https://health.wyo.gov/aging/
- Wyoming Department of Family Services (SNAP, LIEAP, APS): https://dfs.wyo.gov
- Wyoming Property Tax Refund portal: https://wptrs.wyo.gov
- Wyoming 2-1-1: https://wyoming211.org
- Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov
- Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov
- SHIP (choose Wyoming): https://www.shiphelp.org
- HUD Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov
- USDA Section 504 (WY): https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/wy
- VA Aid & Attendance: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
- IHS Wind River Service Unit: https://www.ihs.gov/billings/healthcarefacilities/windriver/
Disclaimer
Program details, eligibility rules, funding levels, forms, and application windows change. This guide is for general information. Always confirm the latest requirements with the agency or program linked in each section. Nothing here is legal, tax, medical, or financial advice.
About This Guide
by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team
The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.
Our Commitment to You:
• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance 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.
