Grants for Seniors in Seattle

Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Seattle, Washington: The 2026 Authority Guide

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated:

If You Need Emergency Help (Start Here)

Key Takeaways

Quick Help at a Glance (Seattle/King County)

Need Program (official info) Who it helps How to apply
Health coverage Apple Health (Medicaid) – WA Health Care Authority Low/moderate income seniors and people with disabilities Apply via Washington Healthplanfinder or HCA
Medicare guidance SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) Anyone with Medicare Call 1‑800‑562‑6900 or visit SHIBA – OIC
In‑home help Community First Choice (CFC); MAC/TSOA – ALTSA Seniors needing help with daily tasks; caregivers Learn and connect via ALTSA Long‑Term Services & Supports
Food Basic Food (SNAP) – DSHS Low‑income households Apply via Washington Connection
Utility bills Seattle Utility Discount Program Seattle residents who meet income limits Apply at Utility Discount Program
Heat/electric LIHEAP – WA Commerce Low‑income households Find your local LIHEAP at Commerce LIHEAP
Housing vouchers Seattle Housing Authority; King County Housing Authority Very low‑income renters See Seattle Housing Authority and KCHA
Property taxes Senior/Disabled Property Tax Exemption/Deferral 61+ or disabled, within income limits Start at WA Dept. of Revenue and your County Assessor
Medical rides Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) – HCA Apple Health members Find broker at HCA NEMT
Legal help CLEAR Senior Line – NW Justice Project Washingtonians age 60+ Call 1‑888‑387‑7111 or see NJP Get Legal Help

Reality check: Expect waitlists for housing and in‑home services. Respond to all mail, keep copies of applications, and ask your AAA for help with forms.

Getting Personalized Help (Seattle/King County)

  • Area Agency on Aging & Information & Assistance (AAA/I&A): In Seattle/King County, the front door to aging services is Community Living Connections. They explain your options, screen for benefits, and help with applications (Medicaid, meals, home care, caregiver support).
  • Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs): Offer unbiased options counseling and referrals. In King County, these are integrated with Community Living Connections.
  • Tip: Gather documents before you call: ID, Social Security card, Medicare/insurance cards, proof of income, recent bank statements, lease/utility bills, and medical documents if applying for care supports.

Healthcare, Medicare, and Long‑Term Care

Apple Health (Medicaid) for Seniors and People with Disabilities

Reality check: Financial and medical eligibility are detailed and change over time. If you’re slightly over income, ask about “spenddown,” Qualified Income Trusts (Miller Trusts), and spousal impoverishment protections. Your AAA or SHIBA can explain.

Free Medicare Counseling (SHIBA)

  • SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) offers unbiased help with plan comparisons, billing problems, and savings programs (Extra Help/Part D and Medicare Savings Programs).
  • Contact: 1‑800‑562‑6900 or visit SHIBA – Office of the Insurance Commissioner

In‑Home Care and Supports (ALTSA)

  • Community First Choice (CFC): In‑home personal care (bathing, dressing, meal prep), personal emergency response systems, and limited assistive technology for eligible Apple Health members. Learn more: CFC – ALTSA
  • Medicaid Alternative Care (MAC): Supports unpaid caregivers (like spouses or adult children) of a person who would otherwise qualify for Medicaid long‑term care. Respite, training, and supplies. Details: MAC – ALTSA
  • Tailored Supports for Older Adults (TSOA): For adults 55+ who are not on Medicaid but need help to stay at home. Provides a budget for services like respite and personal care. Info: TSOA – ALTSA
  • Apply and get a case manager via Home & Community Services (HCS): Find HCS Offices

Tip: In Seattle, ask Community Living Connections to screen you for CFC, MAC, and TSOA and to coordinate with your providers.

Transportation to Medical Care

  • Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): If you have Apple Health, you may qualify for rides (bus, taxi, wheelchair van, ferry, and in some cases air travel) to covered medical visits. Find your regional broker: HCA NEMT

Prescription Savings

  • ArrayRx Discount Card (no cost): Washington’s multi‑state program offering prescription discounts. Enroll here: ArrayRx Discount Card

Dental Care

Table: Health and Long‑Term Care Programs (Seattle/King County)

Program What it does Who it’s for Where to learn/apply
SHIBA Free Medicare counseling and plan help Anyone with Medicare SHIBA (OIC)
Apple Health (Medicaid) Medical, dental, vision, prescriptions; possible long‑term supports Low/moderate‑income seniors & disabled HCA, Healthplanfinder
Community First Choice (CFC) In‑home personal care, emergency response, assistive tech Apple Health members needing help with daily tasks CFC – ALTSA
MAC / TSOA Supports for unpaid caregivers; services for older adults not on Medicaid Adults 55+ and caregivers ALTSA Programs
NEMT Rides to covered medical appointments Apple Health members HCA NEMT
ArrayRx Prescription discounts (free card) Anyone ArrayRx

Money, Food, and Basic Needs

Basic Food (SNAP)

  • What it provides: Monthly grocery help via an EBT card accepted at most grocery stores and many farmers markets.
  • How to apply: Use Washington Connection or learn more at DSHS Basic Food
  • Tip: Seniors often qualify even with a small pension or Social Security. Medical costs may be deducted—tell DSHS about recurring medical expenses.

Senior Nutrition Programs

Cash Assistance (limited/situation‑specific)

  • Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) cash assistance: Modest monthly benefit for adults likely to meet federal disability criteria; often paired with a Housing and Essential Needs (HEN) referral. Learn more: DSHS ABD Cash Assistance
  • HEN Referral Program (if referred by DSHS): Rent/utility help and essentials for adults unable to work for 90+ days. Info and providers: Commerce – HEN Program
  • Reality check: ABD and HEN have limited funding. Expect waitlists or caps. Keep all letters from DSHS and respond quickly.

Table: Food and Basic Needs (Seattle/King County)

Support What it provides Where to apply
Basic Food (SNAP) Monthly EBT for groceries Washington Connection (Apply)
Meals on Wheels Home‑delivered meals for eligible seniors Sound Generations – Meals on Wheels
Senior meal sites Free/low‑cost meals in the community Community Living Connections (Find sites)
SFMNP Seasonal produce coupons WSDA – Program Overview
Emergency food Food banks and pantries Northwest Harvest – Find Food or Food Lifeline – Find Help

Housing, Rent Help, and Home Repairs (Seattle/King County)

Rental Help and Eviction Defense

  • Coordinated Entry: The main way to access homeless services (shelter, rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing). Access via 2‑1‑1 or see: Commerce – Homelessness Help
  • Eviction Right to Counsel (low‑income tenants): Call 1‑855‑657‑8387 and visit OCLA – Eviction Right to Counsel
  • Local rent help: COVID‑era statewide rental programs have ended, but some city/county and nonprofits still offer aid when funds are available. Call Washington 211 for current openings.

Reality check: Funding changes month to month. Apply quickly when a program opens, and have documents ready (ID, lease, past‑due notice, proof of income).

Subsidized Housing and Vouchers

  • Seattle Housing Authority (SHA): Public housing and Housing Choice Vouchers. Many programs have long waitlists and periodic openings. Check: Seattle Housing Authority
  • King County Housing Authority (KCHA): Serves many suburban and unincorporated areas in King County. See: KCHA
  • Directory of housing authorities statewide: WA Housing Authorities Association

Tip: Create an email account you check often. Housing authorities announce openings online and by email. Keep your contact info updated with them.

Property Tax Relief for Homeowners

  • Senior/Disabled Property Tax Exemption and Deferral: State programs run through county assessors. Start here: WA Dept. of Revenue – Senior/Disabled Exemption
  • Contact your County Assessor for King County’s application, help with forms, and income thresholds.

Home Repairs and Weatherization

  • Weatherization Assistance Program (WA Commerce): Free energy upgrades like insulation, air sealing, and heating system repairs for eligible households. Learn more: Commerce – Weatherization
  • LIHEAP (heat/electric assistance): May include emergency heating repairs. Find your local agency: Commerce – LIHEAP
  • USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Rural Development): Grants up to $10,000 for essential health/safety repairs for very low‑income homeowners age 62+. Details (WA): USDA – Section 504 Home Repair (WA)
  • Rebuilding Together (free critical home repairs for qualified homeowners): Rebuilding Together Seattle

Reality check: These programs are competitive and may take time. Apply early, answer calls, and be flexible with contractor scheduling.

Table: Housing and Home Repairs – Key Options

Program Key points Where to apply
Coordinated Entry Doorway to shelter and rehousing programs Call 2‑1‑1 (WA 211)
Eviction Right to Counsel Free legal help for low‑income tenants OCLA – Right to Counsel
Housing authorities Public housing and vouchers (expect waitlists) Seattle Housing Authority, KCHA
Property Tax Exemption/Deferral Reduces or defers property taxes for seniors/disabled WA Dept. of Revenue – Senior/Disabled Exemption
Weatherization & LIHEAP Free energy upgrades and help with heating bills Commerce – Weatherization, LIHEAP
USDA Section 504 Grants/loans for health/safety home repairs (62+) USDA – WA Section 504
Rebuilding Together Free critical home repairs Rebuilding Together Seattle

Utilities, Phone, and Internet

  • Seattle Utility Discount Program (UDP): Can reduce electric, water, sewer, and garbage bills for income‑qualified Seattle residents (including seniors). Apply: Seattle Utility Discount Program
  • LIHEAP (heat/electric): Apply via your local agency to help with energy bills. Find your provider: LIHEAP – WA Commerce
  • Weatherization (long‑term energy savings): Weatherization – WA Commerce
  • Lifeline (FCC): Monthly discount on phone or broadband for low‑income households. Check eligibility/apply: Lifeline Support – Do I Qualify?
  • Internet discounts after ACP: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program ran out of funding in 2024. Ask your provider about low‑cost plans for seniors/low‑income customers and combine with Lifeline if eligible.

Tip: If you live outside Seattle but within King County (and use Puget Sound Energy or another utility), check your utility’s assistance pages in addition to LIHEAP.

Table: Utility and Communications Discounts

Support What it covers Where to apply
Seattle Utility Discount Program Discounts on electric, water/sewer, garbage Seattle UDP
LIHEAP Heating/electric bill help; emergency assistance Commerce – LIHEAP
Weatherization Free energy‑saving upgrades Commerce – Weatherization
Lifeline Phone/broadband discount Lifeline – Qualify
Local utility plans Utility‑specific discounts & payment plans Check your provider’s assistance page

Transportation and Mobility

  • Regional Reduced Fare Permit (RRFP): Discounted fares for riders age 65+ on transit in the Puget Sound region (buses, Link light rail, Sounder; some ferries). Info: RRFP – Sound Transit
  • ADA Paratransit (King County Metro Access): Door‑to‑door rides for eligible riders unable to use fixed‑route transit. Apply through King County Metro’s Access program.
  • Medical rides: Apple Health NEMT (see Healthcare section above).

Tip: Ask Community Living Connections about volunteer driver programs and community shuttles in your neighborhood.

Safety, Legal Help, and Consumer Protection

Reality check: If you get a lawsuit or eviction notice, deadlines are short. Call the legal helpline immediately—do not wait.

Inclusive Resources

Veterans and Military Families

  • Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA): Free claims help (VA Pension, Aid & Attendance), counseling, and state veterans homes. Main page: WDVA. Claims help: WDVA – Claims Assistance
  • VA Aid & Attendance/Housebound: Extra monthly payment if you need help with daily activities. Learn more: VA – Aid & Attendance
  • County Veterans Assistance Fund: Emergency help with rent, utilities, and essentials for eligible veterans—apply through your county veterans office. Ask WDVA or call 2‑1‑1 for the nearest office.

Tip: VA decisions can be slow. Keep medical records organized and work with a WDVA service officer.

LGBTQ+ Seniors

  • GenPride (Seattle/King County): Classes, support groups, referrals, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ older adults. GenPride – Seattle
  • Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Advocates for residents’ rights, including LGBTQ+ issues: WA Ombudsman
  • Anti‑discrimination: Washington law protects against discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations. Learn more: WA State Human Rights Commission

Seniors with Disabilities

Tribal and Urban Native Elders

  • Title VI Native American Aging Programs: Tribally run nutrition and caregiver support. Find programs via your tribal government or the ACL locator: Older Indians – ACL Locator
  • Seattle Indian Health Board (urban Indian health services): Seattle Indian Health Board
  • Indian Health Service and Tribal Health Clinics: Indian Health Service
  • BIA Housing Improvement Program (HIP): Critical home repairs for eligible tribal members. BIA – HIP

Tip: You can often combine Title VI meals with local senior meal sites. Ask your tribal elder program and Community Living Connections.

Rural Seniors and Limited‑Access Areas (King County’s outer communities)

  • Use 2‑1‑1 and your AAA to find volunteer driver programs, dial‑a‑ride, mobile food pantries, and traveling clinics.
  • Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) can arrange long‑distance rides and ferry/air when medically necessary: HCA – NEMT
  • USDA Section 504 and Weatherization can be especially helpful for rural homeowners (see links above).

Resources by Area (Seattle/King County)

Taxes, Money Management, and Benefits Checkups

Transportation Tips for Seattle Seniors

  • Consider RRFP if you ride buses, Link, or Sounder even a few times a month—it pays for itself quickly. Info: RRFP – Sound Transit
  • If standing at stops is a challenge, ask your doctor or social worker whether you qualify for ADA paratransit and get help with the application through Community Living Connections.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: I have Medicare. Can I also get Apple Health (Medicaid) to help with costs?
A: Yes, if you meet financial rules. Apple Health can help pay Medicare premiums (Medicare Savings Programs) and may cover services Medicare doesn’t. Get unbiased help from SHIBA and learn about Apple Health here: HCA – Apple Health

Q: What is the fastest way to find open rent or utility assistance in Seattle?
A: Call 2‑1‑1. Operators match your ZIP code to current programs. For energy bills, also contact your local LIHEAP agency via Commerce – LIHEAP. For Seattle utilities, apply to the Utility Discount Program.

Q: Is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) still available?
A: No. ACP ran out of funding in 2024. Ask your internet provider about low‑cost plans and apply for Lifeline if you qualify.

Q: How do I get help to stay in my home instead of moving to a facility?
A: Ask your AAA (Community Living Connections) about CFC, TSOA, and MAC. If you may qualify for Medicaid long‑term services, contact Home & Community Services for an assessment: ALTSA Resources

Q: I need a ride to the doctor. What are my options?
A: If you have Apple Health, use NEMT through your regional broker: HCA NEMT. If not, ask about RRFP, ADA paratransit, volunteer drivers, or community shuttles via Community Living Connections.

Q: Where can I get affordable dental care?
A: Apple Health covers adult dental. Find providers: HCA Dental Services. Also consider Dental Lifeline Network – WA if you are medically fragile or disabled.

Q: I’m a veteran. Who will help me file for benefits?
A: The Washington Department of Veterans Affairs provides free claims assistance: WDVA – Claims Assistance. You can also call 2‑1‑1 to find county veterans services.

Q: What should I do if I get a suspicious phone call asking for money or gift cards?
A: Hang up and report it to the Washington Attorney General: WA AGO – File a Complaint. If you shared personal info, consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus.

Q: Where can I find current statistics about seniors in Washington?
A: See the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey (table S0101) for Washington state: ACS 2023 – Washington Age Data

Sources and Official References

Disclaimer

Programs, eligibility rules, and funding can change. Always confirm details with the agency or organization linked in this guide before applying. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, 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 know that seeking financial assistance can be stressful. This guide aims to be clear and practical, breaking down complex topics into steps you can take.

While we work hard to keep information accurate, program details and eligibility requirements can change. Always check with the official program source or agency website for the most current information—we are not an official agency but compile available resources.

  • Last Updated: December 2025
  • Sources Verified: December 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 make a real difference.

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About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.