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Last updated: 21 September 2026
Denver seniors can get help with food, rent, heating bills, Medicare costs, dental care, transportation, and support at home. Most programs are benefits, rebates, services, or housing assistance rather than cash grants. This guide shows where to start and what to try next.
Bottom Line
For food, cash, and medical benefits, start with Colorado PEAK or call Denver Human Services at 720-944-4DHS (4347). For aging, disability, care, meals, and local referrals, call the Denver Regional Council of Governments Area Agency on Aging at 303-480-6700. If housing is the urgent problem, check Denver rent help and Denver Housing Authority deadlines first.
Urgent Help and September Deadlines
Rent crisis: Denver’s current Temporary Rental and Utility Assistance (TRUA) portal says there are no open calls today, September 12. The next listed opening is Tuesday, September 15, 2026. The portal also says a household may apply only when it has a current Demand for Rent or an active eviction case. Funding is not guaranteed. Check the TRUA application portal before the opening date.
Housing voucher lottery: Denver Housing Authority says its 2027 Housing Choice Voucher lottery will accept online entries for only 48 hours, from September 17 through September 18, 2026. DHA also says it did not select names from the 2025 or 2026 lotteries because of limited federal funding and may not be able to select names from the 2027 lottery. Entering the lottery is free and does not guarantee a voucher. See the DHA voucher lottery.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. For food, shelter, utility, or other urgent referrals, call 2-1-1 or use 2-1-1 Colorado. To report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an at-risk adult in Denver, call 720-944-3000.
Start Here
- Choose the most urgent problem. Rent, food, heat, health care, dental care, or in-home support should come before less urgent paperwork.
- Use the right entry point. Denver Human Services handles food, cash, and medical applications. DRCOG helps older adults and people with disabilities navigate local services.
- Keep proof. Save notices, upload confirmations, names of workers, dates of calls, and copies of every document you send.
| Need | Best first step | What to ask | Reality check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food, cash, Medicaid | Denver Human Services | Ask about SNAP, Old Age Pension, Health First Colorado, and application status. | You may need an interview or more proof. |
| Rent or eviction | Denver rent help | Ask whether TRUA is open and whether your notice meets current rules. | Funding and openings are limited. |
| Aging or care help | DRCOG information help | Ask about meals, care options, benefits, transportation, and caregiver support. | The agency may refer you to a partner. |
| Food today | Food Bank finder | Check today’s hours, ID rules, and pickup options. | Schedules can change. |
| Medicare costs | County benefits office | Ask for QMB, SLMB, or QI screening. | 2026 limits changed. |
What Has Changed
- TRUA now uses scheduled openings. The current portal lists September 15 as the next application date and requires a current Demand for Rent or active eviction case.
- DHA has a two-day voucher window. The 2027 lottery opens September 17-18, 2026, and limited funding may mean no names are selected.
- LEAP is between seasons. Colorado says the 2026-27 heating-help season begins November 1, 2026. The one-person monthly income limit listed for that season is $3,774.
- Medicare Savings Program limits changed. Colorado’s 2026 resource limit is $11,450 for one person and $17,910 for a couple for QMB, SLMB, and QI-1. The 2026 income figures also rose effective April 1.
- Federal benefit rules changed. Denver Human Services posted updated SNAP and Medicaid information on September 10, 2026. Some people age 60-64 and some noncitizens may face new rules, so use the city’s benefits changes page if those rules may affect you.
Cash, Food, and Tax Help
Old Age Pension
Colorado’s Old Age Pension (OAP) is state cash assistance for eligible Colorado residents age 60 or older. The Colorado Department of Human Services lists the total OAP grant standard as $1,032 per month, effective January 1, 2026. Other income can reduce the payment. The state also lists a resource limit of $2,000 for an unmarried person and $3,000 for a married person. Review the OAP program rules before relying on an older amount.
Where to apply: Use PEAK or Denver Human Services. OAP is not the same as Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The county may require you to pursue other income for which you may qualify.
SNAP Food Assistance
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can add grocery money to an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Older adults and people with disabilities can have special deduction rules, including certain out-of-pocket medical costs. Save receipts for prescriptions, Medicare premiums, dental care, glasses, and medical transportation. If the first benefit amount seems too low, ask whether allowed medical expenses were counted.
Because federal rules changed in 2026, do not assume an old SNAP rule still applies. Denver Human Services can screen your household. For a Colorado-focused explanation, see our Colorado SNAP guide.
Property Tax, Rent, and Heat Rebate
Colorado’s Property Tax, Rent, and Heat (PTC) Rebate can help some lower-income older residents who paid property tax, rent, or heating costs. For the 2025 claim, the Colorado Department of Revenue says income must be under $19,094 for a single filer or $25,788 for a married couple filing jointly. A qualifying person must also have lived in Colorado for all of 2025 and be age 65 or older by December 31, 2025, or be a qualifying surviving spouse age 58 or older.
The 2025 rebate can be up to $1,178. The state application book says the claim can be filed through December 31, 2027, although filing earlier can mean earlier payment. Use the 2025 PTC booklet for the current rules. Our Colorado tax relief guide explains other senior property-tax paths.
Housing and Utility Help
Denver Rent Help
TRUA is Denver’s local program for eligible renters facing a housing crisis. The current application portal says applicants must have a current Demand for Rent or an active eviction case when they apply. The portal lists monthly opening dates through December 2026 and warns that funding is not guaranteed. If September 15 has passed when you read this, use the portal to check the next opening instead of assuming applications are continuously open.
If you have court papers, a rent demand, or a landlord deadline, save every page. Ask whether you also need a ledger, lease, proof of hardship, income, and identification. If eviction is close, contact legal help while seeking rental assistance.
Vouchers and Subsidized Housing
Denver Housing Authority (DHA) runs Housing Choice Vouchers and subsidized housing. The 2027 voucher lottery is open only September 17-18, 2026. DHA says it may not be able to select names because of limited federal funding. A lottery entry is therefore a long-term housing step, not an emergency plan.
DHA also has property and site-based waiting lists. Its subsidized housing page says some applicants may wait six to twelve months before reaching the packet stage. Apply to suitable lists, keep your address current, and continue other benefit applications while you wait. Our Colorado housing guide covers options outside Denver too.
Heating and Electric Bills
Colorado’s Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) is seasonal. The state says the 2026-27 season begins November 1, 2026 and ends April 30, 2027. For that season, the listed maximum gross monthly income is $3,774 for a one-person household and $4,936 for two people. The amount of help varies with income, fuel, and heating costs. See the current LEAP page.
Outside LEAP season, call 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435) and ask about other options. Energy Outreach Colorado says its assistance for Xcel bills is currently closed and is scheduled to reopen through partner agencies on October 1, 2026. Check current energy assistance before visiting an agency. Homeowners with repair needs can also review our Colorado repair guide.
Health, Medicare, Dental, and In-Home Care
Health First Colorado
Health First Colorado is Colorado’s Medicaid program. Applications can be made through PEAK, by phone, or with county help. The Member Contact Center is 1-800-221-3943. People who have Medicare can still qualify for Medicaid or a Medicare Savings Program, so Medicare coverage by itself is not a reason to skip screening.
Federal Medicaid rules changed in 2026, with additional changes scheduled for 2027. If you are age 60-64, a noncitizen, or helping someone whose eligibility recently changed, confirm the current rule before acting. If coverage is denied or ended, the state says Health First Colorado eligibility appeals generally must be filed within 60 days of the Notice of Action. Review the Medicaid appeal rules promptly.
Medicare Savings Programs
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) can help people with limited income and resources pay Medicare costs. In Colorado, the 2026 income limits effective April 1 are $1,350 for one person and $1,824 for a couple for QMB; $1,616 and $2,184 for SLMB; and $1,816 and $2,455 for QI-1. Colorado’s 2026 resource memo sets the QMB, SLMB, and QI-1 resource limit at $11,450 for one person and $17,910 for a couple. These figures replace the older 2025 amounts still shown on some consumer pages.
Income and resource counting can be more complicated than the table suggests, especially if you work. Do not screen yourself out without asking the county. The 2026 income memo and 2026 resource memo are the better references for current numbers. Our Colorado MSP guide explains QMB, SLMB, QI, and QDWI in plain language.
In-Home Care and EBD
The Elderly, Blind, and Disabled (EBD) waiver can help eligible people receive long-term services in the community instead of a nursing facility. Colorado rules require nursing-facility level of care. For the aged group, a person must be age 65 or older and meet the functional and financial rules. Services can include personal care, homemaker help, home-delivered meals, home modification, and other supports when authorized.
This is not instant home care. Financial eligibility, a functional assessment, case management, and provider availability can all slow the process. Call DRCOG at 303-480-6700 for options counseling. Its Aging Disability Resource Center serves Denver and surrounding counties. If a family member is providing regular care, our Colorado caregiver guide explains possible paid-care routes.
Dental Care
The Colorado Dental Health Care Program for Low-Income Seniors helps eligible adults age 60 and older who have low income and do not have another dental health program such as Health First Colorado or private dental insurance. State rules define economic disadvantage as income at or below 250% of the current federal poverty guideline. The program works through qualified grantees and providers, so openings and services can vary.
Ask the provider what it can do now, what copay may apply, and whether it is accepting new Senior Dental Program patients. Our Colorado dental guide lists safer dental-help routes.
| Program | Current fact | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| OAP | $1,032 grant standard | Other income can reduce payment. |
| PTC rebate | Up to $1,178 for 2025 claim | Income and age rules apply. |
| TRUA | Next listed opening: Sept. 15 | Portal is not continuously open. |
| DHA voucher | Sept. 17-18 lottery | Only a 48-hour entry window. |
| LEAP | Opens Nov. 1 | Heating aid is seasonal. |
| MSP resources | $11,450 / $17,910 | Older 2025 figures are stale. |
Dollar amounts are program standards or caps, not guaranteed payments.
Transportation, Legal Help, and Safety
RTD Discount Fares
Regional Transportation District (RTD) discount fares apply to seniors age 65 or older, people with disabilities, Medicare recipients, and LiVE customers. In 2026, RTD lists a $1.35 three-hour discount pass, $2.70 day pass, and $27 monthly pass. Proof of eligibility is required. Check RTD discount fares before buying a pass.
Legal Help
Colorado Legal Services can help eligible people with public benefits, evictions, and other civil legal problems. Its public-benefits guidance tells readers to keep notices, save proof of documents submitted through PEAK, and ask about hearings when they disagree with a benefit decision. Call 303-837-1313 or use public benefits help.
For a broader Denver-area starting point, DRCOG can also connect older adults to legal and advocacy resources. Our Colorado aging agencies guide can help if you are assisting someone outside Denver.
Scam warning: Do not pay anyone to enter the DHA voucher lottery or to “guarantee” a public benefit. Do not give your Medicare number, EBT card details, Social Security number, or bank information to an unexpected caller. Hang up and call the official office yourself.
Documents to Gather
- Photo identification and proof of Denver or Colorado residence.
- Social Security, pension, veteran, wage, or other income records.
- Recent bank statements when a program has a resource test.
- Lease, rent ledger, Demand for Rent, eviction papers, or utility notices.
- Medicare and Health First Colorado cards, when applicable.
- Medical expense receipts for SNAP screening.
- Property tax, rent, and heat records for PTC applications.
- Letters showing denial, closure, reduction, or a deadline.
Do not send original documents unless the agency specifically requires them. Keep a copy or photo. When uploading through an online portal, save the confirmation screen.
Reality Checks
- Housing help can be slow. Voucher and subsidized-housing lists are not emergency shelter.
- Funding can close. TRUA, dental grants, and utility programs can limit help even when you meet basic rules.
- One application is not enough. SNAP, OAP, Medicaid, TRUA, LEAP, PTC, and housing programs have separate decisions.
- Old web pages can be stale. The 2026 MSP resource memo is newer than some public pages that still show 2025 numbers.
- Eligibility is individual. Income, resources, household size, immigration category, disability status, and program year can change the result.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing short openings: Put September 15 and September 17-18 on your calendar if those programs fit your situation.
- Ignoring a notice: A letter may contain an appeal date or request for proof.
- Using last year’s limits: OAP, MSP, LEAP, and tax figures can change.
- Assuming “grant” means cash: Many programs pay a landlord, utility, provider, or reduce a cost instead.
- Waiting on one program: Use food banks, 2-1-1, legal help, and utility payment options while a formal application is pending.
Phone Scripts
Denver benefits
“I live in Denver and I am age ____. I need help with food, cash, or medical costs. Can you tell me which benefits I should apply for, what documents are missing, and whether I have any deadline?”
Rent crisis
“I have a Demand for Rent or eviction case. Is TRUA accepting applications for my situation now? What documents do I need, and what should I do if I cannot get assistance before my court or rent deadline?”
Medicare costs
“I have Medicare and limited income. Please screen me for QMB, SLMB, and QI using the current 2026 income and resource limits. What proof do you need from me?”
In-home support
“I am age ____ and need help staying safely at home. Can you explain which in-home services or Medicaid waiver options may fit, what assessment is required, and who starts the application?”
Denied, Delayed, or Overwhelmed
Read the notice before calling. Write down the reason, date, deadline, and office named on the letter. Ask whether the problem can be fixed by submitting missing proof or whether you need a formal appeal.
For Health First Colorado, the state says eligibility appeals generally must be requested within 60 days of the Notice of Action. Other programs use different deadlines, so follow the notice for your case. Colorado Legal Services may be able to help with benefits or housing problems.
If a program is closed, ask the worker for the next opening date and a backup route. For urgent statewide help beyond Denver, our Colorado emergency guide lists other starting points.
Backup Options
- Call DRCOG at 303-480-6700 for aging and disability navigation.
- Call Denver Human Services at 720-944-4DHS (4347) for food, cash, and medical benefits.
- Use Food Bank of the Rockies while SNAP is pending.
- Call 1-866-432-8435 for heating-emergency referrals outside the LEAP application season.
- Call Colorado Legal Services at 303-837-1313 when a denial, eviction, or benefits deadline is serious.
| Office | Phone | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Denver Human Services | 720-944-4347 | Food, cash, medical benefits |
| DRCOG Aging | 303-480-6700 | Aging, care, meals, referrals |
| Health First Colorado | 1-800-221-3943 | Medicaid questions |
| Food Bank Rockies | 303-375-5851 | SNAP outreach and food |
| Colorado Legal Services | 303-837-1313 | Benefits and housing legal help |
| Denver Adult Protection | 720-944-3000 | Abuse, neglect, exploitation |
Resumen en Español
Si usted es una persona mayor en Denver y necesita ayuda, empiece con Colorado PEAK o Denver Human Services para SNAP, Medicaid y Old Age Pension. Para ayuda con servicios para personas mayores, cuidado en casa, comidas o transporte, llame a DRCOG al 303-480-6700.
Hay dos fechas importantes en septiembre de 2026. El portal de TRUA muestra una próxima apertura el 15 de septiembre para hogares que cumplen las reglas actuales. La lotería de vales de vivienda de Denver Housing Authority abre solamente el 17 y 18 de septiembre. La entrada a la lotería no garantiza un vale.
LEAP vuelve a aceptar solicitudes para ayuda de calefacción el 1 de noviembre de 2026. Si recibe una carta de denegación o reducción de beneficios, no la ignore. Revise la fecha límite y pida ayuda rápidamente si necesita apelar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should a Denver senior start?
For food, cash, or medical benefits, start with Colorado PEAK or Denver Human Services at 720-944-4347. For aging, disability, care, meals, transportation, or local service navigation, call DRCOG at 303-480-6700.
Is Denver rent help open now?
As of September 12, 2026, the TRUA portal says there are no open calls. It lists the next opening for September 15, 2026. The portal says applicants must have a current Demand for Rent or an active eviction case, and funding is not guaranteed.
When is the DHA voucher lottery?
Denver Housing Authority says the 2027 Housing Choice Voucher lottery opens online September 17-18, 2026, for 48 hours. Entering is free, but it does not guarantee a voucher, and DHA says limited funding may prevent selections.
How much is OAP in 2026?
Colorado lists the 2026 Old Age Pension grant standard at $1,032 per month. Other income can reduce the payment. The listed resource limit is $2,000 for an unmarried person and $3,000 for a married person.
What are 2026 MSP limits?
Colorado’s 2026 QMB income limit is $1,350 per month for one person and $1,824 for a couple. SLMB is $1,616 and $2,184, and QI-1 is $1,816 and $2,455. The 2026 resource limit for QMB, SLMB, and QI-1 is $11,450 for one person and $17,910 for a couple.
When does LEAP reopen?
Colorado says the 2026-27 LEAP season begins November 1, 2026 and ends April 30, 2027. Outside the season, call 1-866-432-8435 and ask about heating-emergency or other utility assistance.
About This Guide
Sources: This guide uses official federal, state, local, and other high-trust nonprofit and community sources linked in the article.
Editorial note
This guide is produced under the GFS Editorial Standards using official and other high-trust sources. GFS is not affiliated with a government agency and is not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Corrections
Despite careful verification, errors may occur. Readers may email info@grantsforseniors.org with corrections.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, medical, tax, disability-rights, immigration, or government-agency advice. Program rules, policies, funding, and availability can change. Readers should confirm current details directly with the responsible official program before acting.
Last updated: 21 September 2026 · Next review: 21 January 2027
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