Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Georgia

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box (keep this handy)

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Emergency help first

If you or someone you care for is in immediate danger, call 911.

• Abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation: Call Georgia Adult Protective Services via the DHS Aging line at 1-866-552-4464 (follow prompts). Source: Georgia DHS Division of Aging Services
• Behavioral health crisis: Call the Georgia Crisis & Access Line at 1-800-715-4225. Source: DBHDD – Access Services
• No food tonight: Call 211 for nearest pantry, or contact your Area Agency on Aging for emergency meals. Sources: 2‑1‑1, Find your Area Agency on Aging
• Power shutoff or no heat: Ask your local Community Action Agency about LIHEAP crisis assistance. Start at Georgia LIHEAP or call 211.
• Nowhere to sleep: Contact your local shelter network via 211 and the HUD Georgia resources page. If you are a veteran, you can also ask for VA homeless services through the VA at 1‑877‑4AID‑VET.

Reality check:

• It’s normal to hit phone trees and wait times. If you can, call early morning, keep notes of dates/times, and ask for a call-back or a supervisor when needed.
• If you’re turned away, ask for “written denial” and “appeal rights.” Many programs must tell you how to appeal.

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What this guide covers and how to use it

This is a Georgia‑specific, plain‑language guide for seniors with disabilities and their families. It points you to official programs, how they work, who to call, and how to apply. Use the tables to scan options, then follow the step‑by‑step tips. Links go straight to government or well‑established program pages.

Key Georgia agencies:

• Georgia DHS Division of Aging Services (DAS) and the Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ADRC): aging.georgia.gov and ADRC overview
• Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) for Medicaid and waivers: dch.georgia.gov/medicaid
• Georgia Gateway (apply for many benefits): gateway.ga.gov

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Health coverage and care options in Georgia

Staying covered and finding the right support is the foundation. Start here.

Georgia Medicaid for seniors and people with disabilities

Medicaid can pay for doctor visits, hospital care, nursing homes, and—in many cases—services that keep you at home.

• Aged, Blind and Disabled (ABD) Medicaid: Income/resource‑based coverage. Apply through Georgia Gateway. Info: Georgia Medicaid
• Nursing Home (Institutional) Medicaid: Covers nursing facility care for eligible members. Info: Georgia Medicaid Long-Term Services
• Elderly and Disabled Waiver Program (EDWP): Lets eligible people get in‑home/community services instead of nursing homes. In Georgia, EDWP includes the Community Care Services Program (CCSP) and SOURCE. Info: CCSP overview (Georgia DAS) and DCH Waivers
• Money Follows the Person (MFP): Helps you move from an institution back to the community with supports. Info: Georgia MFP

Reality check:

• EDWP/CCSP/SOURCE often have waitlists. Get on the list as early as you can and keep your contact info current with your Area Agency on Aging.
• You’ll need medical documentation to show you need help with daily activities. Talk to your doctor about forms and care plans.

Medicare and help with Medicare costs

• Medicare is federal health insurance (generally age 65+, or under 65 with qualifying disability). Start at Medicare.gov.
• Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) help pay Medicare premiums and sometimes deductibles/copays if your income is limited. Learn more at Medicare’s MSP page. In Georgia, you apply through DFCS using Georgia Gateway or contact your local DFCS office.
• Free counseling: Georgia’s SHIP gives unbiased help choosing plans and checking savings programs. See: Georgia SHIP

Tip: Bring your Medicare card, list of medicines, and your monthly income info to a SHIP session for the best help. They can screen you for Extra Help (Part D) too. Source: Medicare Extra Help

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

If you have Medicaid and no reliable ride to covered appointments, you may be eligible for NEMT. Brokers and processes can change, so always check the state page: Georgia Medicaid Non-Emergency Transportation

Tip: Schedule rides early. Ask your clinic to note when you’re done so the return ride is not delayed.

Assistive technology and equipment

• Tools for Life (Georgia’s Assistive Technology Program) offers device loans, demonstrations, and reuse/exchange. Source: Tools for Life (Georgia Tech)
• Medicare/Medicaid coverage for Durable Medical Equipment (DME) varies by item and medical need. Ask your doctor to write a medical necessity order and work with a participating supplier. Sources: Medicare DME overview, Georgia Medicaid

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Health coverage and care programs at a glance

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In‑home support, caregivers, adult day, and protection

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and state-funded services

Your AAA is your front door to many services: home-delivered meals, homemaker help, personal care, respite, caregiver training, minor home mods, and more. Georgia coordinates this through the ADRC network. Source: Georgia ADRC

• Ask to be screened for Medicaid waivers (CCSP/SOURCE) and for state-funded Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) if you do not yet qualify for Medicaid.
• If there’s a waitlist, ask about short‑term services or alternatives.

Caregiver support and respite

Family caregivers can get counseling, training, and respite breaks through AAAs (often funded by the National Family Caregiver Support Program). Start with your AAA: Find your AAA

Tip: Tell the AAA if caregiving is affecting your health or work. That can raise priority for respite services.

Adult day health and supervision

Adult day health centers offer supervised care, social activities, and sometimes health monitoring during the day. Some are covered under CCSP/SOURCE. Ask your AAA and your Medicaid care manager for referrals. Sources: CCSP services, Georgia Medicaid

Protecting your rights

• Report abuse/neglect/exploitation to APS: 1-866-552-4464 (follow prompts). Source: APS – Georgia DAS
• Issues in nursing homes/assisted living: Contact the Georgia Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
• Suspect Medicare fraud or abuse: Contact the Georgia Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP).

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Food and nutrition

Main options in Georgia

• SNAP (Food Stamps): Monthly funds on an EBT card to buy groceries. Apply via Georgia Gateway. Program info: Georgia SNAP
• Home-delivered and community meals: Offered through your AAA. Ask about special diets and waitlists. Source: Georgia ADRC/AAAs
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Monthly shelf-stable food package for low‑income adults age 60+. Contact the state CSFP agency listed under Georgia: USDA CSFP State Contacts
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal produce coupons in some areas; availability varies by county. Check the Georgia listing: USDA SFMNP State Contacts

Reality check:

• SNAP amounts and CSFP slots change each year. If you’re denied, check if deductions (like high medical costs) were counted. You can appeal. Source: Georgia SNAP

Food and nutrition programs at a glance

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Income, disability benefits, and money management

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): For seniors and people with disabilities with limited income/resources. Info and applications: SSI at SSA.gov
• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): For people disabled before full retirement age with prior work credits. Info: SSDI
• Representative payee: If managing money is hard, SSA can appoint a payee to help. Info: Rep Payee program
• Social Security overpayments: If SSA says you were overpaid, you can ask for a waiver or repayment plan. Info: Overpayments

Note: Some community groups can help fill SSA forms. Check 211 or Eldercare Locator.

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Housing, home repair, and utilities

Keeping housing and staying safe at home

• GeorgiaHousingSearch.org: State-supported rental search with filters for senior and accessible units. Source: GeorgiaHousingSearch.org
• HUD Georgia: Public housing, Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8), and Section 202 senior housing info. Source: HUD Georgia
• Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA): State housing programs and links to local administrators. Source: DCA – Housing

Home repair and weatherization:

• USDA Section 504 Home Repair (grants/loans): For low-income homeowners; grants available for age 62+ to remove hazards. Source: USDA Rural Development – Home Repair and USDA RD Georgia
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free energy-saving repairs for eligible households. Georgia’s program info: GEFA – Weatherization Assistance

Property taxes:

• Homestead exemptions and senior/disabled veteran property tax relief vary by county. Start at the state overview and then call your county tax assessor. Sources: Georgia DOR – Homestead Exemptions and GDVS – Property Tax Exemptions for Veterans

Utilities:

• LIHEAP (heating/cooling help, including crisis help): Georgia LIHEAP
• Weatherization (see above) lowers bills long‑term.
• Lifeline (phone/internet discount): Check eligibility and participating providers. Sources: FCC Lifeline and Georgia PSC – Lifeline

Reality check:

• Section 8 and senior housing waitlists open and close. Check periodically and sign up for alerts from your local housing authority or DCA.
• Bring IDs, proof of income, and a list of needed accessibility features when applying.

Housing and utilities programs at a glance

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Transportation

• Medicaid Non‑Emergency Transportation (NEMT): See Georgia Medicaid NET
• ADA Paratransit: If you live near fixed-route transit, you may qualify for door‑to‑door service (e.g., MARTA Mobility in metro Atlanta). Check your local transit: MARTA Mobility or use the GDOT directory to find local providers: Georgia DOT Transit
• Area Agency on Aging: Some regions offer senior ride vouchers or volunteer driver programs. Ask your AAA: Find your AAA

Transportation options at a glance

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Legal help and advocacy

• Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Resident rights in nursing homes/assisted living. Source: Georgia Ombudsman
• Georgia Legal Services Program (GLSP): Free civil legal help outside metro Atlanta; elder law, benefits issues, housing, and more. Source: GLSP
• Atlanta Legal Aid Society: Free civil legal help in metro Atlanta; includes elder law and disability cases. Source: Atlanta Legal Aid
• Fair housing and discrimination: File housing discrimination complaints with the state or HUD. Sources: Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity – Fair Housing and HUD Fair Housing

Legal and advocacy at a glance

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How to apply: step-by-step

Use Georgia Gateway wherever possible. It saves time and lets you track status.

1. SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs

• Go to Georgia Gateway and create an account (or log in).
• Pick the program you need: SNAP, Medicaid (ABD), or Medicare Savings Programs.
• Upload documents: photo ID, proof of Georgia address, proof of income (award letters, pay stubs), bank statements (for Medicaid), and medical bills (for SNAP medical deduction).
• Interview or screening: Answer calls from DFCS; call back if you miss it. Keep case numbers handy.
• Decision and EBT/Medicaid card: Watch your mail and portal messages.

2. CCSP/SOURCE (EDWP)

• Call your Area Agency on Aging. Ask for an “Options Counseling” and EDWP screening. Source: ADRC/AAA
• Gather medical info: doctor’s notes, hospital discharge summaries, list of daily help you need.
• If placed on a waitlist, ask for written confirmation, an estimated wait time, and if state-funded HCBS can help during the wait.

3. LIHEAP

• Check program dates (usually seasonal) and make an appointment with your local Community Action Agency. Source: Georgia LIHEAP
• Bring your utility bill, photo ID, Social Security numbers for household members, and proof of income.

4. Housing

• Check HUD Georgia and your local housing authority for open waitlists. Use GeorgiaHousingSearch.org for current listings.
• For home repairs, contact USDA RD Georgia about Section 504 grants/loans; ask your AAA about minor home mods.

5. Medicare help

• Make a free appointment with Georgia SHIP. Bring your red/white/blue Medicare card, any Advantage/Part D cards, list of drugs, and your income info to check for savings programs.

Tip: Keep a “benefits folder” with copies of ID, Social Security card, Medicare/Medicaid cards, award letters, bank statements (last 2–3 months), lease or mortgage, utility bills, and medical bills. It speeds up every application.

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Inclusive resources and guidance

LGBTQ+ seniors

• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline offers support and referrals: 1-877-360-LGBTQ (1-877-360-5428). Source: SAGE
• Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP, housing, and AAA services are for all who meet eligibility, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. If you face discrimination, report it: HUD Fair Housing and HHS Office for Civil Rights.

Tips:

• If you have a chosen family caregiver, bring a copy of your health care proxy/power of attorney to medical visits. Free help is available via legal aid: GLSP or Atlanta Legal Aid.

Veteran seniors

• Aid & Attendance/Housebound (VA pension add-on) can help pay for in‑home care or assisted living for eligible veterans/spouses. Source: VA Aid & Attendance
• Get free claims help from the Georgia Department of Veterans Service (GDVS). Source: GDVS
• State veterans nursing homes (Augusta and Milledgeville): Eligibility and referrals via GDVS. Source: Georgia War Veterans Homes

Tip: Bring your DD-214 (discharge papers) to any benefits appointment.

Tribal/Native seniors

Georgia does not have federally recognized tribes within the state. Native seniors living in Georgia who are enrolled in federally recognized tribes elsewhere may access services through the Indian Health Service (IHS) network and tribal programs where eligible. For regional guidance, contact the IHS Nashville Area Office (covers the eastern U.S.). Source: IHS Area Offices

Also check with your AAA for culturally sensitive services and transportation options: Georgia ADRC/AAAs

Rural seniors and families

• Transportation: Use your AAA to ask about volunteer driver programs, rural transit, and Medicaid NEMT. Source: Georgia ADRC, GDOT Transit
• Health care: Ask your clinic about telehealth visits. Medicare and Georgia Medicaid cover many telehealth services. Source: Medicare Telehealth
• Home repairs: Rural homeowners age 62+ may qualify for USDA Section 504 grants to remove hazards. Source: USDA Section 504
• Food access: Ask your AAA about home‑delivered meals and check local CSFP distribution sites via USDA CSFP contacts.

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Resources by region: Georgia Area Agencies on Aging

Use your AAA as your first stop. They know the local providers, waitlists, and shortcuts. If you’re not sure which AAA serves you, use the state finder here: Find your AAA (Georgia ADRC)

Note: Website structures may change. If a link doesn’t load, use the state finder linked above.

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Documents you’ll likely need (save this list)

Tip: If you don’t have a document (e.g., birth certificate), ask the agency for acceptable alternatives. They may accept a combination of documents.

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Realities, timelines, and appeals

• Waitlists happen (especially for CCSP/SOURCE and senior housing). Ask where you are on the list, how often they contact people, and what to do if your situation worsens.
• Missed calls can cause delays. Add known agency numbers to your phone contacts, and use voicemail.
• Appeal deadlines are short. If you get a denial, read the last page carefully for how and when to appeal.
• Keep copies of everything you submit. If you mail forms, use tracked mail.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I get help paying my Medicare Part B premium in Georgia?

• Apply for a Medicare Savings Program (QMB, SLMB, or QI) through Georgia Gateway or ask Georgia SHIP to screen you. Program rules are set by Medicare and administered by the state. Source: Medicare MSPs

2. What’s the difference between CCSP and SOURCE?

• Both are part of Georgia’s Elderly and Disabled Waiver Program (EDWP). CCSP focuses on in‑home and community services to avoid nursing home care. SOURCE adds stronger care management for people with complex medical needs. Sources: CCSP – Georgia DAS, DCH Waivers

3. Is there a waiting list for CCSP/SOURCE?

• Often yes. It varies by region and funding. Get on the list early through your AAA and keep your phone number/address updated. Source: Georgia ADRC/AAAs

4. I need a wheelchair ramp. Who can help pay for it?

• Ask your AAA about minor home modification programs and whether CCSP/SOURCE can cover it. Rural homeowners 62+ can ask USDA about Section 504 repair grants. Sources: CCSP, USDA Section 504

5. How do I report elder abuse in Georgia?

• Call 1-866-552-4464 and follow prompts for Adult Protective Services, or report to law enforcement if urgent. Source: APS – Georgia DAS

6. I can’t drive. Can Medicaid get me to my doctor?

• If you have Medicaid and no other ride, ask for Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). Schedule through the state’s broker listed here: Georgia Medicaid NET

7. Where can I get help choosing a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan?

• Georgia SHIP offers free, unbiased counseling. Make an appointment: Georgia SHIP

8. My power is about to be shut off. What can I do?

• Ask your utility for a payment arrangement and apply for LIHEAP crisis aid if available. See: Georgia LIHEAP and call 211.

9. Does Georgia have PACE (Program of All‑Inclusive Care for the Elderly)?

• Availability has been limited historically and may change. Check with your AAA for current options in your county. Source: Georgia ADRC/AAAs

10. I’m a veteran. Can the VA help me with assisted living or in‑home care?

• The VA’s Aid & Attendance or Housebound benefits can help pay for care if you qualify. Contact GDVS for free claims help. Sources: VA Aid & Attendance, GDVS

11. I live in a rural county. How do I find rides and meals?

• Start with your AAA for local senior rides and home‑delivered meals. Also ask about Medicaid NEMT and check GDOT’s rural transit directory. Sources: Georgia ADRC, GDOT Transit

12. Where do I apply for SNAP and Medicaid in Georgia?

• Use Georgia Gateway to apply, upload documents, and check your status. Program info: SNAP, Medicaid

13. I’m in a nursing home but want to go home. Is there help?

• Ask about Money Follows the Person (MFP) to transition back to the community with supports. Source: Georgia MFP

14. Who can help me if my Medicare bill looks wrong?

• Call the provider to ask for an itemized bill, then contact Georgia SHIP or the Senior Medicare Patrol. Sources: Georgia SHIP, Georgia SMP

15. Where can I find official senior housing?

• Search state-supported listings at GeorgiaHousingSearch.org and check HUD Georgia for public housing, HCV, and senior properties.

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Resource links (official and well‑established sources)

• Georgia benefits portal: Georgia Gateway
• Georgia Department of Human Services – Division of Aging Services: aging.georgia.gov
• Georgia ADRC (find AAAs and options counselors): ADRC overview
• Georgia Medicaid (DCH): dch.georgia.gov/medicaid
• Medicaid Non‑Emergency Transportation: NET info
• CCSP (EDWP) overview: CCSP – DAS
• DCH waivers (EDWP, MFP): DCH Waivers
• Georgia SHIP: Medicare counseling
• Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): Georgia SMP
• Social Security (SSI, SSDI, Extra Help): ssa.gov
• Medicare general info: medicare.gov
• SNAP: Georgia SNAP
• CSFP (state contacts): USDA CSFP contacts
• SFMNP (state contacts): USDA SFMNP contacts
• LIHEAP: Georgia LIHEAP
• Weatherization: GEFA WAP
• Housing and rentals: HUD Georgia, GeorgiaHousingSearch.org
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman: georgiaombudsman.org
• Legal help: Georgia Legal Services Program, Atlanta Legal Aid
• Fair Housing: GCEO Fair Housing, HUD FHEO
• Veterans: GDVS, VA Aid & Attendance
• Assistive technology: Tools for Life
• Georgia DBHDD crisis services: Access Services
• 2‑1‑1: Find help via 211
• Eldercare Locator: eldercare.acl.gov
• FCC Lifeline: Lifeline program
• Georgia PSC – Lifeline: State info on Lifeline

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Final tips to save time

• Start with your AAA. They can triage needs and connect you to the right door faster than calling around yourself: Find your AAA
• Use Georgia Gateway for multiple programs at once: gateway.ga.gov
• Keep a single folder with copies of your key documents and a notebook for call notes.
• If you move or change phone numbers, tell every program you’re on—especially if you’re on a waitlist.

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Disclaimer

Program rules, amounts, providers, and contact details can change. Always verify details with the official agency or program website linked in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, or medical advice.

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About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

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

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

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.
• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.