Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Michigan
Last updated: August 2025
Quick Help Box (Emergency First)
If you’re in danger or need urgent help, start here.
- Life-threatening emergency: Call 911
- Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult in Michigan (24/7): 855-444-3911. Learn more at the Michigan Adult Protective Services page: Report vulnerable adult abuse to MDHHS
- Mental health or suicide crisis (24/7): Call or text 988, or use chat at 988 Lifeline
- Find emergency shelter, food, transportation, or local help: Call 2-1-1 or visit Michigan 2-1-1
- Facing eviction, a utility shutoff, or foreclosure: Apply for State Emergency Relief (SER) through MI Bridges
- Domestic and sexual violence support: Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 or TTY 800-787-3224, and find Michigan programs via the Michigan Domestic & Sexual Violence Prevention and Treatment Board
- Homelessness assistance and prevention: Contact your local Housing Assessment and Resource Agency (HARA) via the MSHDA HARA directory
Reality check: Emergency programs can run out of funds or have waiting lists. If you can’t get through, keep trying and contact multiple resources (2-1-1, your local Area Agency on Aging, and any applicable nonprofits). Document every call and message.
How to Use This Guide
- Who it’s for: Michigan residents age 60+ with a disability (or caregivers), including people on fixed incomes or with chronic conditions.
- What you’ll find: Michigan-specific programs, how to apply, what to expect, and realistic tips to avoid delays.
- What you’ll need: Basic ID, proof of Michigan residency, income and asset details, and medical documentation when asked.
- Where to apply: Most state benefits go through MI Bridges: Apply or check benefits at MI Bridges
Table of Contents
- Emergency Help (today/this week)
- Cash, Income, and Financial Relief
- Health Coverage and Long‑Term Services
- Food and Nutrition Programs
- Housing, Home Repairs, and Utilities
- Transportation and Mobility
- Assistive Technology, Hearing & Vision Support
- Work, Training, and Caregiver Support
- Legal Help and Advocacy
- Inclusive Resources: LGBTQ+, Veterans, Tribal, Rural
- Resources by Region (find local help fast)
- FAQs
- Resources (official links)
- Disclaimer
- About This Guide
1) Emergency Help: What to do first
- Apply for urgent aid (rent, utilities, home repairs, burial/cremation): State Emergency Relief (SER) via MI Bridges. Program details at MDHHS Assistance Programs. SER requires documentation and has payment limits. If denied, appeal quickly and talk with 2-1-1 about alternatives.
- Energy shutoff: Call your utility right away and ask about shutoff protections and assistance. Review Michigan rules for medical emergencies, critical care customers, and the Winter Protection Plan at the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) shutoff protections. Ask your doctor’s office for medical certification if applicable.
- Eviction or foreclosure: Apply for SER and get legal help via Michigan Legal Help for step-by-step forms and referrals. If you are a veteran, also call the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) 24/7 Hotline at 800-MICH-VET (800-642-4838).
- No food today: Call 2-1-1 and ask for a food pantry. Also apply for SNAP (Food Assistance Program) via MI Bridges. Seniors may also qualify for home-delivered meals via your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) — find yours through the Eldercare Locator or the state’s aging services portal at MDHHS Aging & Adult Services.
- Unsafe at home or caregiver burnout: Call Adult Protective Services at 855-444-3911. For care options and respite, contact the Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) or your local AAA.
2) Cash, Income, and Financial Relief
Michigan has a mix of federal, state, and local programs. Use MI Bridges for most state benefits and SSA for federal benefits.
Key programs (what they are and how they help)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- What it is: A federal benefit for people with low income/resources who are 65+ or disabled.
- What it covers: Monthly cash for basic needs. Michigan also provides some state supplementation for certain living arrangements.
- How to apply: Start at the Social Security Administration (SSA): SSI at SSA.gov.
- More on Michigan supplements: SSA state supplements – Michigan and SSA contact and office locator.
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- What it is: A federal benefit for people who worked and paid into Social Security but can’t work due to disability.
- What it covers: Monthly benefit based on your work history. At full retirement age, SSDI converts to retirement benefits.
- How to apply: SSDI at SSA.gov.
- State Disability Assistance (SDA) – Michigan
- What it is: State cash assistance for adults with disabilities who have very low income/resources and meet other criteria.
- What it covers: Small monthly cash benefit and help with basic needs.
- How to apply: Through MI Bridges. Program information under MDHHS Assistance Programs.
- Veterans benefits (pension, Aid & Attendance)
- What it is: Federal VA benefits for wartime veterans and surviving spouses. Aid & Attendance adds money if you need help with daily activities.
- What it covers: Monthly cash, with higher amounts if you need a caregiver or are housebound.
- How to apply/get help: VA Pension and Aid & Attendance. For free claims help, contact the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) or your County Veteran Service Office (find via MVAA).
- Property tax and heating credits (Michigan)
- Homestead Property Tax Credit: Refund of part of your property taxes or rent (for renters). See the Michigan Department of Treasury: Homestead Property Tax Credit.
- Home Heating Credit: Helps low-income households with heating costs. Details and forms: Home Heating Credit (HHC). These are claimed on Michigan tax forms; you can file the heating credit even if you don’t owe taxes.
- Food assistance
- SNAP (Food Assistance Program): Monthly grocery benefits on a Bridge Card. Apply via MI Bridges. Program overview at MDHHS Food Assistance.
- Emergency help (short-term)
- State Emergency Relief (SER): One-time help for rent, utilities, and more. Apply via MI Bridges. Overview at MDHHS Assistance.
- Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP): Seasonal energy help; funding can run out. See MPSC MEAP.
Table: Cash and Income Programs (where to apply)
| Program | What it helps with | Where to apply | Official info |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSI | Monthly cash for very low-income seniors/disabled | SSA (online/phone/in-person) | SSI at SSA.gov |
| SSDI | Monthly cash based on work history | SSA | SSDI info |
| State Disability Assistance (SDA) | Small state cash benefit | MI Bridges | MDHHS Assistance Programs |
| VA Pension & Aid and Attendance | Extra cash if you need daily help | VA or through MVAA/CVSO | Aid & Attendance, MVAA |
| Property Tax Credit | Refund based on taxes/rent | Michigan tax return | Homestead Credit |
| Home Heating Credit | Heating costs | Michigan tax form HHC | Home Heating Credit |
Reality check: Cash programs like SSI/SSDI can take months from application to decision. If you’re waiting, ask SSA about presumptive benefits (SSI) and check whether SDA or SER can help in the meantime. Keep copies of every document you submit.
3) Health Coverage and Long‑Term Services
Medicaid (Michigan)
- What it is: Health coverage for low-income adults, including people who are aged, blind, or disabled. It can cover doctor visits, hospital care, personal care at home, and long-term care if you qualify.
- Where to start: Overview at MDHHS Medicaid. Apply via MI Bridges.
- Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs): If you have Medicare but low income, Medicaid may pay your Medicare Part B premium and possibly other costs. See MDHHS Medicare Savings Programs.
- Estate Recovery: If Medicaid pays for long-term care services, the state may seek repayment from your estate after death (with exceptions). Read the Michigan Medicaid Estate Recovery information before you sign paperwork.
MI Choice Waiver (Home- and Community‑Based Services)
- What it is: Medicaid program that helps you receive long-term services at home or in community settings (like adult foster care or home for the aged), instead of a nursing home.
- What it provides: Personal care, homemaking, respite, adult day services, home modifications, and more.
- How to apply: Contact your local waiver agency (often your Area Agency on Aging). Learn about the program at MDHHS – MI Choice Waiver.
- Reality check: MI Choice often has waiting lists. Ask about interim services (Home Help, AAA services, PACE, veteran programs) while you wait.
Home Help Program (Personal Care at Home)
- What it is: Michigan’s state program (through MDHHS) that pays for help with activities of daily living at home (bathing, dressing, meals, etc.) if you qualify based on need and financial criteria.
- How it works: After assessment, you may hire an approved caregiver. Some relatives may qualify as paid caregivers; check current provider rules.
- Where to start: See MDHHS Adult Services information within MDHHS Assistance Programs and ask your local MDHHS office about Home Help.
PACE (Program of All‑Inclusive Care for the Elderly)
- What it is: A team-based Medicare/Medicaid program for people 55+ who meet a nursing home level of care but want to live at home.
- What it provides: Primary care, medications, therapies, day center, personal care, transportation, and more in one program.
- How to learn/apply: See Medicare’s PACE overview and the PACE Association of Michigan for locations.
MI Health Link (Medicare‑Medicaid Plan for “duals”)
- What it is: An integrated plan for people who have both Medicare and Medicaid in certain Michigan counties.
- What it provides: One care plan, care coordination, long-term services and supports if eligible.
- Learn more and check counties: MDHHS – MI Health Link.
Transportation to Medical Care (Medicaid NEMT)
- If you have Medicaid and need a ride to covered appointments, you may qualify for non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). Contact your Medicaid health plan or your local MDHHS office. See MDHHS Medicaid – Getting Care for transportation details.
Medicare Help (free counseling)
- MMAP (SHIP in Michigan): Free, unbiased counseling on Medicare, Medigap, Part D, Advantage plans, MSPs, and Extra Help. Get help at MMAP, Inc. or via the Eldercare Locator.
Table: Health Coverage and Long‑Term Care Options
| Program | Who it helps | Key services | Where to learn/apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicaid (ABD) | Low-income seniors/disabled | Comprehensive medical, some LTC | MDHHS Medicaid, MI Bridges |
| Medicare Savings Programs | Low-income Medicare beneficiaries | Help with Medicare premiums/costs | MDHHS MSPs |
| MI Choice Waiver | Nursing home level of care, prefer home | In-home/community LTC services | MDHHS Medicaid – MI Choice |
| Home Help | Need help with daily tasks at home | Personal care/homemaking | MDHHS Assistance Programs |
| PACE | 55+, nursing home level, live at home | All-inclusive medical/LTSS | Medicare PACE, PACE Michigan |
| MI Health Link | Medicare + Medicaid (select counties) | Integrated care, care coordination | MDHHS MI Health Link |
Tip: Before choosing a plan, ask about your current doctors, medications, therapy providers, and wheelchair/oxygen vendors to avoid disruptions.
4) Food and Nutrition Programs
- SNAP (Food Assistance Program): Apply via MI Bridges. See MDHHS Food Assistance.
- Meals on Wheels and Congregate Meals: Provided through Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). Find your local AAA through Eldercare Locator or state aging services at MDHHS Aging & Adult Services.
- Senior Project FRESH/Market FRESH: Coupons for fresh produce at farmers markets for eligible older adults. See state program details at Michigan Market FRESH.
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP, “Senior Food Box”): Monthly shelf-stable foods for low-income seniors. See Michigan CSFP information at USDA CSFP contacts or ask 2-1-1 about local distribution.
Reality check: Meal programs can have waiting lists or limited delivery zones. Ask about grab-and-go meals, congregate meal sites, or pantry partners as backups.
5) Housing, Home Repairs, and Utilities
Rental help and homelessness prevention
- State Emergency Relief (SER): Crisis help with rent, security deposits, and utilities. Apply through MI Bridges. See MDHHS Assistance Programs.
- Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8): Long-term rental assistance administered by MSHDA and local housing agencies. Check status and guidance at MSHDA Housing Choice Voucher.
- Homelessness prevention and shelter access: Contact your local HARA via MSHDA HARA directory.
Home repairs and weatherization
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Energy-saving home improvements for eligible homeowners and renters. Learn more and find local providers via MDHHS Energy & Weatherization.
- USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Rural): Grants (for 62+) and loans for essential repairs, removal of health/safety hazards. See USDA Rural Development – Michigan.
- Ask your city/county: Some communities have home repair grants funded by state/federal programs. Call 2-1-1 to find local programs.
Property taxes and special exemptions
- Homestead Property Tax Credit: Michigan Treasury – Homestead Credit.
- Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption: 100% disabled service-connected veterans (and some surviving spouses) may qualify for a full property tax exemption. See Michigan Treasury – Disabled Veterans Exemption.
- Poverty Exemption (Property Tax): If income is very low, ask your local assessor about a hardship or poverty exemption. Guidance at Michigan Treasury – Poverty Exemption.
Utilities: heat, lights, water
- Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP): Annual energy help distributed through partner agencies. Learn more at MPSC – MEAP. Combine with SER if needed.
- Shutoff protections: Winter Protection Plan, Critical Care Customer, Medical Emergency Protections. See MPSC – Shutoff Protections and contact your utility.
- Home Heating Credit: Apply via Michigan tax form; see Home Heating Credit.
- Water bills: Assistance varies by city/utility. Ask your water provider about hardship programs. Detroit residents can review the DWSD Lifeline Plan.
Table: Housing and Utility Help at a Glance
| Need | First step | Program link |
|---|---|---|
| Behind on rent or utility shutoff | Apply for SER via MI Bridges | MI Bridges, MDHHS Assistance |
| Long-term rent help (voucher) | Check MSHDA HCV info | MSHDA Housing Choice Voucher |
| Homelessness prevention | Contact your local HARA | MSHDA HARA directory |
| Energy bill help | MEAP + SER | MPSC MEAP |
| Weatherization | Apply through local provider | MDHHS Energy/Weatherization |
| Property tax relief | File credits/exemptions | Michigan Treasury Credits |
Reality check: Section 8 waitlists can be closed for long periods. Ask about affordable housing managed by nonprofits or senior-designated apartments as a backup, and check county lists through 2-1-1 or MSHDA.
6) Transportation and Mobility
- Public transit and ADA paratransit: Find local bus and demand-response services via MDOT – Local Public Transit.
- MyRide2 (Southeast Michigan): Travel planning and ride coordination for older adults in many SE Michigan counties. See myride2.com.
- Medicaid NEMT: If on Medicaid, ask your plan or MDHHS about rides to covered medical appointments.
- Disability parking placard: Apply through the Secretary of State. See Michigan SOS – Disability Parking.
- Medicare coverage for mobility aids: Medicare Part B may cover walkers, wheelchairs, or scooters when medically necessary. See Medicare DME coverage.
Tip: If you live rurally, ask about volunteer driver programs through your AAA or local senior center. Schedule medical rides early; same-day trips are hard to secure.
7) Assistive Technology, Hearing & Vision Support
- Michigan Assistive Technology Program (MATP): Try-before-you-buy device demos/loans, reuse, and device information. Managed by Disability Rights Michigan. See Disability Rights Michigan – Assistive Technology.
- Centers for Independent Living (CILs): Peer support, skills training, advocacy, and device information. Find your local CIL via Disability Network Michigan.
- Michigan Relay (7-1-1): Relay services for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-disabled. See MPSC – Michigan Relay.
- Bureau of Services for Blind Persons (BSBP): Training, technology, and services for people who are blind or visually impaired. See BSBP.
- Lifeline (phone/internet discount): Federal Lifeline provides a monthly discount for eligible households. See FCC Lifeline. Ask your carrier about Michigan availability.
Reality check: Funding for device loans and reuse inventories can fluctuate. If a device isn’t available today, ask about waitlists or alternative vendors.
8) Work, Training, and Caregiver Support
- Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP): Paid part-time training for low-income job seekers 55+. Learn more via state aging services at MDHHS Aging & Adult Services or the U.S. DOL Older Workers page.
- Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS): For people with disabilities who want to work or return to work. See Michigan LEO – MRS.
- Family caregiver support: Area Agencies on Aging provide caregiver training, respite, and coaching. Find your AAA via the Eldercare Locator.
- Paying family caregivers: Depending on the program (Home Help, MI Choice, VA Aid & Attendance), some family members may be eligible to be paid caregivers. Rules vary by program. Ask MDHHS (Home Help), your waiver agency (MI Choice), or MVAA (veterans).
Tip: Keep a care notebook with diagnoses, medications, and recent hospital/ER discharges. It speeds up assessments for Home Help, MI Choice, and PACE.
9) Legal Help and Advocacy
- Michigan Legal Help: DIY forms and referrals for housing, benefits, and more. Visit Michigan Legal Help.
- Long Term Care Ombudsman (LTCOP): Advocates for residents of nursing homes and adult care facilities. Get help at the Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program.
- Disability Rights Michigan (DRM): Legal advocacy for people with disabilities. See DRM.
- Medicare/Medicaid fraud tips: Report suspected fraud through MMAP or federal hotlines listed on Medicare.gov.
Reality check: Legal services prioritizes urgent cases (evictions, unsafe discharges). Be clear about deadlines and bring all related notices to your appointment.
10) Inclusive Resources
LGBTQ+ seniors
- SAGE Metro Detroit: Programs, support, and advocacy serving LGBTQ+ older adults in metro Detroit. See SAGE Metro Detroit.
- Affirmations LGBTQ+ Community Center (Ferndale): Social groups, health navigation, and resources; check for older adult programming. See Affirmations.
- General benefits: Apply for state/federal programs regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. If you face discrimination, contact DRM: Disability Rights Michigan.
Tip: If you’re uncomfortable outing yourself to providers, seek LGBTQ+-competent referrals through SAGE, Affirmations, or your AAA.
Veteran seniors
- Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA): 24/7 assistance, connections to County Veteran Service Officers, and help with claims and benefits. Call 800-MICH-VET or visit MVAA.
- VA health and long-term care: Explore VA health enrollment, home- and community-based services, and Aid & Attendance at VA.gov.
- Property tax: Review the Disabled Veterans Exemption.
Tip: Use MVAA to prepare strong, well-documented claims and avoid delays.
Tribal-specific resources (Michigan)
- Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan: Public health and aging services coordination for Michigan tribes. See ITC of Michigan.
- Indian Health Service (IHS) – Bemidji Area: Tribal health services and referrals. See IHS Bemidji Area.
- Title VI Elder Nutrition Programs: Tribal congregate and home-delivered meals. Learn more at ACL – Tribal Nutrition and ask your tribal office.
Tip: If you’re American Indian/Alaska Native, ask your tribal program about Title VI services and how they coordinate with the local AAA for wrap-around support.
Rural seniors
- Transportation: Use MDOT Local Public Transit, AAA volunteer drivers, and Medicaid NEMT (if eligible).
- Home repair: Check USDA Rural Development – MI programs (Section 504 grants/loans).
- Internet/phone: The Affordable Connectivity Program has ended; ask about FCC Lifeline and local low-income plans. Check state broadband updates at the Michigan High-Speed Internet Office.
- Medical access: Ask your providers about telehealth options and mobile clinics. Your AAA may have loaner tablets or tech coaching through local partnerships.
11) Resources by Region (find local help fast)
Because phone numbers and coverage areas change, use these official directories to get the right office for your county.
Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)
- Find your local AAA by ZIP or county: Eldercare Locator or state aging services portal at MDHHS Aging & Adult Services
Homelessness and Housing Navigation
- Locate your Housing Assessment and Resource Agency (HARA): MSHDA HARA directory
Public Transit and Paratransit
- Local transportation providers: MDOT – Local Public Transit
Veterans
- County Veteran Service Offices via MVAA: Find veteran help – MVAA
Table: Key Portals and Directories
| Need | Statewide directory |
|---|---|
| Benefits applications (food, cash, health, SER) | MI Bridges |
| General state program info | MDHHS Assistance Programs |
| Aging services (AAA, meals, caregiver support) | MDHHS Aging & Adult Services |
| Medicare counseling (MMAP) | MMAP, Inc. |
| Housing crisis (HARA) | MSHDA HARA directory |
| Energy help and shutoff rules | MPSC Assistance & Protections |
| Legal self-help | Michigan Legal Help |
12) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What’s the fastest way to get help this week?
- Apply for State Emergency Relief (SER) through MI Bridges and call 2-1-1 to find local stopgaps (pantries, transportation, shelters). If utilities are at risk, call your utility and review MPSC shutoff protections. If you’re unsafe or facing neglect, call APS at 855-444-3911.
Q2: How do I check the status of my MI Bridges application?
- Log into MI Bridges. You can upload documents, read notices, and message your MDHHS worker there. If your account is locked or you can’t get online, ask a library, AAA, or family member to help.
Q3: Can Michigan pay a family member to help me at home?
- Possibly. The Home Help program and some Medicaid waiver services may allow certain relatives as paid caregivers. Rules and rates vary and can change. Ask MDHHS about Home Help and your waiver agency or PACE team if enrolled. Veterans can ask MVAA about Aid & Attendance.
Q4: Will Medicaid take my house?
- Michigan’s Estate Recovery program may seek repayment from your estate for certain Medicaid long-term care services, with many exceptions for surviving spouses and other protected situations. Read the MDHHS Estate Recovery page and consider legal advice before you sign.
Q5: Does MI Choice pay for assisted living?
- MI Choice can fund services in some licensed settings (like adult foster care or home for the aged), but not the room and board portion. Talk to your waiver agency about covered services and out-of-pocket costs. See MDHHS Medicaid.
Q6: I can’t drive anymore. What are my options?
- Check MDOT Local Public Transit for dial-a-ride or paratransit, ask your AAA about volunteer drivers, and see if you qualify for Medicaid NEMT. In SE Michigan, try myride2.com. For a disability placard, see Michigan SOS – Disability Parking.
Q7: How do I get home-delivered meals in Michigan?
- Call your local AAA via the Eldercare Locator or state aging portal. Ask about Meals on Wheels, eligibility, and any waitlists. Consider SNAP via MI Bridges and local pantries via 2-1-1 as backups.
Q8: I have both Medicare and Medicaid. Should I join MI Health Link?
- It depends on your county, doctors, and needs. MI Health Link can simplify coverage and coordinate services, but check your providers and medications first. Learn more at MDHHS – MI Health Link and consult MMAP for unbiased advice.
Q9: Are there special protections if I use electricity for medical equipment?
- Yes. Michigan’s Critical Care and Medical Emergency protections may prevent shutoff and require utility coordination. See MPSC shutoff protections and have your clinician complete necessary forms.
Q10: Where can I find a safe nursing home or home health agency?
- Compare ratings and inspection results on Medicare Care Compare. If you have concerns about care, contact the Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program.
13) Selected Michigan Program Tables
Table: Apply Online vs. By Phone
| Benefit | Best online portal | Phone/Help |
|---|---|---|
| Food, Cash, SER, Medicaid | MI Bridges | 2-1-1 for navigation |
| Medicare plan/cost help | — | MMAP |
| Social Security (SSI/SSDI) | SSA.gov | SSA: find local office via SSA locator |
| Veterans benefits | VA.gov | MVAA hotline: 800-MICH-VET |
Table: Long-Term Care at Home – Main Paths
| Path | Who runs it | Typical services |
|---|---|---|
| Home Help | MDHHS | Personal care, homemaker |
| MI Choice Waiver | MDHHS via local agencies | Personal care, respite, adult day, home mods |
| PACE | PACE organizations (Medicare/Medicaid) | Primary care, therapies, day center, transport |
Table: Utility and Energy Protections
| Protection | Who qualifies | Where to learn |
|---|---|---|
| Winter Protection Plan | Seniors and certain low-income households | MPSC Consumer Energy |
| Critical Care | Life-supporting medical equipment at home | MPSC – Shutoff Protections |
| Medical Emergency | Short-term medical crisis | MPSC – Shutoff Protections |
| MEAP + SER | Low-income energy assistance | MPSC MEAP, MDHHS SER |
14) Resources (official links)
Michigan portals
- Apply for benefits: MI Bridges
- Program overviews: MDHHS – Assistance Programs
- Adult Protective Services: MDHHS APS and hotline
- Aging & Adult Services, AAAs, caregiver support: MDHHS Aging & Adult Services
- Medicaid (ABD, MSP, waivers): MDHHS Medicaid
- MI Health Link (dual integration): MDHHS MI Health Link
- Estate Recovery: MDHHS Estate Recovery
Food and nutrition
- SNAP (Food Assistance Program): MDHHS Food Assistance
- Market FRESH (Senior coupons): Michigan Market FRESH
- CSFP (Senior food boxes): USDA CSFP Contacts
Housing and utilities
- HARA (homelessness navigation): MSHDA HARA directory
- Section 8 vouchers: MSHDA HCV
- Weatherization: MDHHS Energy/Weatherization
- Property tax credits: Homestead Credit
- Home Heating Credit: HHC
- Energy assistance/protections: MPSC Consumer Energy
- USDA Rural Development – MI: USDA RD Michigan
Transportation and mobility
- Local public transit: MDOT – Travel
- Disability parking: Michigan SOS – Disability Parking
- MyRide2 (SE Michigan): myride2.com
Health and caregiving
- MMAP (Medicare counseling): mmapinc.org
- PACE overview: Medicare – PACE, PACE Michigan
- Care Compare (nursing homes, home health): Medicare Care Compare
Income and veterans
- Social Security (SSI/SSDI): SSA.gov
- VA Pension and Aid & Attendance: VA.gov – Aid & Attendance
- Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency: MVAA
Assistive tech, hearing, vision
- Michigan Assistive Technology Program: Disability Rights Michigan – AT
- Disability Network Michigan (CILs): disabilitynetwork.org
- Michigan Relay: MPSC – Michigan Relay
- Bureau of Services for Blind Persons: BSBP
- FCC Lifeline: Lifeline
LGBTQ+, Tribal, legal
- SAGE Metro Detroit: sagemetrodetroit.org
- Affirmations: goaffirmations.org
- Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan: itcmi.org
- Michigan Legal Help: michiganlegalhelp.org
- Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman: mltcop.org
General help and crisis
- Michigan 2-1-1: mi211.org
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988lifeline.org
15) Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips
- Waiting lists happen: MI Choice, Meals on Wheels, and some repairs have waitlists. Ask about interim services, caregiver training, or emergency slots.
- Keep records: Save copies of applications, letters, and appeal deadlines. Use MI Bridges to upload documents quickly.
- Verify providers: Before joining a health plan, ask if your doctor, therapist, and pharmacy stay in-network.
- Watch for fees: Some “helpers” charge for applications that are free (Medicare plan changes, VA claims). Use MMAP and MVAA for free, unbiased help.
- Re-certify on time: Benefits can stop if you miss renewal dates. Put reminders on a calendar and ask family to help.
- Scams: No agency will ask for your full Social Security number or bank info by text or unsolicited email. When in doubt, call the official number from the agency website.
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.
Disclaimer
Programs, eligibility rules, amounts, and contact details can change at any time. This guide is for general information only and is not legal, financial, or medical advice. Always confirm details with the relevant agency using the official links provided.
