Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Missouri
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Last updated:
This practical guide was built for Missouri seniors living with disabilities and their families. It explains what help exists, how to qualify, and how to apply—using official, up‑to‑date sources you can trust. It also points out common roadblocks and how to handle them.
Quick Help Box (keep this handy)
If you are in crisis or need fast answers, start here.
| Need | Who to contact | How |
|---|---|---|
| Police/Fire/Medical emergency | 911 | Call now |
| Mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts | 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | Call or text 988, or visit the 988 website: https://988lifeline.org |
| Veterans in crisis | Veterans Crisis Line | Call 988 and press 1, or visit https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/ |
| Report abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult | Missouri Adult Abuse & Neglect Hotline | Call 1-800-392-0210 or report online via the Missouri DHSS page: https://health.mo.gov/safety/abuse/ |
| Find local help (food, housing, utility aid, transportation) | United Way 2‑1‑1 (Missouri) | Dial 2‑1‑1 or search at 211 Missouri: https://www.211helps.org/ |
| Apply for MO HealthNet (Medicaid), SNAP, LIHEAP | Missouri myDSS (Family Support Division) | Apply or check benefits: https://mydss.mo.gov/ |
| Medicare questions or plan counseling | Missouri SHIP (free, unbiased help) | Visit Missouri SHIP: https://missouriship.org or find your SHIP at https://www.shiphelp.org |
| Long‑term care complaints or resident rights | Missouri Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program | Learn and connect: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/ombudsman/ |
| Non‑emergency medical rides (Medicaid) | MO HealthNet Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) | How to schedule: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm |
Tip: If you’re not sure where to start, call your Area Agency on Aging (AAA). Find yours at the Missouri Association of Area Agencies on Aging (MA4) directory: https://www.ma4web.org/find-your-aaa
How to use this guide
- Start with “Emergency and immediate help” if you need support this week.
- Then go to “Health coverage and in‑home care” to set up ongoing care.
- Next, check “Money, taxes, and prescription savings” and “Food and nutrition.”
- Use “Transportation” and “Legal and safety” as needed.
- Don’t skip the “Inclusive support” section if you are a veteran, LGBTQ+, tribal citizen, or live in a rural county.
- Save the “Resources by region” and “FAQs” for quick references.
Emergency and immediate help (practical steps)
When money or health issues hit fast, these are the quickest routes to aid in Missouri.
- Food today
- Call 2‑1‑1 or visit https://www.211helps.org for the nearest pantry or hot meal site.
- Apply for SNAP (food stamps). Seniors with very low income and little cash on hand may qualify for “expedited” SNAP in as little as 7 days. Apply at Missouri myDSS: https://mydss.mo.gov/food-assistance
- Ask your Area Agency on Aging about home‑delivered meals and grab‑and‑go meals. Find your AAA: https://www.ma4web.org/find-your-aaa
- Utilities (heat/cooling)
- The Low‑Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can help with a one‑time payment and crisis help. Apply at myDSS: https://mydss.mo.gov/energy-assistance
- Weatherization can lower bills long‑term (insulation, air‑sealing). Learn about Missouri’s Weatherization Assistance Program: https://energy.mo.gov/assistance-programs/weatherization-assistance-program
- Medical rides
- If you have MO HealthNet (Medicaid), you can usually get Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) to doctor visits, dialysis, the pharmacy, and more. How to schedule: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm
- Housing crisis
- Dial 2‑1‑1 to get to your region’s Coordinated Entry system for homelessness services.
- If you’re a low‑income homeowner 62+ in a rural area, check the USDA Section 504 Home Repair program for emergency health/safety repairs: https://www.rd.usda.gov/mo
- Safety concerns
- Report adult abuse, neglect, or exploitation: https://health.mo.gov/safety/abuse/ (1‑800‑392‑0210).
- Concerns in a nursing home or assisted living facility? Contact the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/ombudsman/
Reality check: Benefits are not instant. Keep notes of who you talk to, dates, and what you were told. If you’re turned down, you can often appeal. Ask your AAA or a legal aid office for help with appeals.
Health coverage and in‑home care in Missouri
Missouri’s system includes Medicare, MO HealthNet (Medicaid), and state programs that help you remain at home.
Medicare and free counseling
- Most people 65+ have Medicare. Many disabled adults under 65 qualify for Medicare after 24 months on SSDI.
- Get free, unbiased help comparing Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D drug plans from Missouri SHIP: https://missouriship.org or via the national SHIP locator: https://www.shiphelp.org
Official Medicare info: https://www.medicare.gov
MO HealthNet for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (Medicaid)
MO HealthNet helps pay for doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, long‑term services, and more for seniors and people with disabilities who meet income/asset rules.
- Program overview: https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare/aged-blind-disabled
- Apply online or by paper: https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare
- Spend Down: If your income is over the limit, you may still qualify by meeting a monthly “spend down” (similar to a deductible). You can “pay‑in” or have medical bills count toward it. Learn more: https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare/spend-down
Warning: Rules change yearly and depend on your situation. If you’re unsure, ask your AAA or call Missouri SHIP to review how Medicare and MO HealthNet work together.
Home and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) and In‑Home Care
Missouri’s Division of Senior and Disability Services (DSDS) can authorize in‑home help to keep you safe at home, like personal care, homemaker, respite, adult day care, and the Consumer‑Directed Services (CDS) program (you hire and manage your attendant).
- Overview and how to request services: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/hcbs/
- Find providers (home care agencies, CDS vendors, adult day): Missouri Provider Search: https://healthapps.dhss.mo.gov/showmeprovidersearch/
How to start:
- Ask your doctor to document your functional needs and any safety concerns.
- Request an HCBS assessment by contacting DSDS through the HCBS information page above (online referral link available there), or ask your AAA to help refer you.
- Be ready to discuss daily tasks you struggle with (bathing, dressing, cooking, cleaning, shopping, mobility, memory).
- If approved, you can choose agency‑delivered services or CDS (where you pick and schedule your own attendants).
Reality check: There may be wait times for assessments or staffing shortages, especially in rural areas. If you can’t find attendants, ask your care coordinator about switching to another provider or CDS.
Medicaid Waivers you may see
Missouri operates several waivers that fund in‑home and community supports instead of nursing home care. The exact waiver depends on age and disability level. DSDS can help determine the right one.
- Learn about HCBS waivers (Aged and Disabled Waiver, Adult Day Care Waiver, and others): https://health.mo.gov/seniors/hcbs/
- PACE (Program of All‑Inclusive Care for the Elderly): Team‑based health care and long‑term services aimed at keeping you in the community. Missouri MO HealthNet PACE information and site listings: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/healthcare/pace.htm
Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
If you have MO HealthNet, you can usually get rides to covered medical appointments.
- How it works and how to schedule: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm
Tip: Book rides as early as possible and have your appointment details ready. If you use a wheelchair or have special needs, mention this when scheduling.
Behavioral health and memory care
- Call 988 for urgent mental health support. https://988lifeline.org
- MO HealthNet covers behavioral health services; ask your provider or see your MO HealthNet plan information. https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/
- For concerns about dementia safety or placement, contact your AAA for care options and caregiver support: https://www.ma4web.org/find-your-aaa
Estate recovery (important)
Missouri, like other states, may recover certain Medicaid costs from your estate after death, mainly for long‑term care services. Learn more at MO HealthNet Estate Recovery: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/estate-recovery/
Money, taxes, and prescription savings
Use these programs to reduce costs and stretch your budget.
At‑a‑glance: Money and prescription help in Missouri
| Program | What it helps with | Who it serves | Where to learn/apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) | Pay Medicare Part B premium and sometimes Medicare cost‑sharing | People with limited income/resources on Medicare | MO DSS MSP page: https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare/medicare-savings-programs |
| Extra Help (Part D LIS) | Lowers Part D premiums, deductibles, and drug copays | Medicare beneficiaries with limited income/resources | Apply with SSA: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/ |
| Missouri Rx Plan (MoRx) | Helps with Medicare Part D drug costs | Missourians with Medicare Part D (age 65+ or disabled) who meet rules | Program info and apply: https://morx.mo.gov/ |
| Property Tax Credit (“circuit breaker”) | Refund of part of real estate tax or rent paid | Eligible seniors and 100% disabled Missourians | MO Dept. of Revenue page: https://dor.mo.gov/taxation/individual/property-tax-credit/ |
| Senior property tax freeze (SB 190, county‑by‑county) | Freezes eligible seniors’ primary‑home property tax at a set level | Only in counties/cities that adopted it; eligibility varies | See the law (Section 137.1050, RSMo): https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=137.1050 then call your county assessor |
| LIHEAP (energy) | Utility bill payment and crisis help | Low‑income households | Apply at myDSS: https://mydss.mo.gov/energy-assistance |
| Weatherization Assistance | Home energy fixes to lower bills | Income‑eligible homeowners/renters | State program info: https://energy.mo.gov/assistance-programs/weatherization-assistance-program |
| Supplemental Nursing Care (SNC) | State cash benefit to help pay for care in certain facilities | Eligible Missourians in licensed care settings | Program info: https://mydss.mo.gov/elderly-disabled/supplemental-nursing-care |
Notes and reality checks:
- Income/resource limits for MSP, Extra Help, and Medicaid change yearly. Always confirm with the official program page or call Missouri SHIP for help.
- The Property Tax Credit and any county tax freeze are separate. You can ask about both.
- MoRx works with Medicare Part D. You must have a Part D plan to benefit. Program rules can change; check the official site.
SSI and SSDI
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are federal benefits; SSI may also open the door to MO HealthNet. Learn more at SSA: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/ and https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/
- If you’re denied, you can appeal. Legal aid often helps with appeals (see “Legal help” below).
Missouri ABLE (for those with disability onset before age 26)
MO ABLE accounts let eligible individuals save and pay for disability‑related expenses without losing key benefits. For some older adults whose disability began earlier in life, this can be useful. Learn more: https://www.moable.com/
Food and nutrition
- SNAP (Food Stamps): Apply at https://mydss.mo.gov/food-assistance. Seniors with very low income may qualify for expedited processing (as soon as 7 days).
- Home‑delivered or congregate meals: Funded by the Older Americans Act through your Area Agency on Aging. Find your AAA: https://www.ma4web.org/find-your-aaa
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Monthly food box for low‑income adults 60+. Missouri information: https://health.mo.gov/living/wellness/nutrition/csfp/
- Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal produce vouchers in many areas. See Missouri contact info via USDA: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/contacts (find Missouri).
Tip: When you apply for SNAP, claim medical expense deductions (prescriptions, copays, incontinence supplies, medical transport you pay for). This can raise your benefit. See myDSS: https://mydss.mo.gov/food-assistance
Transportation
Below are common, statewide and city options. Always confirm eligibility, service areas, and how far in advance you must book.
Transportation options overview
| Service | Where | What it is | How to use |
|---|---|---|---|
| MO HealthNet Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) | Statewide for MO HealthNet participants | Rides to covered medical appointments and pharmacies | Scheduling info: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm |
| OATS Transit | Statewide, especially rural counties | Public transportation with routes and demand‑response for seniors/people with disabilities | Learn routes and request rides: https://www.oatstransit.org/ |
| Metro Call‑A‑Ride (ADA paratransit) | St. Louis region | Curb‑to‑curb paratransit for people with disabilities who can’t use fixed‑route transit | Eligibility and booking: https://www.metrostlouis.org/metro-call-a-ride/ |
| RideKC Freedom (ADA paratransit) | Kansas City region | Door‑to‑door rides for eligible riders with disabilities | Info and scheduling: https://ridekc.org/mobility-services/ridekc-freedom |
| Area Agency on Aging ride programs | Many counties | Senior ride programs to medical and essential trips | Find your AAA: https://www.ma4web.org/find-your-aaa |
Reality check: Rural rides may be infrequent. Book early, ask about subscription rides for dialysis or regular therapy, and ask your clinic if they have transportation partners.
Housing, home repair, and accessibility
- Section 504 Home Repair (USDA): Grants and loans for very‑low‑income rural homeowners 62+ to remove health/safety hazards—like fixing a failing furnace or unsafe wiring. Missouri office: https://www.rd.usda.gov/mo
- Weatherization Assistance: Free energy‑saving fixes for renters and homeowners who qualify: https://energy.mo.gov/assistance-programs/weatherization-assistance-program
- Public housing and Housing Choice Vouchers: Contact your local public housing agency (PHA). HUD’s PHA contact list for Missouri: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
- Accessibility and assistive technology:
- Missouri Assistive Technology (MoAT): device loans, demonstrations, equipment reuse, and the Telecommunications Access Program (TAP) for adaptive phones and internet access tools. https://at.mo.gov/ and TAP overview: https://at.mo.gov/tap
- Home modification nonprofits: Rebuilding Together (St. Louis: https://rebuildingtogether-stl.org/; Kansas City: https://rebuildingtogetherkc.org/) can sometimes help with ramps and safety fixes.
Warning: Waitlists are common for home repairs. If something is dangerous (no heat in winter, unsafe ramp), explain the health risk when you apply and ask about emergency slots.
Legal help, safety, and advocacy
- Legal aid organizations (civil legal help, often at no cost if eligible):
- Legal Services of Eastern Missouri: https://lsem.org/
- Legal Aid of Western Missouri: https://lawmo.org/
- Mid‑Missouri Legal Services: https://www.mmls.org/
- Legal Services of Southern Missouri: https://www.lsosm.org/
- Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program (nursing homes/assisted living concerns): https://health.mo.gov/seniors/ombudsman/
- Report abuse, neglect, exploitation: https://health.mo.gov/safety/abuse/ (1‑800‑392‑0210)
- Facility search and inspection reports (“Show‑Me Long Term Care”): https://healthapps.dhss.mo.gov/showmelongtermcare/
- Background checks for in‑home workers: Missouri Family Care Safety Registry: https://health.mo.gov/safety/fcsr/
- Advance planning:
- Missouri Courts self‑help resources: https://www.courts.mo.gov
- The Missouri Bar (public information and forms): https://www.mobar.org/public/
Tip: If a facility threatens discharge or refuses readmission after a hospital stay, call the Ombudsman right away and request a written notice of discharge and appeal rights.
Missouri health and long‑term care programs at a glance
| Program | What it does | Who it serves | Where to learn/apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| MO HealthNet for Aged, Blind, and Disabled (MHABD) | Medicaid coverage; may include in‑home or nursing home services | Seniors and people with disabilities who meet income/resource and medical need rules | https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare/aged-blind-disabled |
| Spend Down (MHABD) | Lets those over the income limit qualify by meeting a monthly deductible | Seniors/disabled with income over MHABD limit | https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare/spend-down |
| Home and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) | In‑home care, CDS, adult day services to avoid nursing home placement | Those meeting Medicaid and level‑of‑care criteria | https://health.mo.gov/seniors/hcbs/ |
| PACE | All‑in‑one team‑based care to keep you in the community | Frail seniors in service areas who meet criteria | https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/healthcare/pace.htm |
| NEMT | Rides to covered medical visits | MO HealthNet participants | https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm |
Inclusive support: focused help for specific communities
LGBTQ+ seniors
- SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline (free, confidential): 877‑360‑LGBT (5428). https://www.sageusa.org
- Ask your Area Agency on Aging about LGBTQ+‑friendly providers and services: https://www.ma4web.org/find-your-aaa
- PROMO (Missouri LGBTQ+ advocacy and resources): https://promoonline.org/
Reality check: If you face bias, document it and ask for a different provider. You have the right to equal treatment in programs receiving public funds.
Veteran seniors
- Missouri Veterans Commission (MVC): state veterans homes, service officers, burial benefits. https://mvc.dps.mo.gov/
- Find a Veterans Service Officer for a benefits review or claim help: https://mvc.dps.mo.gov/service/
- VA health care:
- St. Louis VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/st-louis-health-care/
- Kansas City VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/kansas-city-health-care/
- Caregiver support (VA): https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
Tip: Bring your DD‑214 to appointments. If you have low income, ask about VA pension, Aid & Attendance, and how it interacts with MO HealthNet and long‑term care.
Tribal citizens and American Indian/Alaska Native seniors
Missouri has many Native people but no federally recognized reservations in the state. You may still qualify for help through your tribe, the Indian Health Service, or Urban Indian programs.
- Find IHS or Tribal health care near you: https://www.ihs.gov/findhealthcare/
- Kansas City Indian Center (Urban Indian Health/Community): https://kcindiancenter.org/
- Many Missouri programs (SNAP, MO HealthNet, LIHEAP) have special rules that can help AI/AN households. Ask the agency when you apply.
Rural seniors and family caregivers
- OATS Transit serves most rural counties: https://www.oatstransit.org/
- Telehealth can reduce travel—ask your clinic. Many allow telephone visits for follow ups.
- For home repairs and accessibility in rural areas, check USDA Rural Development: https://www.rd.usda.gov/mo
- Internet help: Ask your library (Missouri State Library directory: https://www.sos.mo.gov/library) and your AAA for device loan programs and digital skills classes.
Resources by region (Area Agencies on Aging)
AAAs are the local “front door” for meals, caregiver support, transportation, benefits counseling, and in‑home services referrals.
| Region/AAA | Areas served (examples) | How to contact |
|---|---|---|
| Aging Ahead | St. Louis County, St. Charles, Jefferson, Franklin | Visit: https://agingahead.org |
| City of St. Louis Area Agency on Aging | City of St. Louis | Info: https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/human-services/aging-services/ |
| Aging Best | Central Missouri (Boone, Cole, Callaway, and more) | Visit: https://agingbest.org |
| Care Connection for Aging Services | West‑Central Missouri (Benton, Johnson, Pettis, and more) | Visit: https://goaging.org |
| SeniorAge Area Agency on Aging | Southwest Missouri (Greene, Christian, Taney, and more) | Visit: https://senioragemo.org |
| Aging Matters | Southeast Missouri (Cape Girardeau, Scott, Butler, and more) | Visit: https://agingmatters2.org |
| Young at Heart Resources (Northwest AAA) | Northwest Missouri (Andrew, Buchanan, Nodaway, and more) | Visit: https://www.yahresources.org |
| Northeast Missouri AAA | Northeast Missouri (Adair, Marion, Ralls, and more) | Directory: https://www.ma4web.org/find-your-aaa |
Statewide directory (always current): https://www.ma4web.org/find-your-aaa
National finder (by ZIP): https://eldercare.acl.gov
How to apply for key benefits: a simple plan
- Gather your documents
- Photo ID, Social Security number, proof of Missouri address
- Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs), bank statements, insurance cards
- Medical bills and a list of medicines
- For property tax credit: receipt of paid real estate tax or signed rent statement
- Apply for MO HealthNet (and Medicare Savings Programs)
- Online: https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare
- Ask your AAA or Missouri SHIP for help if you’re unsure which boxes to check.
- Ask DSDS for in‑home services, adult day care, or CDS
- Learn and request an assessment: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/hcbs/
- If you need help sooner, tell the screener about safety risks (falls, memory issues, lack of caregivers).
- Lower your Medicare drug costs
- Apply for Extra Help: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/
- Apply for Missouri Rx Plan (MoRx): https://morx.mo.gov/
- Review your drug plan each fall (Oct–Dec) with Missouri SHIP: https://missouriship.org
- Apply for food and energy supports
- SNAP: https://mydss.mo.gov/food-assistance
- LIHEAP: https://mydss.mo.gov/energy-assistance
- Ask your AAA about meal programs.
- File your property tax credit
- Missouri Department of Revenue info and forms: https://dor.mo.gov/taxation/individual/property-tax-credit/
- Ask a free tax help site (VITA/TCE) or your AAA for assistance.
- Set up transportation
- If on MO HealthNet, learn how to schedule NEMT: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm
- Check OATS Transit for local routes: https://www.oatstransit.org/
- Keep a benefits folder
- Save copies of applications and letters. Write down phone calls with dates and names. This helps with renewals and appeals.
Real‑world examples
- Example 1: A 72‑year‑old in Phelps County with high drug costs
- Actions: Applied for Extra Help (SSA), enrolled in MoRx, reviewed Part D plan with Missouri SHIP. Result: Lowered monthly drug copays; kept doctors in network.
- Example 2: A 68‑year‑old in Livingston County with mobility limits
- Actions: Requested HCBS assessment through DSDS; chose Consumer‑Directed Services to hire a trusted neighbor as an attendant; used OATS for medical trips. Result: Safer bathing and meal support at home; reliable rides to the clinic.
These are illustrations only; eligibility depends on individual circumstances and program rules.
More money and home programs (details)
Missouri Property Tax Credit (Circuit Breaker)
If you rent or own your home and meet income limits, Missouri may refund a portion of the real estate tax you paid (or a portion of rent, which is treated as covering some property tax). Details and forms: https://dor.mo.gov/taxation/individual/property-tax-credit/
Reality check: The refund is claimed on your Missouri tax return. If you don’t file taxes, you can still file the credit form alone. Keep your paid tax receipt or landlord’s statement.
Senior property tax freeze (county option)
A 2023 law allows counties and certain cities to adopt a property tax freeze for eligible seniors on their primary residence. It is not automatic and not available everywhere. See the statute (Section 137.1050, RSMo): https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=137.1050 and call your county assessor for local rules and how to apply.
Missouri Rx Plan (MoRx)
MoRx helps with out‑of‑pocket drug costs for Missourians with Medicare Part D. It coordinates with your Part D plan and may lower copays and other costs. Learn eligibility and apply: https://morx.mo.gov/
Supplemental Nursing Care (SNC)
A Missouri cash benefit to help pay for care in certain licensed settings (for example, residential care facilities). Program information and how to apply: https://mydss.mo.gov/elderly-disabled/supplemental-nursing-care
Documents and forms seniors ask for often
| Need | Form/Link |
|---|---|
| Apply for benefits (MO HealthNet, SNAP, LIHEAP) | Missouri myDSS: https://mydss.mo.gov/ |
| Find in‑home care providers | Provider Search: https://healthapps.dhss.mo.gov/showmeprovidersearch/ |
| Report adult abuse/neglect | https://health.mo.gov/safety/abuse/ |
| Compare nursing homes | Show‑Me Long Term Care: https://healthapps.dhss.mo.gov/showmelongtermcare/ |
| Disabled parking placard | Missouri DOR information and forms: https://dor.mo.gov/motor-vehicle/plates/disabled.html |
| Vocational Rehabilitation (disability and work) | Missouri VR: https://dese.mo.gov/vr |
Frequently Asked Questions (Missouri‑specific)
- How do I apply for MO HealthNet for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled?
Apply online at myDSS: https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare/aged-blind-disabled. If you’re over the income limit, ask about the Spend Down option: https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare/spend-down. - How do I get in‑home help like bathing or housekeeping?
Request a Home and Community‑Based Services assessment from DSDS: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/hcbs/. If approved, you can choose agency services or Consumer‑Directed Services (you hire/manage a caregiver). - What is Consumer‑Directed Services (CDS)?
CDS lets you hire, train, and schedule your own attendant for tasks like bathing, dressing, and housekeeping. DSDS authorizes the hours; a fiscal vendor handles payroll. Start at: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/hcbs/ - How do I get a ride to the doctor on Medicaid?
MO HealthNet offers Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). Learn how to schedule a ride and what trips are covered: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm. - Does Missouri help with Medicare costs?
Yes. The Medicare Savings Programs can pay your Part B premium and sometimes other costs if you qualify. See: https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare/medicare-savings-programs. Also apply for Extra Help with drug costs: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/. - Is there help with high prescription drug costs beyond Extra Help?
Yes. The Missouri Rx Plan (MoRx) helps Missourians with Medicare Part D lower drug costs. See eligibility and apply: https://morx.mo.gov/. - How do I get the Missouri Property Tax Credit (circuit breaker)?
File the credit with the Missouri Department of Revenue. Details, forms, and who qualifies: https://dor.mo.gov/taxation/individual/property-tax-credit/. Keep proof of taxes paid or rent. - I heard about a senior property tax “freeze.” Is it statewide?
No. It’s optional and only in counties/cities that adopted it under Section 137.1050, RSMo. Verify with your county assessor. Law text: https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=137.1050. - Where do I report elder abuse or financial exploitation?
Call 1‑800‑392‑0210 or report online: https://health.mo.gov/safety/abuse/. - Who can help me compare Medicare Advantage and Part D plans?
Missouri SHIP offers free, unbiased counseling. Visit: https://missouriship.org or use the national SHIP locator: https://www.shiphelp.org. - I live in a rural county and there’s no bus. Any options?
Check OATS Transit: https://www.oatstransit.org/ and call your AAA for ride programs. If you have MO HealthNet, use NEMT: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm. - My nursing home says I have to leave. What are my rights?
Ask for the discharge notice in writing and contact the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman right away: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/ombudsman/. You may have appeal rights. - Can I work while receiving disability benefits?
Sometimes. Rules are complex and depend on SSI or SSDI. Talk with Vocational Rehabilitation: https://dese.mo.gov/vr and your AAA or legal aid before starting work. - How do I get a disability parking placard?
See Missouri DOR disabled placards info and application: https://dor.mo.gov/motor-vehicle/plates/disabled.html. Your doctor will need to certify your condition.
Key statewide links (easy bookmarks)
- Missouri myDSS (apply for Medicaid, SNAP, LIHEAP): https://mydss.mo.gov/
- DSDS Home & Community‑Based Services: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/hcbs/
- Provider Search (home care, CDS, adult day): https://healthapps.dhss.mo.gov/showmeprovidersearch/
- Medicaid Transportation (NEMT): https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm
- Missouri SHIP (Medicare help): https://missouriship.org
- Missouri Rx Plan (MoRx): https://morx.mo.gov/
- Property Tax Credit: https://dor.mo.gov/taxation/individual/property-tax-credit/
- LIHEAP: https://mydss.mo.gov/energy-assistance
- Weatherization: https://energy.mo.gov/assistance-programs/weatherization-assistance-program
- Adult Abuse & Neglect: https://health.mo.gov/safety/abuse/
- Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/ombudsman/
- OATS Transit: https://www.oatstransit.org/
- MA4 AAA directory: https://www.ma4web.org/find-your-aaa
- Missouri Assistive Technology: https://at.mo.gov/
Reality checks, warnings, and tips
- Renewals: Missouri is actively renewing Medicaid cases. Watch your mail and respond quickly to avoid losing coverage. Update your address at myDSS: https://mydss.mo.gov/.
- Waitlists and staffing: In‑home care hours can be hard to staff in some areas. Ask about multiple providers, CDS, and caregiver support.
- Keep records: Save every letter and make a simple call log (date, name, summary). It helps with renewals and appeals.
- When in doubt, get free help: Your AAA and Missouri SHIP are unbiased and free. Legal aid helps with denials and appeals.
About benefits for people in facilities
- Supplemental Nursing Care (SNC) can help pay for care in certain licensed settings. https://mydss.mo.gov/elderly-disabled/supplemental-nursing-care
- Facility search and reports: https://healthapps.dhss.mo.gov/showmelongtermcare/
- If you plan to return home after a hospital or nursing facility stay, tell your care team early. Ask about HCBS and PACE to support a safe discharge.
Table: What to say when you call
| Situation | Plain‑language script |
|---|---|
| Requesting in‑home services assessment | “I’m a Missouri senior with disabilities. I need help with bathing, meals, and housework to live safely at home. I’d like an HCBS assessment.” |
| Scheduling Medicaid ride | “I have MO HealthNet and need a ride on [date/time] to [clinic/pharmacy]. I use a [walker/wheelchair]. The appointment will last about [time].” |
| SNAP interview | “I’m over 60 with high medical costs. I want to claim my medical deductions. I pay for [list meds and medical expenses].” |
| Appealing a denial | “I received this denial on [date]. I want to appeal and request a fair hearing. Please confirm the deadline and how to submit my appeal.” |
Discharge planning and caregiver support
- Tell your hospital social worker if home is unsafe (stairs, no bathroom grab bars, no caregiver). Ask for therapy referrals, durable medical equipment, and a home safety evaluation.
- Ask your AAA about caregiver support, respite, and training. Directory: https://www.ma4web.org/find-your-aaa
Disclaimer
Program rules, dollar limits, and availability change. Always verify details with the agency or program linked in this guide. This guide is for general information; it is not legal or financial advice.
About this guide
by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team
The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.
Our Commitment to You:
- Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
- Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
- Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.
While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.
- Last Updated: January 2026
- Sources Verified: January 2026
- 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.
About the Authors