Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Montana
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This guide pulls together the most important benefits, contacts, and how-to steps for older Montanans living with disabilities, and for their families and caregivers. It focuses on state-specific programs, how to apply, and where to get local help.
Quick help box (for urgent needs)
Use these numbers and links when you need help right away.
| Need | What to do | Official link/phone |
|---|---|---|
| Life-threatening emergency | Call 911 | Call 911 |
| Mental health crisis or suicide concerns | Call or text 988 (24/7) | Visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/ |
| Veterans in crisis | Call 988, then press 1; or text 838255 | Visit the Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/ |
| Adult abuse, neglect, exploitation (including in facilities) | Report to Adult Protective Services (APS) | File or learn how to report at Montana APS: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/aps |
| Can’t afford food, housing, heat, or medical care | Dial 211 to find local help | Montana 211 statewide directory: https://montana211.org/ |
| Apply for SNAP, Medicaid, or cash/energy help | Apply online or get local OPA help | ApplyMT benefits portal: https://apply.mt.gov/ |
| Medicare counseling and fraud help | Contact SHIP/SMP in Montana | Medicare SHIP national finder: https://www.shiphelp.org/; Senior Medicare Patrol: https://www.smpresource.org/ |
Tip: If you can’t get through by phone, use the websites above and ask for a callback, or visit your local Office of Public Assistance (OPA). Find OPA locations via ApplyMT or call 211 for the closest office.
Emergency help comes first
- Immediate danger or medical emergencies: Call 911.
- Mental health or substance use crisis: Call or text 988, or chat at the 988 website. Veterans can press 1 after dialing 988 or text 838255. Source: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (https://988lifeline.org/) and Veterans Crisis Line (https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/).
- Adult abuse or neglect: Report concerns to Montana Adult Protective Services. You can report online or by phone; APS investigates abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of vulnerable adults. Source: Montana APS at the Department of Public Health & Human Services (DPHHS) (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/aps).
- Eviction, no heat, or no food: Call 211 or visit Montana 211 to find emergency shelters, food pantries, crisis grants, and local programs. Source: Montana 211 (https://montana211.org/).
Reality check: In bad weather or during wildfire season, response times can be longer, especially in rural areas. If you can, keep essential medications, a charged phone battery, and a paper list of your doctors and medications ready.
How to use this guide
- Start with the benefits you need most (healthcare, money, food, housing, transportation).
- Use the “How to apply” links and call your local OPA or Area Agency on Aging if you get stuck.
- Keep notes: who you spoke with, date/time, and what they said.
- If you’re denied, don’t give up. Many decisions can be appealed. Ask SHIP (for Medicare), your caseworker (for Medicaid or SNAP), or legal aid.
Who qualifies for most programs?
Most programs look at:
- Age and disability status.
- Income and assets.
- Montana residency.
- Medical need for certain services (like in-home help or nursing care).
Montana uses federal rules for many benefits, plus state rules for programs run by DPHHS. Each program is different, so always check the official agency page linked below before applying.
Key portals and directories:
- Apply for SNAP, Medicaid, and energy help: ApplyMT (https://apply.mt.gov/).
- Montana DPHHS, Senior & Long-Term Care: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc
- Montana 211: https://montana211.org/
- Medicare & plan finder: https://www.medicare.gov/
- Social Security (SSI/SSDI, Extra Help): https://www.ssa.gov/
Health care and long‑term care in Montana
This section covers Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, in‑home help, and nursing home options, with direct links to apply and get counseling.
Medicaid for seniors and people with disabilities (Aged, Blind, and Disabled)
- What it is: Health coverage for eligible Montanans with low income, including those 65+ and people with disabilities. It can help with doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, medical equipment, and sometimes dental and vision services. Source: Montana DPHHS Medicaid (https://dphhs.mt.gov/healthcare/medicaid).
- How to apply: Online at ApplyMT (https://apply.mt.gov/) or contact your local Office of Public Assistance. Program details: DPHHS Medicaid members (https://dphhs.mt.gov/healthcare/medicaid/members).
Reality check: Medicaid applications can take time. If you need care now, ask about “presumptive eligibility,” emergency coverage, or help from your hospital’s financial counselor.
Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI)
- What they do: If you have Medicare and limited income, these programs may pay your Part B premium and, for QMB, Medicare deductibles and coinsurance. These programs are administered by Montana through Medicaid. General MSP info: Medicare.gov (https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/medicare-savings-programs).
- How to apply: Use ApplyMT (https://apply.mt.gov/) or ask your Area Agency on Aging/SHIP for help: SHIP national finder (https://www.shiphelp.org/).
Tip: Many people qualify for an MSP and don’t know it. Ask SHIP to screen you.
Extra Help for prescriptions (Low‑Income Subsidy)
- What it does: Reduces Medicare Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays. Apply through Social Security. Source: SSA Extra Help (https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/).
- How to apply: Online at SSA, by phone, or with help from SHIP (https://www.shiphelp.org/).
Home and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) Waiver for the Elderly & Physically Disabled
- What it is: Often called the “Big Sky” or EPD HCBS Waiver, it helps eligible people get care at home or in the community instead of a nursing facility. Services can include personal care, homemaking, home modifications, respite, adult day services, and case management. Source: DPHHS HCBS programs (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/hcbs).
- How to apply: Contact Senior & Long Term Care/Area Agency on Aging to request an assessment or referral. Start at DPHHS Senior & Long-Term Care (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc) or call 211 to be routed locally.
Reality check: Waiver services may have waitlists in some areas. Ask about priority categories, interim services, and what to do while waiting.
Community First Choice (CFC) and Personal Assistance Services (PAS)
- What they do: Provide in‑home help with daily activities (like bathing, dressing, meal prep, and mobility). Some services can be self‑directed so you help choose and direct your caregiver. Source: DPHHS Senior & Long-Term Care (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc).
- How to apply: Through Medicaid; request an in‑home assessment via your local AAA or OPA. Start at DPHHS SLTC (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc) or ApplyMT (https://apply.mt.gov/).
Nursing facility Medicaid
- What it covers: For those who meet nursing home level of care and financial eligibility, Medicaid can pay for nursing facility care. Source: DPHHS Medicaid (https://dphhs.mt.gov/healthcare/medicaid).
- Finding and comparing facilities: Use Medicare Care Compare to see quality ratings, inspection results, and staffing levels (https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/).
Medicare counseling and fraud protection
- SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program): Free, unbiased Medicare counseling via your Area Agency on Aging. Find SHIP in Montana through the national directory: https://www.shiphelp.org/.
- Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): Helps prevent and report Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse. Find your SMP: https://www.smpresource.org/.
Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
- What it is: Transportation to covered medical appointments for Medicaid members when you have no other way to get there. Source: DPHHS Medicaid members (https://dphhs.mt.gov/healthcare/medicaid/members).
- How to use: Contact the Medicaid transportation instructions on the DPHHS member page or ask your provider’s office for current scheduling details.
Assistive technology and durable medical equipment
- MonTECH (University of Montana): Statewide device loans, demonstrations, reuse, and assistive tech support for Montanans with disabilities. Source: MonTECH (https://montech.ruralinstitute.umt.edu/).
- Medicare coverage: Medicare may cover certain durable medical equipment when medically necessary and prescribed. Source: Medicare coverage of DME (https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/durable-medical-equipment-dme-coverage).
Hospice and home health
- Medicare covers hospice for those with a terminal illness and home health for skilled needs when criteria are met. Sources: Medicare hospice coverage (https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/hospice-care), Medicare home health coverage (https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/home-health-services).
At‑a‑glance: Major Montana health and long‑term care programs
| Program | What it does | Who to contact/apply |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid (ABD) | Health coverage for eligible older adults and people with disabilities | ApplyMT: https://apply.mt.gov/; DPHHS Medicaid members: https://dphhs.mt.gov/healthcare/medicaid/members |
| Medicare Savings Programs | Help with Medicare Part B premium and cost‑sharing | ApplyMT: https://apply.mt.gov/; SHIP help: https://www.shiphelp.org/ |
| Extra Help (Part D) | Lowers drug plan costs | Apply at SSA: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/ |
| HCBS Waiver (EPD) | In‑home/community services to avoid nursing home | DPHHS HCBS: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/hcbs |
| Community First Choice / PAS | In‑home personal assistance; some self‑direction | DPHHS SLTC: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc |
| NEMT (Medicaid transport) | Rides to covered medical care if no other option | DPHHS Medicaid members: https://dphhs.mt.gov/healthcare/medicaid/members |
| SHIP/SMP | Free Medicare counseling and fraud help | SHIP: https://www.shiphelp.org/; SMP: https://www.smpresource.org/ |
Reality check: Eligibility rules and provider availability vary by county, and rural areas may have fewer home care workers. Get on waitlists early and ask about backup options.
Money, taxes, and utilities
Social Security, SSI, SSDI
- Social Security retirement and disability benefits are federal. Many state programs use your SSA benefit amount to decide eligibility.
- Apply, appeal, or manage benefits at Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/.
- Find your local SSA office: https://www.ssa.gov/locator/.
Montana property tax relief
- Property Tax Assistance Program (PTAP): Reduces property taxes for eligible low‑income homeowners. Source: Montana Department of Revenue PTAP (https://mtrevenue.gov/taxes/property-tax/assistance-programs/property-tax-assistance-ptap/).
- Disabled Veteran (MDV) Property Tax Assistance: Reduces property taxes for qualifying disabled veterans and surviving spouses. Source: MDV Property Tax Assistance (https://mtrevenue.gov/taxes/property-tax/assistance-programs/disabled-veteran/).
- Elderly Homeowner/Renter Credit: Refundable state income tax credit for certain Montanans age 62+ based on property tax or rent paid, subject to income limits and other rules. Source: Elderly Homeowner/Renter Credit (https://mtrevenue.gov/taxes/individual-income-tax/credits/elderly-homeowner-renter-credit/).
Tip: Keep your property tax bill, rental receipts or ledger, and proof of income. Call your county treasurer or assessor if you need help with forms.
Energy and weatherization
- Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP): Helps with winter heating bills for eligible households. Apply through OPA or online. Source: DPHHS Energy Assistance (https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/energyassistance).
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Improves home energy efficiency to lower bills (insulation, sealing, safety checks). Often coordinated with LIEAP. Source: DPHHS Energy & Weatherization (https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/energyassistance).
Tip: Apply early in the heating season. In very cold snaps, call 211 if you risk shutoff.
Phone and internet savings and accessibility
- Lifeline: A federal program that lowers the cost of phone or internet for eligible low‑income households. Source: FCC Lifeline (https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers).
- Montana Telecommunications Access Program (MTAP): Provides no‑cost specialized phone equipment for eligible Montanans with hearing, vision, mobility, or speech disabilities; includes Montana Relay (711). Source: MTAP (https://dphhs.mt.gov/detd/mtap).
Note: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended funding in 2024 unless Congress renews it. Check the FCC for updates. Source: FCC ACP page (https://www.fcc.gov/acp).
Money and utilities: quick comparison
| Program | What it covers | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|
| PTAP | Property tax reduction for eligible homeowners | MT Dept. of Revenue PTAP: https://mtrevenue.gov/taxes/property-tax/assistance-programs/property-tax-assistance-ptap/ |
| MDV | Property tax reduction for disabled veterans/survivors | MDV Program: https://mtrevenue.gov/taxes/property-tax/assistance-programs/disabled-veteran/ |
| Elderly Homeowner/Renter Credit | State income tax credit tied to property tax or rent | MT Dept. of Revenue credit page: https://mtrevenue.gov/taxes/individual-income-tax/credits/elderly-homeowner-renter-credit/ |
| LIEAP | Help with heating bills | DPHHS Energy Assistance: https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/energyassistance |
| Weatherization | Home energy efficiency improvements | DPHHS Energy & Weatherization: https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/energyassistance |
| Lifeline | Discount on phone/internet service | FCC Lifeline: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers |
| MTAP | Adaptive phone equipment and relay services | DPHHS MTAP: https://dphhs.mt.gov/detd/mtap |
Food and nutrition
SNAP (Food Stamps)
- What it is: Monthly help to buy groceries. Seniors and people with disabilities may qualify even with some savings and higher medical costs.
- How to apply: ApplyMT online (https://apply.mt.gov/) or contact OPA. Program info: DPHHS SNAP (https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/snap).
Tip: Keep receipts for out‑of‑pocket medical costs. They can sometimes increase your SNAP benefit.
Meals for older adults
- Home-delivered meals (Meals on Wheels) and community dining sites are coordinated by Area Agencies on Aging. Ask your local AAA about eligibility, suggested donations, and delivery areas. Find your AAA via DPHHS Senior & Long-Term Care (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc) or use Montana 211 (https://montana211.org/).
- You can also use the Meals on Wheels America locator to find a local program: https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/find-meals.
Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)
- What it is: A monthly box of nutritious foods for eligible seniors. In Montana, CSFP is available through local distribution partners. General program info: USDA CSFP (https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp). Montana distribution is supported by the Montana Food Bank Network; program details and locations: MFBN Commodities for Seniors (https://mfbn.org/programs/commodities-for-seniors/).
Farmers’ market produce
- The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides coupons for fresh produce at participating markets in states that operate the program. Check availability and how to apply through your local AAA or the USDA overview. Source: USDA SFMNP (https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program).
Food and utility help at a glance
| Need | Best first step | Official links |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP groceries | Apply online or at OPA | ApplyMT: https://apply.mt.gov/; DPHHS SNAP: https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/snap |
| Home‑delivered meals | Contact your Area Agency on Aging | DPHHS Senior & Long-Term Care: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc |
| CSFP senior food box | Check local distribution partners | USDA CSFP: https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp; MFBN CSFP page: https://mfbn.org/programs/commodities-for-seniors/ |
| Farmers’ market coupons | Ask your AAA about SFMNP | USDA SFMNP: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program |
| Heat/utility help | Apply for LIEAP and weatherization | DPHHS Energy Assistance: https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/energyassistance |
Housing and home repairs
Affordable rental housing
- Montana Housing (Department of Commerce) oversees Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) and other rental programs. Source: Montana Housing (https://housing.mt.gov/) and Housing Choice Voucher program (https://housing.mt.gov/Rental-Housing/Housing-Choice-Voucher-Program).
Reality check: Waitlists are common. If lists are closed, set a reminder to check reopening dates and ask about local preferences.
Home repairs and accessibility
- USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Rural Development): Loans and grants to fix, improve, or remove health/safety hazards; grants are available for very low-income homeowners age 62+. Source: USDA RD Home Repair in Montana (https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/mt).
- HCBS Waiver and CFC/PAS: May cover limited home modifications related to your care plan. Source: DPHHS SLTC (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc).
Long‑Term Care Ombudsman and legal help
- Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Advocates for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities—concerns about care, rights, or transfers/discharges. Source: Montana LTC Ombudsman (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/aging/ltcombudsman).
- Legal help for civil matters (benefits, housing, consumer issues): Montana Legal Services Association (https://www.mtlsa.org/).
Transportation and mobility
- Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation: For Medicaid-covered visits if you have no other ride option. See DPHHS Medicaid member info (https://dphhs.mt.gov/healthcare/medicaid/members).
- Local transit and paratransit (examples):
- Missoula Mountain Line (zero-fare fixed routes; paratransit available): https://www.mountainline.com/
- Billings MET Transit: https://www.billingsmt.gov/147/MET-Transit
- Great Falls Transit District: https://gftransit.com/
- Bozeman Streamline Bus: https://www.streamlinebus.com/
- Kalispell/Flathead County Eagle Transit: https://www.co.flathead.mt.us/172/Eagle-Transit
- Disability parking placards: Apply through the Montana Motor Vehicle Division. Source: Disability Parking Permits (https://dojmt.gov/driving/disability-parking-permits/).
Tip: If paratransit trips are limited, schedule early and ask about “subscription” rides for dialysis or frequent appointments.
Caregiver help and respite
- Montana Caregiver Support Program (Title III‑E): Information, support groups, training, and respite for family caregivers of older adults or those with dementia. Source: DPHHS Caregiver Support (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/aging/caregiver).
- Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs): “No wrong door” for long‑term care options, benefits counseling, and referrals. Source: DPHHS ADRC (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/aging/adrc).
Disability‑related and low‑vision resources
- MonTECH (assistive technology): Device loans, demos, reuse, and assessments. Source: https://montech.ruralinstitute.umt.edu/
- Montana Talking Book Library: Free audiobooks and braille for eligible Montanans with vision or print disabilities. Source: Montana State Library—Talking Book Library (https://mtstatelibrary.gov/brands/talking-book/).
- Montana Telecommunications Access Program (MTAP): Specialized phones and relay: https://dphhs.mt.gov/detd/mtap.
Inclusive supports
LGBTQ+ older adults
- SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline: 877-360-LGBT (5428). Friendly help, resources, and support. Source: SAGE USA (https://www.sageusa.org/what-we-do/sage-national-lgbt-elder-hotline/).
- Local connection: Use Montana 211 (https://montana211.org/) to search by county for LGBTQ‑affirming services and senior programs. Ask your AAA about inclusive meal sites and caregiver support.
Tip: If you face discrimination from a provider, document what happened and contact the LTC Ombudsman (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/aging/ltcombudsman) or legal aid (https://www.mtlsa.org/).
Veterans in Montana
- VA Montana Health Care System (Fort Harrison and clinics statewide): Enrollment, primary/specialty care, and home‑based care options. Source: VA Montana (https://www.va.gov/montana-health-care/).
- Aid & Attendance/Housebound pension add‑ons: Help with paying for care if you need daily assistance. Source: VA Pension with Aid & Attendance (https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/).
- State Veterans Affairs: Help with claims and appeals. Source: Montana Veterans Affairs Division (https://dma.mt.gov/mvad/).
Tribal and Native programs
- Indian Health Service, Billings Area: Health services for eligible American Indians and Alaska Natives in Montana. Source: IHS Billings Area (https://www.ihs.gov/billings/).
- Title VI Native American Aging Programs: Nutrition, caregiver support, and supportive services through Tribal aging programs. Source: ACL Title VI (https://acl.gov/programs/native-americans/title-vi).
- Medicaid coordination: If you receive care through IHS/tribal health, ask your care coordinator about Medicaid, transportation, and referrals. For general Medicaid info: DPHHS Medicaid (https://dphhs.mt.gov/healthcare/medicaid).
Rural seniors and families
- Find a nearby clinic: Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and rural health clinics can be closer than hospitals and often offer sliding‑fee care. Source: HRSA Find a Health Center (https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/).
- Telehealth: Medicare continues to cover many telehealth services; coverage details can change, so check Medicare (https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/telehealth).
- Rides and deliveries: If you can’t travel easily, ask your AAA about home‑delivered meals, grocery delivery options, and volunteer driver programs in your county. Use Montana 211 (https://montana211.org/) to search by ZIP code.
Resources by region (find local help faster)
Montana services are delivered locally. Use these regional starting points and directories to get to the right office near you.
| Region (general) | Best local starting points | Directories |
|---|---|---|
| Western Montana (Missoula, Bitterroot) | Missoula Mountain Line paratransit: https://www.mountainline.com/; local AAA via DPHHS SLTC | DPHHS Senior & Long‑Term Care: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc; Montana 211: https://montana211.org/ |
| Northwest (Flathead, Glacier) | Flathead County Agency on Aging/Eagle Transit: https://www.co.flathead.mt.us/172/Eagle-Transit | DPHHS SLTC: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc; 211: https://montana211.org/ |
| Southwest/Greater Gallatin | Streamline Bus (Bozeman): https://www.streamlinebus.com/; local AAA via DPHHS SLTC | DPHHS SLTC: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc; 211: https://montana211.org/ |
| North‑Central (Great Falls and surrounding) | Great Falls Transit: https://gftransit.com/; AAA/ADRC via Cascade County Aging Services | DPHHS SLTC: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc; 211: https://montana211.org/ |
| South‑Central/Eastern (Billings and plains) | Billings MET Transit: https://www.billingsmt.gov/147/MET-Transit; AAA in Yellowstone County | DPHHS SLTC: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc; 211: https://montana211.org/ |
If you’re unsure which Area Agency on Aging serves your county, contact DPHHS Senior & Long‑Term Care (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc) or dial 211, and ask for the AAA and ADRC for your exact ZIP code.
How to apply: step‑by‑step
- Gather documents
- Proof of identity and Montana residency.
- Social Security number.
- Income information (award letters, pay stubs).
- Bank statements and information about assets (if required).
- Medical bills and mileage (for SNAP medical deductions).
- Property tax bill or rent receipts (for tax credits).
- Apply online or in person
- ApplyMT (Medicaid, MSP, SNAP, TANF, some energy help): https://apply.mt.gov/
- DPHHS Senior & Long‑Term Care (assessments for HCBS/CFC/PAS; caregiver help; LTC Ombudsman): https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc
- Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8): https://housing.mt.gov/Rental-Housing/Housing-Choice-Voucher-Program
- Social Security programs (SSI/SSDI, Extra Help): https://www.ssa.gov/
- Lifeline phone/internet discount: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers
- Get unbiased help
- SHIP for Medicare questions: https://www.shiphelp.org/
- ADRC for long‑term care options: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/aging/adrc
- Legal help to appeal denials or stop scams: https://www.mtlsa.org/
- Call 211 for local nonprofits that help complete applications: https://montana211.org/
- Follow up
- Keep copies of everything you submit.
- Ask for written decisions and deadlines.
- Appeal on time if you’re denied. The notice explains how.
Key portals at a glance
| Purpose | Website |
|---|---|
| Apply for Medicaid, SNAP, energy help | ApplyMT: https://apply.mt.gov/ |
| Montana DPHHS Senior & Long‑Term Care | https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc |
| Medicare plan search and coverage | https://www.medicare.gov/ |
| Social Security, SSI/SSDI, Extra Help | https://www.ssa.gov/ |
| Montana Housing (vouchers/programs) | https://housing.mt.gov/ |
| Find clinics near you (FQHC) | https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/ |
| Montana 211 directory | https://montana211.org/ |
Reality checks, warnings, and tips
- Expect wait times. Home care worker shortages and rural distance can delay services. Ask about backup providers and temporary supports (like meal deliveries).
- Watch for scams. Don’t share your Medicare number with unsolicited callers. Report suspected fraud to the Senior Medicare Patrol (https://www.smpresource.org/) or the Montana Department of Justice Office of Consumer Protection (https://dojmt.gov/consumer/consumer-complaints/).
- Keep benefits in sync. If your income changes, report it to the programs that require updates (SNAP, Medicaid, housing) to avoid overpayments or closures.
- Use appeals. Many denials are reversed when people appeal with more documentation or a doctor’s letter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Where do I start if I think I qualify for Medicaid or in‑home help?
- Start with ApplyMT (https://apply.mt.gov/) for Medicaid and with DPHHS Senior & Long‑Term Care (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc) to ask about an assessment for HCBS Waiver or Community First Choice/Personal Assistance.
Q2: How do Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) work in Montana?
- They’re state‑run programs that help pay Medicare costs if you meet income/resource limits. Apply through ApplyMT (https://apply.mt.gov/) or call your Area Agency on Aging/SHIP (https://www.shiphelp.org/). General info is at Medicare.gov (https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/medicare-savings-programs).
Q3: Is there help with prescription drug costs?
- Yes. Apply for Extra Help (Low‑Income Subsidy) through Social Security (https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/). Ask SHIP for plan comparisons to keep your costs down (https://www.shiphelp.org/).
Q4: Can Montana help me with property taxes or rent?
- Possibly. Check PTAP and the Disabled Veteran Property Tax Assistance through the Montana Department of Revenue (https://mtrevenue.gov/taxes/property-tax/assistance-programs/), and the Elderly Homeowner/Renter Credit (https://mtrevenue.gov/taxes/individual-income-tax/credits/elderly-homeowner-renter-credit/).
Q5: I live far from town. How can I get to medical appointments?
- If you have Medicaid, look into Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation via the DPHHS Medicaid member page (https://dphhs.mt.gov/healthcare/medicaid/members). Also check local transit/paratransit (for example, Mountain Line in Missoula: https://www.mountainline.com/), and call 211 (https://montana211.org/) to find volunteer driver programs.
Q6: Where can I report elder abuse or concerns about a nursing home?
- Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation to Montana Adult Protective Services (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/aps). For concerns inside a facility (rights, evictions, care problems), contact the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/aging/ltcombudsman).
Q7: Are there home‑delivered meals in my county?
- Most counties have Meals on Wheels through the local AAA. Use DPHHS Senior & Long‑Term Care (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc) or Montana 211 (https://montana211.org/). You can also search Meals on Wheels America (https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/find-meals).
Q8: What if my benefit application is denied?
- Read the denial letter; it explains why and how to appeal. You can ask for a fair hearing for Medicaid or SNAP. Get help from your AAA/ADRC (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/aging/adrc) or Montana Legal Services (https://www.mtlsa.org/).
Q9: Can someone help me pick a Medicare plan?
- Yes. Contact Montana’s SHIP via the national locator (https://www.shiphelp.org/). They provide free, unbiased counseling.
Q10: Is there help with assistive technology or low‑vision services?
- Yes. MonTECH (https://montech.ruralinstitute.umt.edu/) offers device loans and assessments. The Montana Talking Book Library provides free audiobooks and braille (https://mtstatelibrary.gov/brands/talking-book/). MTAP offers adaptive telecommunication equipment (https://dphhs.mt.gov/detd/mtap).
Q11: I’m a veteran—can VA and Medicaid work together?
- Often yes. VA services can coordinate with Medicaid and home‑based services. Start with VA Montana (https://www.va.gov/montana-health-care/) and ask DPHHS SLTC (https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc) about Medicaid options.
Q12: Does Montana still have discounted internet for low‑income households?
- The federal ACP ended funding in 2024 unless renewed. Lifeline is still available for phone or limited internet discounts. Check the FCC Lifeline program (https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers) and ask your provider about any low‑income plans.
Full resources list (statewide)
- DPHHS Senior & Long‑Term Care Division (SLTC): https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc
- ApplyMT (Medicaid, SNAP, energy help): https://apply.mt.gov/
- DPHHS Medicaid members: https://dphhs.mt.gov/healthcare/medicaid/members
- Montana 211 (local services directory): https://montana211.org/
- Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/aging/ltcombudsman
- Adult Protective Services (report): https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/aps
- SHIP Medicare counseling (locator): https://www.shiphelp.org/
- Senior Medicare Patrol: https://www.smpresource.org/
- Medicare Care Compare: https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/
- Social Security/Extra Help: https://www.ssa.gov/
- Montana Housing (Section 8, rental programs): https://housing.mt.gov/
- LIEAP and Weatherization: https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/energyassistance
- Montana Department of Revenue, property tax assistance: https://mtrevenue.gov/taxes/property-tax/assistance-programs/
- Elderly Homeowner/Renter Credit: https://mtrevenue.gov/taxes/individual-income-tax/credits/elderly-homeowner-renter-credit/
- MT Telecommunications Access Program (MTAP): https://dphhs.mt.gov/detd/mtap
- MonTECH Assistive Technology: https://montech.ruralinstitute.umt.edu/
- Montana Talking Book Library: https://mtstatelibrary.gov/brands/talking-book/
- VA Montana Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/montana-health-care/
- Montana Veterans Affairs Division: https://dma.mt.gov/mvad/
- Indian Health Service, Billings Area: https://www.ihs.gov/billings/
- ACL Title VI Native American Aging: https://acl.gov/programs/native-americans/title-vi
- HRSA Find a Health Center: https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/
- Meals on Wheels America locator: https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/find-meals
- FCC Lifeline: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers
- Montana DOJ, Consumer Protection: https://dojmt.gov/consumer/consumer-complaints/
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/
- Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
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: May 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
This guide is for general information only and does not replace advice from an attorney, benefits specialist, tax professional, healthcare provider, or the relevant agency. Programs change and may have local differences. Always confirm details with the official program source using the links provided above.
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