Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in New Hampshire

Last updated: August 2025

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Quick Help Box (Emergency and Fast Answers)

Use this table to act quickly. In a crisis, call 911.

Reality check: Some services have waiting lists, income and asset limits, or medical need requirements. If you’re denied, you can often appeal or reapply with better documentation. ServiceLink can help you understand your options and next steps.

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Who this guide is for

• New Hampshire residents age 60+ with a disability, and adults under 60 with disabilities who are planning for aging in place.
• Family caregivers helping a loved one.
• Veterans, LGBTQ+ older adults, rural residents, and people with limited income who need state‑specific steps and contacts.

According to U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts, roughly one in five New Hampshire residents is age 65 or older; the state is aging faster than much of the nation. See: U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: New Hampshire. That makes it even more important to know how the system works here—what’s state‑run, where to apply, and who can advocate for you.

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How to use this guide

1. Start with the Quick Help Box (above) if you need urgent help.
2. Use the tables to scan programs, then click the official links to apply or learn more.
3. If anything is confusing, call ServiceLink. They’re the state’s main front door for aging and disability services and Medicare counseling.

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The “Big Three” in New Hampshire

• ServiceLink (Aging & Disability Resource Center): Your best first call for Medicare counseling, long‑term care options (home care, nursing home), caregiver support, and local programs. ServiceLink NH
• NH DHHS + NH EASY: Apply for SNAP, Medicaid (including long‑term care and in‑home help), and other supports. NH EASY • NH DHHS
• 211 New Hampshire: Fast connections to local food, shelter, heating help, transportation, and more. 211 NH

Tip: Create an online NH EASY account before you apply. You can upload documents and track your case.

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At‑a‑Glance: Major Benefits for Disabled Seniors in NH

The table below covers the most‑used programs. Click through for official details and applications.

Reality check: Some programs need a disability determination (SSA) or a medical needs assessment (DHHS). Gather proof early—ID, Social Security card, proof of NH residency, income, resources, medical notes, and health insurance cards.

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Health Coverage and Long‑Term Care in NH

Medicaid for Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD)

• What it is: Full‑scope Medicaid for adults 65+ or with disabilities. Covers hospital, doctors, prescriptions (with Medicaid or Medicare coordination), and may include long‑term services and supports (LTSS).
• How it works: Financial rules apply (income and resources). If you have Medicare, Medicaid can help with premiums/cost‑sharing. Use NH EASY to apply.
• Where to start: NH DHHS – Medicaid and NH EASY.

Tip: Financial limits change yearly. For current limits, check NH DHHS eligibility pages or call ServiceLink for a benefits checkup.

Choices for Independence (CFI) Waiver (Home and Community‑Based Services)

• What it is: NH’s main waiver that helps you live at home instead of a nursing home if you meet “nursing facility level of care.”
• What it covers: Personal care, homemaker help, adult day, respite for caregivers, case management, some equipment, and more.
• Who qualifies: Adults who meet medical and financial criteria. A state nurse or assessor will complete a clinical assessment.
• Where to start: Contact ServiceLink NH to request a CFI screening and help with the application.

Reality check: CFI can have wait times for assessments or provider availability. If you’re hospitalized, ask the discharge planner to refer you right away.

Medicare, MSPs, and Extra Help

• Medicare counseling: ServiceLink is New Hampshire’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). They provide unbiased help comparing Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare, Part D plans, and Medigap. Book an appointment via ServiceLink NH.
• Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI): These programs may pay your Part B premium and, for QMB, Medicare cost‑sharing. Apply through NH EASY. Learn what each program covers at Medicaid.gov – MSPs.
• Extra Help (Low‑Income Subsidy): Lowers drug plan premiums, deductibles, and copays for Part D. Apply at SSA – Extra Help.

Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

• If you have Medicaid, you may be eligible for rides to covered medical appointments. Contact your Medicaid plan’s member services or ask DHHS about transportation under your coverage. Start at NH DHHS or call ServiceLink to navigate options.

Assistive Technology and Home Modifications

• CFI may include home modifications if they help you remain safe at home. Ask your case manager.
• Medicare may cover certain durable medical equipment when medically necessary. Learn more at Medicare.gov – What Medicare covers.

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Food and Nutrition

• SNAP (Food Stamps): Apply at NH EASY. Elderly/disabled households can claim medical expenses to increase benefits. Verified SNAP rules are at USDA FNS – SNAP.
• Meals on Wheels and Congregate Meals: Home‑delivered meals with a safety check; community dining for social connection. Find local providers via the Eldercare Locator or 211 NH.
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Monthly food packages for eligible adults 60+. Administered in NH by the New Hampshire Food Bank. See eligibility and sites at NH Food Bank – CSFP.
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program: Provides coupons for local produce at participating markets. Check New Hampshire availability through USDA – SFMNP.

Reality check: Delivery slots and meal routes can be full in some areas. Put your name in early, and ask about waitlists, wellness checks, and special diet options.

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Housing and Home Energy

Rental Help

• Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and Public Housing: Managed by New Hampshire Housing. Waiting lists can be long or periodically closed. Check NHHFA for openings and instructions.
• Affordable Housing Search: NHHFA lists affordable properties and program updates: New Hampshire Housing – Rental Housing.

Staying Warm and Cutting Energy Bills

• LIHEAP (Fuel Assistance Program): Helps with winter heating bills. Apply through your local Community Action Agency (CAA). Find your CAA via 211 NH.
• Electric Assistance Program (EAP): Offers a discount on your monthly electric bill for eligible customers. Details at the New Hampshire Department of Energy (search “Electric Assistance Program”).
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Improves home energy efficiency to lower heating costs (insulation, air sealing). Administered locally by Community Action Agencies; learn about WAP nationally at the U.S. Department of Energy: DOE – Weatherization Assistance Program. In NH, contact your local CAA for intake.

Reality check: Energy programs are seasonal and funds can run out. Apply early in the season and keep copies of fuel bills, lease, and income proof.

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Money and Income Supports

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSDI is based on your work record; SSI is needs‑based for people 65+ or disabled. Apply or manage benefits at SSA.gov.
• Representative Payee: If money management is hard, SSA can appoint a payee to manage SSI/SSDI funds. Learn more at SSA – Representative Payee.
• Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help: See the “Health Coverage” section above; these can free up cash monthly by lowering health costs.

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Transportation and Mobility

• Medicaid NEMT: See Health Coverage section.
• Local rides: Many towns and nonprofits offer dial‑a‑ride, volunteer drivers, and ADA paratransit. Use 211 NH to search “Transportation,” or check NH DOT regional networks.
• Find a health center with transportation help: Some community health centers offer ride assistance. Search by ZIP at HRSA – Find a Health Center.

Tip: When booking medical rides, request as soon as you have your appointment date. Ask about accessible vehicles if you use a wheelchair or scooter.

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Taxes, Utilities, and Consumer Protections

• Property Tax Relief for Low‑ and Moderate‑Income Homeowners: New Hampshire offers a property tax relief program through the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA). Check program details and filing windows at NH Department of Revenue Administration.
• Municipal Exemptions/Credits: Many towns offer elderly, disabled, and veterans’ exemptions or credits as allowed under state law. Contact your town assessor. DRA explains credits/exemptions on its site: NH DRA – Municipal Property.
• Lifeline (Phone/Internet): Monthly discount on phone or broadband for eligible households. Learn and apply at FCC – Lifeline.
• Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): Federal funding ended in 2024 and the program has wound down. See status and guidance at FCC – ACP.

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Caregivers and Family Support

• NH Family Caregiver Support Program: Offers information, counseling, respite, and education for caregivers. Access through ServiceLink NH.
• Respite: Can be available through CFI or caregiver programs. Ask ServiceLink about eligibility and local providers.
• Advance Care Planning: New Hampshire durable power of attorney for health care and living will forms are available through state and hospital websites; your doctor or ServiceLink can help you get the current official forms.

Tip: Keep a caregiver file with meds, doctors, insurance cards, ID, and powers of attorney. It speeds up applications and emergencies.

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Legal Help and Protection from Abuse or Scams

• Adult Protective Services (APS): Report suspected abuse, neglect, self‑neglect, or financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult through NH DHHS. Start at NH DHHS – Adult Protective Services.
• New Hampshire Legal Assistance (NHLA) and 603 Legal Aid: Free civil legal help on housing, benefits, consumer issues, and elder law matters. Visit NH Legal Assistance and 603 Legal Aid.
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Resolves complaints in nursing homes and assisted living. Find contact via NH DHHS and ServiceLink: NH DHHS (search “Long‑Term Care Ombudsman”).
• Report scams: Federal Trade Commission complaint portal: ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Medicare fraud tips at Medicare – Reporting fraud.

Reality check: Financial exploitation often involves someone you know. If something feels off—pressure to sign, sudden new “friends,” missing money—talk to APS or legal aid.

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Program Details: What They Are and How They Help

Below are more details on state‑specific and federal programs commonly used by disabled seniors in New Hampshire.

Choices for Independence (CFI) – Home Care Instead of a Nursing Home

• What it is: A Medicaid Home and Community‑Based Services waiver that provides personal care, homemaker services, adult day health, respite, and case management so you can remain at home.
• What it does: Coordinates care around your goals, helping with bathing, dressing, meals, chores, and caregiver breaks. Some equipment and home modifications may be available when needed for safety.
• Who it serves: Adults who meet financial rules and nursing‑facility level‑of‑care criteria. Medical assessments are done by the state or its designees.
• Where to start: ServiceLink NH for screening and application help.

Medicaid ABD (Aged, Blind, Disabled)

• What it is: State Medicaid category for people 65+ or disabled.
• What it does: Covers medical services. If you’re also on Medicare, Medicaid can wrap around Medicare to reduce your out‑of‑pocket costs and may provide long‑term services.
• Who it serves: People with limited income/resources who meet disability or age criteria.
• Where to apply: NH EASY. Learn about categories at NH DHHS.

Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI)

• What they are: Medicaid programs that help pay Medicare costs.
• What they do: QMB can pay Part A/B premiums and most Medicare cost‑sharing. SLMB/QI generally pay the Part B premium.
• Who they serve: Medicare beneficiaries with limited income/resources.
• Where to apply: NH EASY. Program definitions at Medicaid.gov – MSPs.

Extra Help (Part D LIS)

• What it is: A Social Security program that lowers Part D drug costs.
• What it does: May reduce premiums, deductibles, and copays—often dramatically—for your medications.
• Who it serves: Medicare beneficiaries with limited income/resources.
• Where to apply: SSA – Extra Help.

SNAP (Food Stamps)

• What it is: Monthly food benefits on an EBT card.
• What it does: Helps stretch your grocery budget. Elderly/disabled households can claim out‑of‑pocket medical costs to possibly raise their benefit.
• Who it serves: Low‑income households. There are special rules that simplify things for seniors and disabled adults.
• Where to apply: NH EASY. Program rules at USDA – SNAP.

Meals on Wheels

• What it is: Home‑delivered meals, often with a daily safety check.
• What it does: Provides nutrition and someone checking in. Many providers also offer community dining sites.
• Who it serves: Generally adults 60+ and people with disabilities who need the service.
• Where to apply: Through local providers; find them via Eldercare Locator or 211 NH.

LIHEAP (Fuel Assistance) and Electric Assistance Program

• LIHEAP: Helps with winter heating costs; administered locally by Community Action Agencies. Apply early. Find your local CAA via 211 NH.
• Electric Assistance Program (EAP): Monthly electric bill discount for eligible customers; details and application info at the NH Department of Energy.

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) and Public Housing

• What they are: Rent subsidies to make housing affordable (voucher), or reduced‑rent units (public housing).
• Who they serve: Low‑income households, including seniors and disabled adults.
• Where to apply: New Hampshire Housing.

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Tables You Can Use

Table 1. Apply Online or By Phone

Table 2. Health Cost Help in One View

Table 3. Housing and Utilities Snapshot

Table 4. Taxes and Legal Protections

Table 5. Who to Call When You’re Stuck

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Inclusivity: Resources for Specific Communities

LGBTQ+ Older Adults

• SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline: Peer support and resources for LGBTQ+ elders and caregivers. Call 1‑877‑360‑LGBT (1‑877‑360‑5428) or visit SAGE Hotline.
• Anti‑discrimination: If you face discrimination in housing, public accommodations, or employment, contact the New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights.
• Local supports: Use 211 NH or Eldercare Locator to find welcoming senior centers and counseling.

Tip: Document incidents and keep copies of any notices if you need to file a complaint.

Veterans and Military Families

• VA Health Care: The Manchester VA Medical Center serves New Hampshire. Start at VA Manchester.
• Benefits help: The NH Office of Veterans Services can help you apply for VA disability compensation, pensions (including Aid & Attendance), and survivor benefits.
• Crisis support: Veterans Crisis Line—call 988 and press 1.

Reality check: VA benefits can take time. Filing a Fully Developed Claim with strong medical evidence may help. Use an accredited Veterans Service Officer.

Tribal and Native Elders

• Federally recognized tribes are not headquartered in New Hampshire. If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe living in NH, you may still access Indian Health Service (IHS) benefits through your tribe and the IHS area office. See the IHS – Find Healthcare and your tribe’s health office.
• You also qualify for statewide programs in this guide based on income, disability, and age.

Rural Seniors and Limited Access Areas

• Health centers: Community Health Centers provide sliding‑fee primary care, often with care coordination. Find nearby clinics at HRSA – Find a Health Center.
• Mobile and telehealth: Ask your clinic about telehealth options if travel is hard; some have visiting nurses. If broadband is limited, ask about phone‑based visits.
• Transportation: Check 211 NH for volunteer driver programs and ADA rides. Book early and confirm return trips.

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Resources by Region (NH Community Action and Key Statewide Hubs)

Community Action Agencies (CAAs) deliver LIHEAP, Weatherization, and other local services. Use the links below or dial 211 NH for the closest office.

• Southern New Hampshire Services (Hillsborough & Rockingham Counties): SNHS
• Community Action Partnership of Strafford County: CAPSC
• Community Action Program Belknap-Merrimack Counties, Inc.: CAPBM
• Tri‑County Community Action Program (Coos, Carroll, Grafton): TCCAP
• Southwestern Community Services (Cheshire & Sullivan): SCS

Other important statewide hubs:

• ServiceLink (find your local office): ServiceLink NH locations
• New Hampshire Housing (voucher/public housing info): New Hampshire Housing
• Legal help: NH Legal Assistance • 603 Legal Aid
• Benefits application portal: NH EASY
• State health/aging services: NH DHHS
• General help directory: 211 NH

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Reality Checks, Warnings, and Practical Tips

• Keep a paper folder: Photo ID, Medicare/Medicaid cards, Social Security card, proof of NH address, leases, bank statements, medical bills, and doctor letters. You’ll be asked for these often.
• Waiting lists are real: Housing vouchers, home care aides, and Meals on Wheels routes can fill up. Put your name on lists early and stay in contact.
• Re‑determinations: Medicaid and SNAP require periodic reviews. Watch your mail and NH EASY messages. Missing deadlines can stop your benefits.
• Avoid scams: No one from Medicare or SSA will call asking for your full Medicare/SSN unless you called them first. Verify callers. Report issues at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
• Hospital or rehab? Ask for a “discharge planner” or social worker to help with CFI, home health, and equipment orders before you go home.

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Frequently Asked Questions (New Hampshire‑Specific)

Q1: How do I apply for the Choices for Independence (CFI) waiver?
A: Call or visit ServiceLink NH to request a screening. You’ll complete financial forms (through NH EASY) and a medical level‑of‑care assessment arranged by DHHS.

Q2: What are the current income and asset limits for Medicaid ABD or CFI?
A: Limits change yearly. Check the latest standards on NH DHHS or ask ServiceLink for a benefits checkup. Do not rely on last year’s numbers.

Q3: I’m on Medicare. Can I get help with my Part B premium?
A: Yes, through Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI). Learn what each covers at Medicaid.gov – MSPs and apply via NH EASY.

Q4: Is Meals on Wheels free in NH?
A: Many providers use a suggested donation model for eligible older adults. No one is turned away for inability to donate. Check availability and specifics with your local provider via the Eldercare Locator or 211 NH.

Q5: Who do I call to report elder abuse or financial exploitation?
A: Report through NH DHHS Adult Protective Services. Start at NH DHHS – Adult Protective Services for reporting instructions. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

Q6: Where can I get help picking a Medicare plan?
A: ServiceLink is NH’s SHIP and offers unbiased counseling. Contact ServiceLink NH.

Q7: How do I get help with heat or electricity?
A: Apply for LIHEAP (fuel assistance) through your local Community Action Agency—find it via 211 NH. For electric bill discounts, see the NH Department of Energy – EAP.

Q8: Where do I find property tax relief or exemptions?
A: Check the NH Department of Revenue Administration for the Low‑ and Moderate‑Income Homeowners Relief program and contact your town assessor for elderly/disabled and veterans exemptions.

Q9: I live in a rural area and can’t drive. What are my options?
A: Use 211 NH to find volunteer driver programs and ADA transit. If you have Medicaid, ask about NEMT rides for medical visits.

Q10: Does New Hampshire have Area Agencies on Aging like other states?
A: New Hampshire organizes aging and disability access through ServiceLink (the state’s Aging & Disability Resource Center) and the Bureau of Elderly and Adult Services within DHHS. Start with ServiceLink NH for navigation.

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Sources and Official Links (selected)

• New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (NH DHHS): https://www.dhhs.nh.gov
• NH EASY Benefits Portal: https://nheasy.nh.gov
• ServiceLink (NH Aging & Disability Resource Center): https://www.servicelink.nh.gov
• 211 New Hampshire: https://www.211nh.org
• New Hampshire Housing: https://www.nhhfa.org
• NH Department of Energy (EAP): https://www.energy.nh.gov
• NH Department of Revenue Administration: https://www.revenue.nh.gov
• Social Security Administration (SSI/SSDI/Extra Help): https://www.ssa.gov • Extra Help
• Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov
• Medicaid.gov – Medicare Savings Programs: https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/eligibility/medicare-savings-programs/index.html
• USDA Food and Nutrition Service (SNAP/SFMNP): https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap • https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp
• NH Food Bank – CSFP: https://nhfoodbank.org/programs/commodity-supplemental-food-program/
• DOE Weatherization Assistance Program: https://www.energy.gov/scep/wap/weatherization-assistance-program
• FCC Lifeline and ACP: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline • https://www.fcc.gov/acp
• VA Manchester Health Care: https://www.va.gov/manchester-health-care
• NH Office of Veterans Services: https://www.nh.gov/nhvet/
• Eldercare Locator (ACL): https://eldercare.acl.gov
• NH Human Rights Commission: https://www.nh.gov/hrc/
• HRSA Find a Health Center: https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov
• NH Legal Assistance and 603 Legal Aid: https://www.nhla.org • https://www.603legalaid.org
• U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts – New Hampshire: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/NH

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Disclaimer

Program rules, amounts, contacts, and availability change. This guide is for general information and is not legal advice or an official agency publication. Always verify details with the linked state or federal agency and consult a qualified professional for advice about your specific situation.

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About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

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

Our Commitment to You:

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

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026

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