Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in North Dakota

Last updated: August 2025

This guide brings together the most important benefits, contacts, and application steps for disabled seniors living in North Dakota. It focuses on state-specific programs and real, official sources. Keep it handy and share with family or caregivers.

---

Quick Help Box (always on hand)

Use these if you or a loved one needs help right now.

Reality check: If you’re unsure who to call, start with 211 or ADRL. They will connect you to the right North Dakota office.

---

Emergency help first: what to know in North Dakota

• Immediate danger: Call 911. If you can’t speak, try to text 911 (availability can vary by county).
• Mental health help: Call or text 988 any time. If you prefer local support, 211 can route you to North Dakota options.
• Elder abuse, neglect, exploitation: Call ADRL at 855-462-5465 or use the page for ND Aging & Disability Resource LINK. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 first.
• Severe weather and travel: Check the ND 511 Travel Information map before you go. Blizzards and flooding can change road conditions fast.
• Disaster recovery: If FEMA opens assistance, apply at DisasterAssistance.gov. Keep receipts and photos of damage.
• Utility shutoff crisis: Call your energy provider right away, then contact your local Human Service Zone or apply for help via North Dakota’s Apply for Help portal to ask about LIHEAP crisis assistance. See program details below.

Tip: Keep a simple “go bag” (medications, ID, list of doctors, phone numbers, chargers, hearing aids, and a copy of your Medicare/Medicaid card).

---

How to use this guide

• If you need a specific benefit, scroll to that section: health care, income, housing, transportation, food, legal help, or caregiving.
• Use the direct application links whenever possible (we favor official state and federal sites).
• If a link is unfamiliar, confirm it through the main sites: North Dakota Health and Human Services or applyforhelp.nd.gov.

Reality check: Programs change and sometimes pause funding. Always verify current rules with the agency listed.

---

Health care and long-term services

Medicare help in North Dakota

• State Health Insurance Counseling (SHIC): Free, unbiased help with Medicare choices, Part D drug plans, Medicare Advantage, Medigaps, and billing issues.
  Link: North Dakota Insurance Department – SHIC
• Extra Help for drug costs: Helps with Part D premiums and co-pays if your income and assets are limited.
  Link: Social Security – Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy)
• Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs): May pay your Part B premium and sometimes other costs if you qualify. Apply through ND Medicaid.
  Link: ND Medicaid

Reality check: Choosing a plan is not trivial. Take your drug list to a SHIC counselor and ask them to run a cost comparison for you. Be careful about phone solicitations.

North Dakota Medicaid for seniors and people with disabilities

• ND Medicaid covers doctor visits, hospitals, prescriptions, and long-term services for those who meet income, asset, and medical need rules.
  Info and how to apply: ND Medicaid and Apply for Help portal
• Long-Term Services & Supports (LTSS): May cover in-home care, personal care, adult day services, respite, equipment, and nursing facility care if you qualify. Most services require an assessment.
• Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers: Help you stay at home or in the community instead of a nursing facility. Ask ADRL for screening.
  Start here: ND Aging Services
• State-funded in‑home help: North Dakota has unique programs like SPED and Ex-SPED for people who need in-home support but may not qualify for Medicaid.
  Learn more via ADRL: ND Aging & Disability Resource LINK
• Basic Care Assistance Program (BCAP): Helps pay for Basic Care facilities (North Dakota’s licensed residential setting with services).
  Learn more via ND HHS: ND Aging Services
• PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly): Combines Medicare and Medicaid services, including adult day health and transportation, for those meeting nursing-home level of care but living in the community.
  Provider: Northland PACE
• Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): Rides or mileage reimbursement for eligible Medicaid members to medically necessary appointments.
  Start with ND Medicaid: ND Medicaid

Reality check: Financial eligibility and medical need rules can be strict. If you’re denied, ask for the denial in writing and how to appeal. ADRL can explain options.

Quick comparison: common ND programs

---

Income, cash, and tax relief

• Social Security Retirement/SSDI: Apply, manage benefits, and report changes at Social Security.
  Link: Social Security Administration
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Federal benefit for people with low income and assets who are age 65+ or have a qualifying disability.
  Apply: SSI at SSA.gov
  Note: North Dakota does not pay a separate state SSI supplement. See state supplement info here: SSA – State Supplementary Payments
• VA pensions and Aid & Attendance: Extra cash help for wartime veterans and surviving spouses who need daily assistance.
  Learn eligibility: VA Pension and Aid & Attendance
  Local help: ND Department of Veterans Affairs
• Property tax relief for seniors and people with disabilities: North Dakota’s Homestead Credit for homeowners and a Renter’s Refund may reduce what you owe if you meet income/asset limits.
  Details and forms: ND Office of State Tax Commissioner – Homestead Credit and Renter’s Refund

Reality check: Benefits can affect each other. Before you apply for something new, ask SHIC, ADRL, or a benefits counselor how it might change your current benefits.

---

Food and nutrition

• SNAP (food stamps): Monthly benefit on an EBT card to buy groceries.
  How to apply: North Dakota Apply for Help portal
  Program info: USDA SNAP
• Senior Nutrition Programs (Older Americans Act): Free or low-cost meals at senior centers and home-delivered meals for those who qualify. Nutrition counseling may be available.
  Get connected: ND Aging Services – Senior Nutrition
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal coupons for fruits and vegetables from farmers’ markets and farm stands for eligible seniors.
  Learn about SFMNP: USDA – SFMNP
  Ask locally: Contact ADRL or your senior center to see if SFMNP is offered in your county this season.

Reality check: Home-delivered meals often have waitlists in winter. Apply early and ask about frozen or shelf-stable options for storm days.

---

Housing and utilities

Keeping the lights and heat on

• LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program): Help with heating bills, weather-related emergencies, and sometimes furnace repair/replacement.
  Apply online: Apply for Help – ND
  Program info: ND Health and Human Services
• Weatherization Assistance: Free energy-saving improvements like insulation and sealing for eligible households, delivered by local Community Action agencies.
  Statewide info and local offices: Community Action Partnership of North Dakota
• Utility consumer protection and complaints: If you can’t resolve a dispute with your utility, contact the regulator.
  Link: North Dakota Public Service Commission – Consumer Info

Rent and accessible housing

• Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8): Rent assistance managed by local housing authorities. Waiting lists open and close.
  Find local PHAs (ND): HUD – Public Housing Agency Contacts
• Statewide affordable housing information:
  North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) provides information on affordable rentals and homeownership programs.
  Link: ND Housing Finance Agency
• Fair housing rights and accessibility:
  Learn and file complaints: HUD – Fair Housing

Snapshot: key housing and utility supports

Reality check: North Dakota winters drive up energy costs. If you miss a bill, call your utility immediately and your Human Service Zone the same day to ask about LIHEAP crisis aid.

---

Transportation and mobility

• Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): Rides or mileage reimbursement for eligible Medicaid members going to covered medical appointments.
  Start here: ND Medicaid
• Public transit and paratransit: Most cities and many rural areas have demand-response or fixed-route buses.
  Statewide information: North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) (see “Public Transit” for local providers)
• Mobility-impaired parking permits: Apply for disability parking placards through NDDOT.
  Forms and info: NDDOT Forms page

Reality check: Rural rides usually require advance scheduling. Ask your provider about how many days’ notice they need and if a personal attendant can ride along.

Common transit options by area (examples)

Tip: If your trip is for Medicare-covered services only (not Medicaid), ask your plan about transportation benefits. Some Medicare Advantage plans include rides.

---

Assistive technology, home modifications, and equipment

• ND Assistive (formerly IPAT): Device loans, demonstrations, reuse exchanges, and home modification consultations to help with vision, hearing, mobility, communication, and memory.
  Link: ND Assistive
• Home modifications through Medicaid/HCBS: Environmental modifications (ramps, grab bars, bathroom changes) may be covered for those on certain programs.
  Start at ADRL: Aging & Disability Resource LINK
• Durable Medical Equipment coverage: Medicare Part B and ND Medicaid may cover equipment with a doctor’s order. Check your plan for approved suppliers.

Reality check: Get a home safety assessment before installing expensive changes. Many falls are prevented with simple fixes like lighting, rugs, and railings.

---

Caregiving, respite, and long-term care rights

• Family Caregiver Support Program (Older Americans Act): Respite, training, and counseling for unpaid family caregivers.
  Learn more: ND Aging Services
• Lifespan Respite: Statewide coordination of respite options regardless of age or disability.
  Explore options via ADRL: ND ADRL
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Independent help with concerns in nursing homes and basic care/assisted living-like settings.
  File a complaint or ask a question: ND Aging Services – Ombudsman
• Guardianship and alternatives: Learn about powers of attorney and supported decision-making.
  General info: North Dakota Courts – Guardianship/Conservatorship Self-Help
• Fraud and scams: Report consumer scams to the Attorney General; report Medicare scams to the Senior Medicare Patrol.
  Consumer protection: ND Attorney General – Consumer Protection
  Medicare fraud help: ND Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP)

Reality check: If you think a facility is discharging you too soon or refusing to readmit you, call the Ombudsman right away. Keep copies of care plans and notices.

---

Legal help and disability rights

• Legal Services of North Dakota (LSND): Free civil legal help for eligible seniors and people with low income.
  Link: Legal Services of North Dakota
• North Dakota Protection & Advocacy Project (P&A): Disability rights, access issues, and advocacy.
  Link: ND Protection & Advocacy Project
• Lawyer referral: Find private elder law attorneys if you do not qualify for LSND.
  Link: State Bar Association of North Dakota
• Discrimination and workplace rights: File human rights and discrimination complaints.
  Link: ND Department of Labor and Human Rights

---

Internet, phone, and staying connected

• Lifeline: Federal discount for phone or internet for eligible households.
  Program info and how to apply: Lifeline Support (USAC)
• Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): As of mid‑2025, ACP has been paused due to lack of federal funding. Check for updates here:
  Status updates: FCC – ACP
• Broadband coverage and options:
  Check service availability: FCC Broadband Map
  State tech resources: North Dakota Information Technology

Reality check: If ACP remains paused, ask your internet provider about any senior or low-income discounts they offer directly.

---

Voting, identification, and records

• Voting information, accessible voting, and absentee ballots:
  Link: North Dakota Secretary of State – Elections and Vote Absentee
• State ID and driver licensing:
  Link: NDDOT – Driver’s License
• Vital records (birth, death, marriage):
  Link: ND Health – Vital Records (search “Vital Records” on the ND HHS site)

---

Inclusive supports

LGBTQ+ seniors

• Friendly support and information: SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline
• Local community and peer support: PFLAG – Find a Chapter
• Discrimination and human rights: ND Department of Labor and Human Rights

Tip: If you experience discrimination in housing or health care, document what happened and contact P&A or the Department of Labor and Human Rights.

Veteran seniors

• Health care and benefits: Fargo VA Health Care System
• Statewide help connecting to VA benefits and County VSOs: North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs
• Pensions and Aid & Attendance for in‑home care: VA Pension and A&A

Tip: Many counties have Veterans Service Officers who will fill out VA forms with you and track your claim.

Tribal-specific resources (for tribal elders and families in ND)

• State liaison and tribal contacts: North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission
• Indian Health Service in the region: IHS – Great Plains Area
• Housing, elder services, and benefits vary by tribe; check your tribal office or health department for elder programs, nutrition, and LIHEAP-like assistance.
  • Find tribal contacts via the Indian Affairs Commission link above.

Reality check: If you receive care through IHS or a tribal clinic, tell your providers about your Medicare/Medicaid coverage—coordination helps avoid surprise bills.

Rural seniors and families with limited access

• Transportation: Arrange rides early (48–72 hours) and ask about volunteer driver programs through your senior center or ADRL.
• Telehealth: Medicare and ND Medicaid cover many telehealth services. Ask your clinic about options if roads are closed.
• Mail-order pharmacy: Ask your plan or pharmacy to set this up before winter.
• Food deliveries: Check with your senior center or ND Aging Services – Senior Nutrition for home-delivered meals and wellness checks.

---

Resources by region (key contacts)

Use this as a starting point for local help. For full listings, call 211 or ADRL.

Note: Some smaller cities share housing authorities or rely on regional agencies. If a link is unclear, use the HUD PHA Contacts page or call ADRL.

---

Application steps and common pitfalls

• Use the state portal when you can: applyforhelp.nd.gov handles Medicaid, SNAP, LIHEAP, and related programs.
• Keep documents handy: ID, Social Security number, proof of income and assets, rent/utility bills, medical expense records.
• Don’t miss deadlines: If you get a notice, note the appeal window. You often have a short number of days to appeal.
• Renew on time: Benefits end if you miss recertification. Put reminders on a calendar or ask a family member to help track dates.
• Tell programs about changes: Report address changes, hospital stays, or income changes to avoid overpayments or interruptions.
• Estate recovery: Medicaid may seek recovery from estates for certain long-term care costs. Ask ND Medicaid for current rules: ND Medicaid

---

Tables you can print or save

1) Health coverage and support at a glance

2) Food and basics

3) Housing and utilities

4) Getting around

5) Legal and protection

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I find out if I qualify for ND Medicaid or an HCBS waiver?
   Start with an options counselor at ADRL: ND Aging & Disability Resource LINK. They’ll explain financial and medical criteria and help you apply through applyforhelp.nd.gov.
2. Does North Dakota add extra money to federal SSI?
   No. North Dakota does not pay a separate state SSI supplement. See: SSA – State Supplementary Payments.
3. I can’t afford my Medicare Part B premium. Is there help?
   Yes. The Medicare Savings Programs may pay your Part B premium if you qualify. Apply via ND Medicaid.
4. What’s the difference between Assisted Living and “Basic Care” in ND?
   “Basic Care” is a North Dakota-licensed residential setting with services. The Basic Care Assistance Program can help eligible residents pay costs. Ask ADRL or see ND Aging Services. Assisted living facilities vary; ask about licensing and costs before signing.
5. Can I get rides to medical appointments in rural areas?
   If you have Medicaid, ask about NEMT through ND Medicaid. If not, contact your local transit provider via NDDOT or ask your senior center about volunteer driver programs.
6. How do I report suspected elder abuse?
   If there’s immediate danger, call 911. Otherwise, call ADRL at 855-462-5465 or use ND Aging & Disability Resource LINK.
7. My power company is threatening shutoff. What can I do?
   Call the utility right away, then apply for LIHEAP at applyforhelp.nd.gov. If you’re still at risk, call your Human Service Zone and ask about crisis assistance. You can also seek advice from the ND Public Service Commission.
8. Are there free lawyers for seniors?
   If you qualify, contact Legal Services of North Dakota. For disability rights issues, contact ND Protection & Advocacy. For referrals, check the State Bar Association of North Dakota.
9. How do I get help choosing a Medicare Part D plan?
   Make a free appointment with SHIC. Bring your medication list and pharmacy.
10. Is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) still available?
    As of August 2025, ACP has been paused due to funding. Check the status at the FCC – ACP. The Lifeline program still operates: Lifeline Support.
11. What if I need a ramp or bathroom modifications?
    Ask ADRL about home safety and modification programs through HCBS waivers and state-funded services. For tools and demos, see ND Assistive.
12. I’m a veteran. Where should I start for benefits?
    Begin with your County Veterans Service Officer via the North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs. Health care info: Fargo VA Health Care System. Aid & Attendance: VA Pension and A&A.
13. Do seniors and people with disabilities get property tax relief?
    Yes. See the state’s Homestead Credit and Renter’s Refund programs: ND Tax – Homestead and Renter’s Refund. Check the latest income and asset rules before you apply.
14. How can LGBTQ+ elders find affirming services in North Dakota?
    Call the SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline for support and referrals, and use PFLAG – Find a Chapter for local community. For discrimination issues, contact ND Department of Labor and Human Rights.
15. Where do I check if roads are safe in winter?
    Use the ND 511 Travel Information map for real-time road conditions and closures.

---

Sources (official and well-established)

• North Dakota Health and Human Services (ND HHS): https://www.hhs.nd.gov
  • Aging & Disability Resource LINK (ADRL): https://www.hhs.nd.gov/adrl
  • Aging Services: https://www.hhs.nd.gov/aging
  • Medicaid: https://www.hhs.nd.gov/medicaid
• Apply for benefits (Medicaid, SNAP, LIHEAP): https://applyforhelp.nd.gov
• ND Insurance Department (SHIC/SMP): https://www.insurance.nd.gov/shic and SMP
• ND Public Service Commission (utilities): https://www.psc.nd.gov
• ND Housing Finance Agency: https://www.ndhfa.org
• HUD PHA contacts: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
• Community Action Partnership of North Dakota (Weatherization): https://www.capnd.org
• NDDOT (public transit, licensing, forms): https://www.dot.nd.gov
• ND 511 Travel Info: https://travel.dot.nd.gov
• ND Attorney General – Consumer Protection: https://attorneygeneral.nd.gov/consumer-resources/consumer-protection-division
• ND Legal Services: https://www.legalassist.org
• ND Protection & Advocacy Project: https://www.ndpanda.org
• ND Department of Labor and Human Rights: https://www.nd.gov/labor-human-rights
• ND Department of Veterans Affairs: https://www.nd.gov/veterans
• Fargo VA Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/fargo-health-care/
• Social Security (SSI, SSDI, Extra Help): https://www.ssa.gov
• USDA SNAP directory: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory
• USDA SFMNP: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org
• DisasterAssistance.gov: https://www.disasterassistance.gov
• ND Secretary of State – Elections: https://sos.nd.gov/elections
• ND Information Technology: https://www.ndit.nd.gov
• Lifeline: https://www.lifelinesupport.org
• FCC ACP: https://www.fcc.gov/acp
• ND Indian Affairs Commission: https://www.indianaffairs.nd.gov
• IHS Great Plains Area: https://www.ihs.gov/greatplains/
• Northland PACE: https://www.northlandpace.com
• ND Tax – Homestead Credit & Renter’s Refund: https://www.tax.nd.gov

---

Disclaimer

Program rules, funding levels, and eligibility can change. This guide is for general information and is not legal or financial advice. Always confirm details with the official agency or program website linked in each section.

---

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.