Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Washington (2026 Authority Guide)

Last updated: January 22, 2026

This is a practical, state-specific guide to help disabled seniors in Washington find benefits, apply with confidence, and avoid common snags. Links go to official government or well‑established organizations. Program rules change, so always double‑check details using the sources provided.

Quick Help Box (always visible)

Use this table to find help fast. If you’re in danger, call 911.

How to use this guide

• Start with Emergency Help if you need immediate support.
• Then skim the tables to find the right program (health care, cash, food, housing, transportation).
• Use the step-by-step tips and links to apply, then call your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) if you get stuck: Find your AAA.

Reality check: Getting benefits can take time. Paperwork, waitlists, and eligibility checks are normal. Don’t give up—use the phone numbers and links in this guide, keep copies of your papers, and ask for help from your AAA or SHIBA when you need it.

Emergency help now (details)

• Abuse, neglect, or exploitation: Report to Adult Protective Services. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911. For non-urgent reporting, use 1‑866‑ENDHARM or the APS site: Report to APS (DSHS).
• Crisis counseling: Call or text 988 or visit 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Veterans can press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line or text 838255: Veterans Crisis Line.
• Emergency shelter and food: Call 211 or search Washington 211 for local shelters, food banks, and emergency rental help.
• Eviction or legal trouble: Call CLEAR (legal aid) at 1‑888‑201‑1014 (seniors 60+: 1‑888‑387‑7111) or visit WashingtonLawHelp – Housing.
• Medical emergency: Call 911. For urgent care coverage questions, call your health plan ID card number or Apple Health customer service: HCA Apple Health contact.

Core Washington benefits for disabled seniors

Here are the main programs most readers will use. Click each link for the official page and current rules.

Apple Health (Medicaid) and Long-Term Care

• Apple Health (Medicaid) for seniors and people with disabilities is run by the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA). It can cover doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, medical equipment, and more. Learn more and apply: Apple Health for Seniors/ABD (HCA).
• Long-Term Services & Supports are managed by DSHS Aging and Long-Term Support Administration (ALTSA). These include in‑home help with daily tasks, adult family homes, assisted living, and nursing homes. Overview: ALTSA programs (DSHS).

Key in-home and caregiver programs:

• Community First Choice (CFC): Personal care at home for people with Medicaid who need help with daily activities. Info: Community First Choice (DSHS).
• COPES Waiver: Home and community-based services (like in-home caregivers or residential settings) for people who meet nursing home level of care. Info: COPES Waiver (DSHS).
• Medicaid Alternative Care (MAC): Supports unpaid family caregivers when the care receiver is eligible for Medicaid but not using personal care benefits. Info: MAC & TSOA (DSHS).
• Tailored Supports for Older Adults (TSOA): Help for people age 55+ who are not on Medicaid, including caregiver training, respite, and personal assistance. Info: MAC & TSOA (DSHS).
• Program of All‑Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE): Combines Medicare and Medicaid services for very frail seniors, with day center care, transportation, and in‑home support. See who offers PACE in Washington: PACE in Washington (HCA).

How to apply:

• Use Washington Connection to apply for Apple Health, food, or cash: Washington Connection.
• Or call your local Home & Community Services (HCS) office to ask about CFC/COPES and to schedule an assessment: Find HCS Offices.

Common snags:

• Financial eligibility and functional assessments take time. Return calls quickly and keep copies of all forms.
• If you’re denied but your health has worsened or you have new expenses, you can ask for a reassessment or appeal. See: DSHS Appeals.

Quick comparison: Long-term services and caregiver support

Cash, income, and disability benefits

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Social Security retirement: Apply or manage benefits at SSA: Social Security (SSA.gov).
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Needs‑based cash for people 65+ or disabled. Current payment amounts change yearly. Check the latest rates and apply: SSI at SSA.gov. Washington also has a limited State Supplementary Payment (SSP) for certain SSI recipients (for example, some in licensed residential settings). Details: SSP (DSHS).
• Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) cash assistance: Small monthly cash program for people who are likely to meet SSI disability rules. ABD can be a bridge while you apply for SSI. Learn more and apply: ABD Cash (DSHS).
• Housing and Essential Needs (HEN): For some adults who cannot work due to disability (not on SSI). Provides rent and utility help through local agencies. HEN is by referral from DSHS. Overview: HEN (DSHS).

Medicare Savings Programs and drug help:

• Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) can pay your Medicare Part B premium and sometimes co-pays. Check income limits and apply through HCA: Medicare Savings Programs (HCA).
• Extra Help (Low‑Income Subsidy) lowers drug costs. Apply at SSA: Apply for Extra Help (SSA).

Free counseling:

• SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) offers unbiased help with Medicare, Medigap, Part D, Advantage plans, appeals, and savings programs. Contact: SHIBA (OIC) or call 1‑800‑562‑6900.

Food and nutrition

• Basic Food (SNAP): Helps buy groceries. Apply at Washington Connection. Program info: Basic Food (DSHS).
• Meals on Wheels and community dining: Run by Area Agencies on Aging. Find your AAA: AAA Directory (DSHS).
• Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Provides coupons for fresh produce from local farmers. Info and eligibility: Senior Farmers Market (WSDA).
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP – Senior Food Box): Monthly shelf‑stable boxes for income‑eligible seniors. Program details: CSFP in Washington (WSDA).

Tip: If shopping is hard, ask your SNAP caseworker about authorized shoppers or delivery options. For home‑delivered meals, ask your AAA about waitlists and how to get priority if you’re homebound.

Health care and dental

• Apple Health for Adults (Medicaid) covers medical and dental for eligible adults, including seniors. Details: Adult Dental Benefits (HCA) and Find a dentist (HCA).
• Medicare only covers limited dental. If you need a dentist, try DentistLink (Arcora Foundation) or call 1‑844‑888‑5465 for referrals based on insurance and income.
• Medical equipment and supplies: Your doctor must prescribe. For Medicaid, use HCA’s provider pages and your health plan. For Medicare, ask SHIBA about coverage rules.

Transportation and mobility

Tip: If you’re approved for ADA paratransit, ask about eligibility for a personal care attendant to ride free. For Medicaid rides, book early and confirm pickup windows.

Housing, utilities, and home repairs

• Property Tax Relief: Washington offers exemptions and deferrals for seniors and people with disabilities. Income limits and rules vary by county. Start here: Senior/Disabled Property Tax Exemption (WA Dept. of Revenue).
• Weatherization Assistance: Free energy‑saving repairs for eligible households. Info and local providers: Weatherization (WA Dept. of Commerce).
• Energy bills: LIHEAP is federal energy help administered locally. Start at 211 or visit Commerce: Low‑Income Energy Assistance (Commerce).
• Utility discounts (examples):
  • Seattle: Utility Discount Program for City Light and SPU.
  • Puget Sound Energy: PSE Bill Discount Rate and assistance programs.
  • Tacoma Public Utilities: Customer Assistance.
    Check your utility’s website for “assistance” or call 211.
• Rent help: HEN (for some disabled adults not on SSI; by referral): HEN Program (DSHS). For Section 8 or public housing waitlists, see HUD’s PHA directory: Find your housing authority (HUD WA).
• Home repairs:
  • USDA Rural Development Section 504 grants/loans for very low‑income rural homeowners: USDA Single Family Repair (Section 504).
  • Veterans may qualify for VA Specially Adapted Housing grants: VA SAH Grants.
  • Local programs vary; call your AAA or 211.

Table: Key housing and utility resources

Reality check: Rental aid funds open and close, and waitlists are common. Apply early, answer phone calls, and keep documents ready (ID, lease, proof of income/disability).

Assistive technology and accessibility

• Washington Assistive Technology Act Program (WATAP): Device demos, short‑term loans, and reuse resources. Start here: WATAP (University of Washington).
• Washington Department of Services for the Blind (DSB): Orientation/mobility, technology training, and job services for people with vision loss. Info: DSB Services.
• State Parks and Recreation discounts: Disability and Disabled Veteran passes reduce camping and park fees. Details: Washington State Parks passes.
• Fish & Wildlife disability licenses: Reduced cost hunting/fishing for qualifying disabilities. Info: WDFW Reduced-Rate Licenses.

Legal protections and elder rights

• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Independent help for residents of nursing homes, assisted living, and adult family homes. File complaints and get advocacy: WA State LTC Ombudsman.
• Adult Protective Services: Report abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation: APS (DSHS).
• Discrimination: Washington law protects against discrimination based on disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity in housing, public places, and employment. File a complaint or learn more: WA State Human Rights Commission.
• Legal help and forms: Free resources for seniors and caregivers: WashingtonLawHelp.org. Look for powers of attorney, guardianship alternatives, and tenant rights.

Medicare, Medicaid, and how they work together

• Medicare is federal health insurance (usually A and B at 65, or earlier with disability). It doesn’t cover long‑term personal care at home.
• Apple Health (Medicaid) can work with Medicare to cover costs Medicare won’t, if you qualify by income and assets. For help, talk with SHIBA: SHIBA counseling.

Common cost‑savers:

• Medicare Savings Programs pay your Part B premium if your income is under limits: MSP info (HCA).
• Extra Help lowers drug costs: SSA Extra Help.
• PACE can replace multiple plans with a single care team if you qualify: PACE (HCA).

Washington long-term care settings

• In‑home services: Through CFC or COPES. Your care plan may include a paid caregiver, home-delivered meals, and an emergency response system.
• Adult Family Homes: Small homes (usually 6 or fewer residents) licensed by DSHS. Some accept Medicaid. Directory and info: Adult Family Homes (DSHS).
• Assisted Living Facilities and Enhanced Adult Residential Care: Larger settings with services; some accept Medicaid contracts. Licensing info: Residential Care Services (DSHS).
• Nursing Homes: For higher medical needs. Learn about coverage and find facilities: Nursing Home Care (DSHS).

Tip: Use the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman if you need help comparing homes or resolving problems: WA LTC Ombudsman.

Transportation and mobility table (at a glance)

Special focus: Inclusive resources

LGBTQ+ seniors

• GenPride (Seattle): Programs, classes, and navigation help for LGBTQ+ older adults. Info: GenPride.
• State protections: Washington bars discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Learn your rights: WA Human Rights Commission.
• Long‑term care environments: If you face bias in a facility, contact the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman for help.

Veteran seniors

• Washington Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA): Benefits navigation, counseling, and State Veterans Homes (Orting, Port Orchard, Spokane, Walla Walla). Start here: WDVA.
• VA health and Aid & Attendance: May increase your monthly pension for care needs. Info and how to apply: VA Aid & Attendance.
• County Veterans Assistance Programs: Emergency help in many counties. Contact list through WDVA: County Veterans Programs.

Tribal elders and Native seniors

• Many Washington Tribes operate Title VI elder services (meals, transportation, caregiver support). Start with your Tribe’s social services office or AAA tribal liaison.
• Washington State Department of Social and Health Services – Office of Indian Policy: DSHS Office of Indian Policy.
• Governor’s Office of Indian Affairs – Tribal Directory: GOIA Tribal Directory.
• Indian Health Service (Portland Area) resources: IHS Portland Area.

Tip: If you’re eligible for IHS or Tribal health, you can still use Medicare and Medicaid. Coordinate with your Tribal clinic for referrals and coverage questions.

Rural seniors and families (limited access)

• Transportation: Check for community shuttles and dial‑a‑ride through your county transit or AAA. Medicaid rides: NEMT (HCA).
• Telehealth: Apple Health and Medicare cover many telehealth services. Ask your clinic about phone visits if internet is limited.
• Home repairs: Rural homeowners may qualify for USDA Section 504.
• Food access: Use Washington 211 for mobile food pantries and home delivery options; ask your AAA about Meals on Wheels.

Finding help in your region

Your Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is your best one‑stop for local services like Meals on Wheels, caregiver support, options counseling, and health classes. Find yours here: Area Agencies on Aging Directory (DSHS).

Examples of AAAs and service areas (not a full list—use the directory for complete coverage):

• Aging and Disability Services – Seattle/King County: ADS – Seattle/King County.
• Pierce County Aging & Disability Resources: Pierce ADR.
• Snohomish County Aging & Disability Services: Snohomish ADR.
• Northwest Regional Council (Island, San Juan, Skagit, Whatcom): NWRC.
• Olympic Area Agency on Aging (Clallam, Jefferson, Grays Harbor, Pacific): O3A.
• Lewis‑Mason‑Thurston Area Agency on Aging: LMTAAA.
• Kitsap County Division of Aging & Long‑Term Care: Kitsap Aging.
• Aging & Long Term Care of Southwest Washington (Clark, Cowlitz, Klickitat, Skamania, Wahkiakum): ALTC SW WA Note: verify coverage; directory has the most current info.
• Aging & Long Term Care of Eastern Washington (Spokane and surrounding counties): ALTCEW.
• Southeast Washington Aging & Long Term Care (Asotin, Columbia, Garfield, Walla Walla): SE WA ALTC.

Also useful:

• Washington State AAA network page (central hub): DSHS AAA Directory.
• DSHS Home & Community Services Offices (for Medicaid long‑term care): Find HCS Offices.
• SHIBA local counseling sites: Find SHIBA help near you.

The Washington application toolbox (step‑by‑step)

1. Identify what you need

• Health coverage? Start at Apple Health ABD or Medicare Savings Programs.
• Help at home? Ask ALTSA/HCS about CFC or COPES.
• Money is tight? Look at SSI/SSDI, ABD cash, and Basic Food.

2. Apply online or by phone

• Washington Connection for Apple Health, Basic Food, ABD: Washington Connection.
• SSI/SSDI: Apply with Social Security.
• Caregiver support (MAC/TSOA): Contact your AAA: AAA Directory.

3. Prepare documents

• ID, Social Security number, proof of Washington residency.
• Proof of income and assets (bank statements, benefit letters).
• Medical records showing your need for help with daily tasks.

4. Keep track

• Save copies of applications and letters.
• Write down phone calls (date, name, what was said).

5. If denied or delayed

• Ask what’s missing and how to fix it.
• Appeal if needed: DSHS Fair Hearings or get help from WashingtonLawHelp.

Program cheat sheet: health and care

Money‑saving tips that many miss

• Property tax relief can save thousands a year if your income fits your county’s limits: Dept. of Revenue – Senior/Disabled Relief.
• Medicare Savings Programs can pay your Part B premium: MSP (HCA).
• Extra Help lowers drug plan premiums and copays: SSA Extra Help.
• Meals and groceries through your AAA and SNAP: AAA Directory and Basic Food (DSHS).
• If family provides care, ask about MAC/TSOA to support them: MAC & TSOA.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: I can’t do housework or bathing safely. What program helps with in‑home care?

• Start with Apple Health (Medicaid) and ask for an assessment for Community First Choice (CFC). If you meet nursing home level of care and financial rules, COPES may offer more choices. Contact your local HCS office: Find HCS Offices.

Q: I’m over 65 and live on Social Security only. Can I get help paying Medicare costs?

• Possibly. Medicare Savings Programs can pay your Part B premium if your income and assets fit the rules. Apply through HCA or call SHIBA for help: MSP (HCA), SHIBA.

Q: I’m a homeowner. Are there programs to lower my property taxes in Washington?

• Yes. Washington’s Senior/Disabled property tax exemption and deferral are run by county assessors under state law. Check eligibility and how to apply: WA Dept. of Revenue – Property Tax Relief.

Q: How do I get rides to medical appointments if I’m on Apple Health (Medicaid)?

• Use Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). Find your county broker and book rides: NEMT (HCA).

Q: I can’t afford dental care. What are my options?

• Apple Health covers adult dental if you’re eligible: Adult Dental (HCA). If you’re on Medicare only, look for plans that include dental or use DentistLink for low‑cost options.

Q: My caregiver (family) needs a break and training. Any help?

• Yes. Medicaid Alternative Care (MAC) and Tailored Supports for Older Adults (TSOA) can offer caregiver training and respite. Contact your AAA: Find your AAA.

Q: I think my nursing home isn’t treating me fairly. Who can help?

• The Long‑Term Care Ombudsman investigates complaints in licensed long‑term care homes. Contact: WA LTC Ombudsman.

Q: Is there an easy way to apply for food, medical, and cash at once?

• Yes. Use Washington Connection to apply for Apple Health, Basic Food, and ABD cash in one place.

Q: I’m a disabled veteran. Can I get state help beyond the VA?

• WDVA can connect you to benefits, county programs, and state veterans homes. Start here: WDVA. For medical needs, also look at Apple Health and caregiver programs.

Q: Where can I report financial exploitation?

• Call APS at 1‑866‑ENDHARM or report online: Report to APS (DSHS). If it involves a facility, you can also call the LTC Ombudsman.

Key contacts by need (one more table)

Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Income rules matter: Many programs have income and asset limits. If you’re close to the limit, ask an eligibility worker or SHIBA how medical expenses or certain costs may be counted.
• Waitlists: Meals, home care hours, and housing can have waitlists. Apply anyway and ask about priority status if you’re at risk of institutionalization or homelessness.
• Scams: Government agencies won’t ask you to pay fees with gift cards. Verify calls by using official phone numbers from the links in this guide.
• Keep documents: Save SSA letters, bank statements, and medical notes. It speeds up approvals and appeals.

Sources and official references used throughout

• Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA): Apple Health/Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, NEMT
  • Apple Health ABD: HCA ABD Coverage
  • MSP: Help paying Medicare costs
  • NEMT: Transportation brokers
  • PACE: PACE in Washington
• Washington State DSHS – Aging and Long‑Term Support Administration (ALTSA)
  • ALTSA overview: DSHS ALTSA
  • CFC: Community First Choice
  • COPES/waivers: HCS Waivers
  • MAC/TSOA: MAC & TSOA
  • APS: Report abuse/neglect
  • HCS Offices: Find local office
  • ABD/SSP/HEN: ABD cash • SSP • HEN
• Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC)
  • SHIBA: Medicare counseling
• WA Dept. of Revenue
  • Property tax relief: Senior/Disabled exemptions
• WA Dept. of Commerce
  • Energy/Weatherization: Energy Assistance • Weatherization
• USDA Rural Development
  • Home Repair (Section 504): Washington program page
• Washington State Human Rights Commission
  • Anti‑discrimination: HUM.WA.gov
• Washington State Ferries
  • Fares/discounts: WSF Fares
• Sound Transit
  • RRFP: Reduced Fare Permit
• WA Dept. of Licensing
  • Disabled parking: DOL Disabled Parking
• Washington State Parks
  • Passes: Parks Passes
• WA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife
  • Disability licenses: WDFW Disability
• USDA/WSDA Food Programs
  • SFMNP: Senior Farmers Market
  • CSFP: Senior Food Box
• Social Security Administration
  • SSI and Extra Help: SSI • Extra Help
• Washington LawHelp / Northwest Justice Project
  • Legal info and CLEAR lines: WashingtonLawHelp.org
• Washington 211
  • Local help finder: WA 211
• Washington State Long‑Term Care Ombudsman
  • Complaints/advocacy: WA Ombudsman
• Washington DVA
  • Veterans services: WDVA
• University of Washington
  • WATAP: Assistive Technology
• Department of Services for the Blind
  • DSB Services

Disclaimer

Program rules, amounts, eligibility, and contact details can change at any time. Always confirm with the official agency or program website linked in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, or medical 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: 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.