Emergency Assistance, Resources, and Programs for Seniors in Indiana

Last updated: August 2025

Note on updates: Program rules and contact details can change. We link directly to official sources so you can confirm the latest information, and we point out where amounts and dates are set each year.

Quick Help Box (keep this handy)

Use this as your first-stop list during a crisis.

Reality check: If phone lines are busy, try calling early morning, use speakerphone, and keep a short list of facts ready (full name, date of birth, address, last four of SSN, any case numbers, landlord/utility account). If you can, ask a family member or neighbor to sit with you while you call.

What this guide covers and how to use it

• Starts with emergency steps, then housing, food, healthcare/insurance, money and bills, safety, transportation, and legal help.
• Focuses on Indiana programs and offices, with direct links to official pages.
• Includes special sections for LGBTQ+ seniors, veterans, tribal members, and rural residents.
• Has “Resources by Region” and an FAQ at the end.

1) Emergency Steps in Indiana

A. Danger right now

• Call 911 if anyone is in danger.
• If you can’t speak safely, try to keep the line open and the dispatcher can listen.
• After emergency responders arrive, ask for a welfare check referral and any local senior contacts.

B. Elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation

• Call Indiana Adult Protective Services at 800-992-6978 or submit a report via the state page: Adult Protective Services – Indiana FSSA Division of Aging.
• Abuse can be physical, emotional, financial, or neglect. You do not need proof to report—just a reasonable concern.
• If it involves a licensed facility (nursing home/assisted living), also contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman: State Long-Term Care Ombudsman – FSSA.

C. Can’t pay rent or you’re being evicted

• Call 211 and ask for “rent assistance, eviction prevention, and legal aid.”
• Call your Township Trustee (Indiana’s “poor relief” for emergencies is handled locally under Indiana Code 12-20). The trustee can sometimes help with rent, utilities, burial, and essentials. Learn your township office via your county’s website or the association directory: Indiana Township Association – Find Your Township. Also see the law: Indiana Code 12-20 (Assistance to the Poor).
• Seek free legal help quickly: Indiana Legal Help (Statewide Portal) and Indiana Legal Services.

D. Utility shutoff notice or past due bill

• If you are enrolled in Indiana’s Energy Assistance Program (EAP), regulated utilities must follow winter disconnection protections (generally Dec. 1–Mar. 15). Details and exceptions: Disconnection Rules – Indiana OUCC.
• Apply for EAP as soon as possible: Energy Assistance Program – IHCDA. Many agencies use the portal: eap.ihcda.in.gov.
• If you use life-sustaining medical equipment, ask your utility about medical certifications and special protections; see consumer guidance at the OUCC: Utility Disconnections – OUCC.

E. Food today

• Find a pantry or meal site via 211 or your Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for home-delivered or congregate meals: Find your local AAA – FSSA.
• “Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program” vouchers may be available during the season; check the Indiana Department of Health page: SFMNP – Indiana Department of Health and ask your AAA. Also see USDA’s Indiana contacts: USDA SFMNP State Contacts.

F. Health insurance and medical bills

• Medicare decisions or disputes: call Indiana SHIP at 800-452-4800.
• Medicaid or long-term services: start at FSSA Benefits or call 800-403-0864.
• Emotional crisis or grief: Be Well Indiana has mental health resources; for immediate help call 988.

2) Who to call for common emergencies

Sources: Indiana 211, FSSA Division of Aging, Indiana OUCC, Indiana Legal Help, APS – FSSA.

3) Essential Indiana Programs for Seniors (What they are and how they help)

The programs below cover the basics: housing, food, healthcare, and bills. We explain what they do in plain language and link you to the official page to apply or check current rules.

A. Housing and homelessness prevention

• Township Trustee “Poor Relief”
  • What it is: Local emergency help for basic needs (rent, utilities, burial, and more) required under state law (Indiana Code 12-20).
  • What it does: Each township sets its own standards and may cover part of back rent or a payment plan with landlords/utilities.
  • Who runs it: Your Township Trustee office. Find it via your county website or use the Indiana Township Association directory.
  • Reality check: Rules and amounts vary widely. You’ll need to show need (bills, shutoff notice, ID). Bring documents.
• IHCDA Homelessness and Housing Resources
  • What it is: Indiana’s statewide housing and homelessness coordination (ESG/CoC programs, landlord-tenant information).
  • What it does: Connects you to local partners for shelter, rapid rehousing, and rent help when funds exist.
  • Who runs it: Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority.
  • Tip: Call 211 and ask to be connected to “Coordinated Entry” for your region.
• USDA Rural Development Housing (for rural seniors)
  • What it is: Repair grants/loans for very low-income homeowners ages 62+ (Section 504); some rental properties offer reduced rent.
  • What it does: Home safety repairs (e.g., roofs, hazards) or connects you to affordable rental housing.
  • Who runs it: USDA Rural Development – Indiana.
  • Warning: Paperwork-heavy; ask your AAA or a local nonprofit to help you apply.
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman
  • What it is: Independent help for residents of nursing homes and assisted living.
  • What it does: Resolves complaints about care, rights, and discharges.
  • Who runs it: Indiana Long-Term Care Ombudsman – FSSA.
  • Tip: Keep a notebook of dates, staff names, and issues; it helps the ombudsman act faster.

B. Utilities and weatherization

• Energy Assistance Program (EAP/LIHEAP)
  • What it is: Helps with winter heating and sometimes summer cooling costs.
  • What it does: One-time benefit paid to your utility; some agencies may offer crisis help if you have a shutoff notice.
  • Who runs it: IHCDA. Apply at eap.ihcda.in.gov or through your local agency.
  • Reality check: Funding is limited and seasonal. Apply early each cycle. Income limits are based on state median income; see the current chart on IHCDA’s page.
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
  • What it is: Free home energy improvements (insulation, air sealing, furnace safety).
  • What it does: Cuts bills and improves comfort; health and safety repairs may be done if needed for energy work.
  • Who runs it: IHCDA Weatherization.
  • Tip: If you receive EAP, ask your local agency to refer you for WAP.
• Utility disconnection protections
  • What it is: State rules that limit winter shutoffs and require notice procedures.
  • What it does: If you’re on EAP, regulated utilities must follow winter moratorium rules (generally Dec. 1–Mar. 15).
  • Who runs it: Indiana OUCC disconnections guidance.
  • Warning: Co-ops and municipal utilities may have different rules. Always call and ask.

C. Food and nutrition

• SNAP (Food Stamps)
  • What it is: Monthly grocery benefit on an EBT card.
  • What it does: Helps buy food at stores and some farmers’ markets. Seniors can deduct medical costs to potentially qualify or raise benefits.
  • Who runs it: FSSA Division of Family Resources. Apply at FSSA benefits.
  • Tip: Keep receipts for out-of-pocket medical expenses; they can help your caseworker calculate your benefit.
• Home-Delivered and Congregate Meals
  • What it is: Meals delivered to your home or served at senior centers.
  • What it does: Provides regular nutritious meals, wellness checks, and social contact.
  • Who runs it: Your local AAA: Find your AAA – FSSA.
  • Reality check: There may be waitlists. Ask about short-term “emergency meals” if available.
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP – “Senior Box”)
  • What it is: Monthly USDA food package for income-eligible seniors.
  • What it does: Shelf-stable items like cereal, canned protein, cheese.
  • Who runs it: Local food banks administer with USDA oversight. Check the state contacts via USDA: USDA CSFP State Contacts.
  • Tip: In many Indiana counties, Gleaners Food Bank and partners manage CSFP; ask 211 or your AAA.

D. Health coverage and long-term services

• Medicare basics and counseling
  • What it is: Federal health insurance for 65+ and some disabilities, with options like Part D (drugs) and Medicare Advantage.
  • What it does: Covers hospital, outpatient, and drug costs. Choices affect your doctors and bills.
  • Who helps: Indiana SHIP at 800-452-4800 provides free, unbiased counseling.
  • Tip: Take your drug list, doctor list, and preferred pharmacy to your SHIP appointment.
• Indiana Medicaid for seniors and people with disabilities
  • What it is: Coverage for low-income Hoosiers, plus long-term services at home or in facilities.
  • What it does: Pays for care your Medicare may not (e.g., long-term services and supports).
  • Where to start: FSSA Benefits Portal or 800-403-0864. Learn more at Indiana Medicaid.
  • Reality check: Income and asset rules are strict and change. Bring ID, Social Security card, bank statements, and medical bills to appointments.
• Indiana PathWays for Aging (managed long-term services)
  • What it is: Indiana’s managed care program for older adults receiving long-term services and supports.
  • What it does: Coordinates in-home services, nursing facility care, care management, and transportation through managed care entities.
  • Who runs it: FSSA – Long-Term Services & Supports.
  • Tip: Keep a written care plan and the phone number of your care manager; report missed visits promptly.
• HoosierRx (Medicare Part D premium help)
  • What it is: State help toward Part D prescription premiums for low-income seniors who don’t qualify for full Extra Help.
  • What it does: Pays part of your monthly drug plan premium directly to the plan.
  • Who runs it: HoosierRx – Indiana FSSA.
  • Tip: Apply even if you’re not sure. If denied, ask SHIP whether Extra Help is an option.
• Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI)
  • What it is: Medicaid programs that pay Medicare Part A/B premiums and sometimes deductibles or coinsurance for low-income seniors.
  • What it does: Can save you significant money each month.
  • Who runs it: Apply through FSSA Benefits. Learn general rules at Medicare.gov – Save on costs.
  • Reality check: Income/resource limits change yearly. Check the current limits with SHIP or FSSA.

E. Money, taxes, and legal protections

• Property Tax Relief for Seniors
  • What it is: Over-65 Deduction and Over-65 Circuit Breaker Credit for homeowners meeting income/value limits.
  • What it does: Reduces your property tax bill.
  • Who runs it: Your county auditor; state rules at the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance.
  • Tip: File on time with proof of age, income, and property information.
• Indiana Attorney General – Consumer Protection
  • What it is: State office that takes complaints about scams, robocalls, and unfair business practices.
  • What it does: Investigates and can act against bad actors; educates consumers.
  • Contact: Consumer Protection Division.
  • Reality check: Getting money back is not guaranteed. Report quickly and also notify your bank.
• Free/Low-Cost Civil Legal Help
  • Indiana Legal Services: indianalegalservices.org or 844-243-8570.
  • Indiana Legal Help (self-help forms, referrals): indianalegalhelp.org.
  • Court self-help: Indiana Courts – Self-Service Legal Center.

4) At-a-glance: Program finder for Indiana seniors

Use this quick table to find the right door to knock on first.

5) Utility protection calendar (know your dates)

Reality check: Dates can shift each year. Always click through to the official page for the current cycle.

6) Health coverage in Indiana: Medicare, Medicaid, and prescriptions

Indiana SHIP can be your “one-call” helper

• Call 800-452-4800 or visit Indiana SHIP.
• They help compare Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap, find drug plans, check Extra Help eligibility, and fix billing problems.

Medicaid and long-term services

• Start at FSSA Benefits or call 800-403-0864.
• Indiana is moving long-term services into managed care under “PathWays for Aging,” coordinated by FSSA: FSSA – LTSS.
• If you receive home care, you will have a care manager and a service plan. Keep copies. Report missed visits to your care manager and AAA.

Prescription help

• HoosierRx: State help with Part D premiums for some low-income seniors: HoosierRx.
• Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy): Federal help that can cut drug costs significantly: Apply at SSA.
• Drug manufacturer patient assistance: Ask SHIP or your pharmacist about programs managed through NeedyMeds or Medicare.gov drug cost resources.

7) Food security in Indiana

• Apply for SNAP online: FSSA Benefits Portal.
• Call your AAA for home-delivered meals or nearby congregate sites: Find your AAA – FSSA.
• CSFP “Senior Boxes” and pantries: Use 211 or check USDA’s directory for Indiana: USDA CSFP Contacts.
• Farmers’ markets: Ask about the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program at your AAA or see Indiana Department of Health – Nutrition Programs.

Reality check: Programs often have waitlists near the end of funding periods. Ask about temporary or emergency boxes.

8) Transportation

• Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT): If you have Medicaid, your plan or care manager can arrange rides to medical appointments. Start by calling the number on your Medicaid card or your care manager (PathWays enrollees).
• Public transit and county ride programs: See providers by county via INDOT Public Transit.
• Volunteer ride programs: Ask your AAA; many coordinate volunteer drivers for seniors.

Tip: Book rides several days ahead and keep appointment times and pickup locations handy.

9) Safety, scams, and financial abuse

• Report scams: Indiana Attorney General – Consumer Protection.
• Medicare fraud: Report Medicare fraud.
• Social Security scams: SSA Office of the Inspector General.
• Elder financial abuse: Call APS at 800-992-6978 and notify your bank’s fraud department.

Tip: Use call blocking, never share one-time codes, and let unknown calls go to voicemail. If pressured, hang up and call the official number on your card or bill.

10) Veterans, LGBTQ+, Tribal, and Rural seniors

Veterans in Indiana

• Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA): Benefits help and County Veterans Service Officers directory: IDVA.
• VA health care and pensions (including Aid & Attendance for long-term care): U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
• VA Crisis Line: 988, then press 1.
• Tip: Take your DD-214 to your County Veterans Service Officer for a full benefits review.

LGBTQ+ seniors

• SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline: 877-360-LGBT (5428) – SAGE Hotline.
• Fair housing and discrimination: File with the Indiana Civil Rights Commission if you face discrimination in housing, employment, or public accommodations.
• Inclusive local services: Ask your AAA about LGBTQ+-affirming senior centers or friendly visitor programs.

Reality check: Social isolation can be higher for LGBTQ+ elders. Ask about friendly visitors, peer groups, and tele-friendly check-ins through your AAA or 211.

Tribal-specific resources in Indiana

• Pokagon Band of Potawatomi (serves parts of Northern Indiana): Elders programs and services for enrolled members; see Pokagon Band – Elders. Call the Elders Council office listed on the site for details.
• Indian Health Service resources and referrals (even if there’s no local clinic): IHS – Find Health Care.
• National Indian Council on Aging (NICOA) resources: NICOA.

Tip: If you’re an enrolled tribal member living in Indiana, ask your tribe’s elders program about nutrition, transportation, or caregiver support available in your county.

Rural seniors and families

• Transportation and broadband are common barriers. Check INDOT Public Transit for county systems and ask your AAA about volunteer drivers.
• Telehealth: Ask your clinic if phone-only visits are allowed. If internet is limited, many providers can do care management and routine follow-ups by phone.
• Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) note: Federal funding for ACP wound down in 2024. For updates, see the FCC’s ACP page: FCC – ACP Wind-Down.

11) Resources by region (Area Agencies on Aging and key partners)

Indiana has 16 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). Use the state directory to find yours by county: Find your AAA – FSSA.

Below are several major AAAs and partners many seniors use. Call yours first for care coordination, meals, in-home services, and caregiver help.

Tip: If you don’t see your county, use the FSSA AAA directory link above and select your county to get the correct office.

12) How to apply: step-by-step for common benefits

FSSA Benefits (Medicaid, SNAP)

1. Gather ID, Social Security numbers, bank statements, proof of income, rent/utility bills, and medical bills.
2. Apply online at FSSA Benefits, by phone at 800-403-0864, or in person at your local DFR office.
3. If you get a letter asking for more documents, respond by the deadline. If you miss it, call and ask to resubmit.

Energy Assistance (EAP/LIHEAP)

1. Start at IHCDA EAP and click Apply or go to eap.ihcda.in.gov.
2. Have recent utility bills and income documents ready.
3. Ask your local agency about crisis appointments if you have a shutoff notice.

HoosierRx (Part D help)

1. Review eligibility at HoosierRx.
2. If you’re unsure, call SHIP at 800-452-4800 to see whether HoosierRx or Extra Help is better for you.
3. Apply and keep a copy of your application and any letters you receive.

13) Realities, tips, and common roadblocks

• Delays happen. Keep a simple “benefits folder” with copies of applications, case numbers, and who you spoke with (name, date, what they said).
• If you’re denied, read the notice carefully. Most programs have an appeal process with a deadline (often 10–30 days). File the appeal on time, even if you’re still gathering documents.
• If technology is hard, ask your AAA for help with online forms or use a library computer. Many AAAs have benefits counselors who will sit with you.

14) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. I got a utility shutoff notice. Can the utility still disconnect me in the winter?

• If you’re enrolled in Indiana’s Energy Assistance Program (EAP), regulated utilities must follow the state’s winter moratorium rules (generally Dec. 1–Mar. 15). Some utilities are not regulated by the IURC (like certain municipals and co-ops) and may have different policies. Confirm current rules here: OUCC – Disconnections. Apply for EAP at IHCDA EAP.

Q2. My landlord is evicting me. Where can I get help fast?

• Call 211, contact your Township Trustee for emergency aid, and seek legal help through Indiana Legal Help or Indiana Legal Services. Do not skip your court date. Bring your lease, notices, receipts, and any inspection reports.

Q3. Is there emergency cash help for seniors in Indiana?

• Indiana does not have a general statewide emergency cash program, but Township Trustees can sometimes help with immediate needs under Indiana Code 12-20: Indiana Code – Assistance to the Poor. Also check 211 for local emergency funds that come and go.

Q4. How do I get in-home help so I can stay in my house?

• Call your Area Agency on Aging for care coordination and options counseling: Find your AAA. Many services are coordinated through Indiana Medicaid’s long-term services (PathWays for Aging) if you qualify: FSSA – LTSS.

Q5. Where can I get free help choosing a Medicare plan?

• Indiana SHIP: 800-452-4800 or SHIP – IDOI. Bring your Medicare card, list of medicines, and doctors.

Q6. I can’t afford my prescriptions. What can I do?

• Check HoosierRx: FSSA HoosierRx. Also apply for Medicare Extra Help: SSA – Extra Help. Ask SHIP to compare your options.

Q7. I think my mom is being financially exploited by a family member. Who do I call?

• Adult Protective Services at 800-992-6978 or via APS – FSSA. Also alert her bank and consider speaking with Indiana Legal Services about protective actions.

Q8. Are there resources for rural seniors with no transportation?

• Check county transit via INDOT Public Transit and ask your AAA about volunteer driver programs. If you have Medicaid, call your plan about non-emergency medical transportation.

Q9. Who do I call about a problem in a nursing home?

• The Long-Term Care Ombudsman: FSSA Ombudsman Program. Keep a log of issues and bring it to your call.

Q10. Do food banks serve seniors specifically?

• Many partner with the “Senior Box” (CSFP) program. Ask 211 for a pantry that participates in CSFP, and check USDA’s list: USDA CSFP Contacts.

15) Common documents you’ll need

Tip: Keep a small folder with copies. If you mail documents, use certified mail or take a photo/scan of what you send.

16) Verified official sources (quick links)

• Indiana Family & Social Services Administration (FSSA): https://www.in.gov/fssa/
• FSSA Division of Aging: https://www.in.gov/fssa/da/
• FSSA Benefits (DFR portal): https://fssabenefits.in.gov/
• Indiana 211: https://www.in211.org/
• Indiana Department of Insurance – SHIP: https://www.in.gov/idoi/consumer-services/state-health-insurance-assistance-program-ship/
• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA): https://www.in.gov/ihcda/
• Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) Indiana: https://www.in.gov/ihcda/homeowners-and-renters/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap/
• Weatherization Assistance Indiana: https://www.in.gov/ihcda/homeowners-and-renters/weatherization/
• Indiana OUCC (utility consumer help): https://www.in.gov/oucc/
• Adult Protective Services: https://www.in.gov/fssa/da/adult-protective-services/
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman: https://www.in.gov/fssa/da/long-term-care-ombudsman/
• Indiana Department of Local Government Finance (property tax): https://www.in.gov/dlgf/
• Indiana Attorney General – Consumer Protection: https://www.in.gov/attorneygeneral/consumer-protection/
• Indiana Legal Help: https://indianalegalhelp.org/
• Indiana Legal Services: https://www.indianalegalservices.org/
• Indiana Department of Transportation – Transit: https://www.in.gov/indot/
• Be Well Indiana (mental health): https://bewellindiana.com/
• HoosierRx: https://www.in.gov/fssa/hoosierrx/
• Social Security Extra Help: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/
• Medicare basics: https://www.medicare.gov/
• USDA Rural Development Indiana: https://www.rd.usda.gov/in
• USDA CSFP contacts: https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp/state-and-regional-contacts
• Indiana Code 12-20 (Poor Relief): https://iga.in.gov/laws/2024/ic/titles/12#12-20

17) Real examples of how to use this guide

• Utility shutoff next week: Apply for EAP at eap.ihcda.in.gov, call your utility to note the application, and read the OUCC disconnection rules. Ask your doctor about a medical certificate if you use oxygen or other life-sustaining equipment.
• Sudden caregiving need after a fall: Call your AAA for a quick options assessment and ask about home-delivered meals, personal care, and respite. If the need is ongoing and funds are tight, ask about Medicaid long-term services via FSSA Benefits.
• Medication too expensive: Call SHIP to check if HoosierRx or Extra Help applies, and ask your pharmacist to look up manufacturer assistance.

18) Short list of “don’t wait” calls to make this week

• Call your AAA: line up a benefits checkup and meal options: Find AAA.
• Call SHIP if you have Medicare questions: 800-452-4800.
• If behind on utilities, start your EAP application: IHCDA EAP.
• Save the APS number in your phone: 800-992-6978.

19) Tables: quick summaries you can print

Indiana emergency contacts and portals

Where to check current eligibility numbers

Disclaimer

We aim to provide accurate, state-specific guidance and link you to official sources. Program details, dates, and eligibility can change at any time. Always confirm with the relevant agency using the official links and phone numbers provided. This guide does not provide legal or financial advice.

About this guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

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

Our Commitment to You:

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

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, 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: We rely on official agency pages and will update as agencies publish changes; please use the links provided to confirm current rules before you apply.
• 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.