Emergency Assistance for Seniors in Minnesota
Emergency Assistance, Resources, and Programs for Seniors in Minnesota (Authority Hub 2025)
Last updated: August 2025
Note: This guide cites official Minnesota and federal sources. Program details can change. Please use the links to confirm current rules and application steps.
Quick Help Box
- Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.
- Housing, food, utility, and mental health referrals: dial 211 or visit the Minnesota directory at 211 (United Way) using the “Get Help” search.
- Emotional crisis or thoughts of self-harm: call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or chat via 988 Lifeline.
- Elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation (24/7): Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center (MAARC): 844-880-1574; see report abuse guidance from Minnesota DHS.
- Medicare, long-term care, and benefits counseling: Senior LinkAge Line: 800-333-2433; see Senior LinkAge Line (Minnesota Board on Aging).
- Veterans in crisis: 988, then press 1; Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) programs; and Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV).
- Energy/heat shutoff help: Minnesota Energy Assistance Program (EAP) – apply and find providers via MN Department of Commerce; learn about the Cold Weather Rule (Minnesota Public Utilities Commission).
- Apply online for county cash/emergency help, SNAP, and more: MNbenefits (official statewide portal).
How to Use This Guide
- Start with the Emergency Section for steps you can take today.
- Use the tables for fast comparisons and “what to do now.”
- Each program has a plain-language summary, who it helps, and where to apply.
- Click descriptive links to go straight to official pages.
Emergency First Steps (Do This Now)
When bills or crises stack up, getting to the right doorway fast matters. Use the table below to match your situation with a clear first action.
Table 1. If This Is Your Situation, Do This Today
| Situation | First step to take today | Why this works |
|---|---|---|
| Eviction threat or late rent | Apply for Emergency Assistance (EA/EGA) via your county at MNbenefits; also call 211 for immediate housing referrals | Counties can pay past-due rent or housing costs in emergencies (coverage varies by county) and 211 connects you to local shelters and prevention resources (DHS Emergency Assistance; 211 Minnesota) |
| Utility disconnection or no heat | Apply for Energy Assistance (EAP) and call your utility to set up a payment plan; learn your rights under the Cold Weather Rule | EAP can pay heat/electric bills and the Cold Weather Rule can prevent shutoff if you arrange a plan (MN Dept. of Commerce EAP; MN PUC) |
| No food or not enough for the week | Apply for SNAP (food assistance) at MNbenefits and ask about Expedited SNAP; find nearby food shelves | Expedited SNAP can arrive in as little as 5 days for those who qualify; food shelves can help immediately (MN DHS SNAP; Hunger Solutions MN Find Help) |
| Mental health crisis, thoughts of self-harm | Call or text 988 or use chat; for county crisis teams, see DHS mobile crisis list | 988 connects you to counselors 24/7; counties can send mobile teams to you (988 Lifeline; DHS Adult mental health crisis response) |
| Abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation | Call MAARC: 844-880-1574 | The statewide hotline takes reports 24/7 and routes them to investigators (DHS MAARC) |
| Medical emergency or urgent symptoms | Call 911 | Fastest way to reach emergency medical care |
| Veterans facing housing or financial crisis | Call your County Veterans Service Officer; contact MDVA State Soldiers Assistance Program; reach MACV | Minnesota has specific veteran emergency programs and housing help (MDVA; MACV) |
Reality check: County emergency funds can run out for the month or have strict rules. Apply early in the month, bring paperwork, and ask about waitlists and other options if funds are exhausted.
What Counts as “Emergency Assistance” in Minnesota?
Emergency assistance is a bundle of programs that can help you avoid eviction, keep the heat and lights on, get food quickly, and manage crises safely. In Minnesota, most emergency help for housing and basic needs runs through your county human services office and statewide programs.
- County Emergency Assistance (EA/EGA): Helps with rent, mortgage, utilities, or moving costs to resolve a short-term crisis. Eligibility and coverage vary by county (Minnesota DHS Emergency Assistance).
- Energy Assistance Program (EAP): Pays part of heating and electricity bills, assists with furnace repair/replacement, and crisis benefits to prevent shutoff (MN Dept. of Commerce EAP).
- SNAP (food assistance): Monthly funds on an EBT card; expedited processing is available for households with very low income or cash-on-hand (MN DHS SNAP; USDA SNAP).
- Adult Protective Services and MAARC: Respond to abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults (DHS MAARC).
- Coordinated Entry for homelessness: A single access point that prioritizes people for shelters and housing programs (211 Minnesota; HUD Coordinated Entry overview).
- Health coverage and cost help: Medical Assistance (Minnesota’s Medicaid), Medicare Savings Programs, and Extra Help for Part D prescriptions (MN DHS MA; SSA Extra Help).
Key Programs at a Glance
Table 2. Minnesota Emergency and Stability Programs You Should Know
| Category | Program | What it does (plain language) | Where to apply/learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing crisis | Emergency Assistance (EA/EGA) | County program that may pay past-due rent, mortgage, utilities, or deposits to stop an emergency | Apply via MNbenefits; learn about EA/EGA at DHS Emergency Assistance |
| Homelessness prevention | Coordinated Entry | One front door for shelter and housing resources in your area | Call 211; see 211 Minnesota housing help |
| Utilities/heat | Energy Assistance Program (EAP) | Helps pay energy bills, fuel delivery, and can help fix/replace unsafe furnaces | Apply and find providers at MN Dept. of Commerce EAP |
| Utility protections | Cold Weather Rule | Limits shutoffs Oct–Apr if you set a payment plan with your utility | Learn your rights at MN PUC Cold Weather Rule |
| Food | SNAP (and Expedited SNAP) | Monthly food benefit; expedited processing if very low income | Apply at MNbenefits; program info at MN DHS SNAP |
| Noncitizen food aid | Minnesota Food Assistance Program (MFAP) | Food help for people not eligible for federal SNAP due to immigration status | See MN DHS MFAP |
| Health coverage | Medical Assistance (MA) for seniors | Medicaid coverage for doctor visits, hospital, LTSS; includes Elderly Waiver and Alternative Care | Start at MN DHS Medical Assistance for older adults |
| Medicare help | Senior LinkAge Line (SHIP) | Unbiased help with Medicare plans, Part D, savings programs | Call 800-333-2433; see Senior LinkAge Line |
| Legal | LawHelpMN and Senior legal services | Free legal help for housing, benefits, abuse, and more (income-based) | Start at LawHelpMN.org |
| Abuse & scams | MAARC; MN Attorney General | Report adult abuse/exploitation; consumer scams and help with complaints | MAARC (DHS); MN Attorney General Consumer Protection |
| Veterans | MDVA State Soldiers Assistance Program; MACV | Emergency financial aid and housing help for veterans | MDVA SSAP; MACV services |
| Care at home | Elderly Waiver (MA) and Alternative Care | In-home supports to avoid nursing home placement | MN DHS Elderly Waiver; Alternative Care program |
| Housing support | Housing Support (formerly GRH) | Helps pay rent/board in certain settings for low-income adults | MN DHS Housing Support |
Tip: Many programs start with one call—to your county human services office or the Senior LinkAge Line. If you’re overwhelmed, call Senior LinkAge Line at 800-333-2433 and ask for a benefits check-up and referrals.
Housing Emergencies and Homelessness Prevention
- County Emergency Assistance (EA/EGA)
- What it is: County-run help to stop an immediate crisis such as eviction, foreclosure, utility shutoff, or homelessness. Assistance can include past-due rent, mortgage payments, security deposits, or utilities. Coverage and limits vary by county and your situation.
- Who it helps: Households with a verifiable emergency and a plan to remain stable after assistance. Seniors can apply; families typically seek EA and single adults EGA.
- How to apply: Online via MNbenefits or through your county/tribal human services office. Start with the DHS Emergency Assistance page for program details and county contacts.
Reality check: Funds can run out, especially late in the month. If denied, ask for the decision in writing and consider an appeal. Also ask the worker to screen you for other programs.
- Coordinated Entry (Shelter and Rapid Rehousing)
- What it is: A single access point for people at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness. The process assesses your situation and connects you to the most appropriate local resource.
- How to start: Call 211 and say “Coordinated Entry” or use the 211 housing resources page. If you’re a veteran, ask to be connected to MACV or VA homeless programs.
- Housing Support (formerly Group Residential Housing)
- What it is: A state program offering monthly payments to help cover housing and some services in eligible settings (like board-and-lodge, assisted living, or other licensed sites) for low-income adults.
- Who it helps: Adults (including seniors) with low income who live in approved settings and meet program criteria.
- Learn more: See Minnesota DHS Housing Support program page.
- Long-Term Care Choices and Keeping Your Home
- Elderly Waiver and Alternative Care programs can help pay for in-home services (homemaker, personal care, home modifications) so you can stay at home safely and avoid nursing home placement if clinically eligible (MN DHS Elderly Waiver; Alternative Care).
- Get unbiased help deciding: Senior LinkAge Line (800-333-2433).
Eviction court help: If you receive a summons, do not skip court. Free legal help may be available through LawHelpMN, which has housing self-help content and legal aid referrals.
Utilities: Heat, Lights, and Safety
- Energy Assistance Program (EAP)
- What it is: Statewide help with energy bills (heating and electricity), fuel delivery in winter, and crisis benefits to prevent shutoffs. It can also fund furnace repair or replacement if your system fails.
- How to apply: Use the Minnesota Department of Commerce EAP page to find your local service provider or apply online.
- Timing: Apply as soon as you get a disconnect notice or if you’re behind. EAP does not pay all your bill, but it can close the gap and stop a crisis.
- Cold Weather Rule (Minnesota Public Utilities Commission)
- What it is: A consumer protection that limits utility shutoffs for residential customers from roughly October 1 through April 30 if you contact your utility and set up a payment plan you can meet.
- What you must do: Call your utility, share your income information, and agree to a reasonable plan. Keep payments current to stay protected.
- Learn more: See the Minnesota PUC Cold Weather Rule page and consumer rights explanation.
- Weatherization Assistance
- What it is: Energy-saving home improvements (insulation, air sealing, safety checks) at no cost to eligible households. This lowers bills long-term.
- Where to start: See Minnesota Department of Commerce Weatherization Assistance and contact your local service provider (often your Community Action Agency).
Tip: Ask your EAP provider to coordinate with Weatherization so you fix the cause of high bills, not just the symptoms.
Food: Fast Help and Monthly Support
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
- What it is: Monthly funds on an EBT card for groceries. Stores and many farmers markets accept EBT.
- Expedited SNAP: If your monthly income or cash is very low, you may qualify for benefits within 5 days (MN DHS SNAP, “Expedited” process).
- Apply: MNbenefits is the official online portal. You can also apply by phone or in person with your county/tribal office (see DHS SNAP program page for details).
- Minnesota Food Assistance Program (MFAP)
- What it is: State-funded food assistance for certain noncitizens who are not eligible for federal SNAP due to immigration status.
- Learn more and apply: See MN DHS MFAP.
- Senior Nutrition: Meals and Groceries
- Congregate and home-delivered meals: Supported by the Minnesota Board on Aging and Area Agencies on Aging. Call the Senior LinkAge Line or search at MinnesotaHelp to find “Meals on Wheels” and senior dining sites near you.
- Food shelves and mobile pantries: Use the statewide finder at Hunger Solutions Minnesota to locate food shelves by ZIP and hours.
Reality check: SNAP is not a full grocery budget, and food shelves may have limited hours or supply. Combine programs: SNAP + senior dining + food shelves.
Health Coverage, Medicines, and Care at Home
- Medical Assistance (MA) for Seniors
- What it is: Minnesota’s Medicaid for people with low income; covers doctor visits, hospital, many prescriptions, and long-term services and supports (LTSS). There are specialty programs like Elderly Waiver (in-home or community supports) and MA for Long-Term Care.
- How to apply: Start at MN DHS Medical Assistance for older adults. You can apply online via MNbenefits or through your county/tribal human services office.
- Medicare Help and Cost Savings
- Senior LinkAge Line (Minnesota’s SHIP): Get unbiased help comparing Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D plans, checking Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) for prescriptions, and applying for Medicare Savings Programs that can pay Part B premiums. Call 800-333-2433 or visit Senior LinkAge Line.
- Extra Help (Part D): Apply through Social Security (SSA Extra Help) if income and resources are limited.
- Care at Home and Caregiver Support
- Elderly Waiver (E-Waiver): For MA-eligible people who need nursing-home level of care but want to receive services at home or in the community (MN DHS Elderly Waiver).
- Alternative Care (AC): For people age 65+ who are not on MA, have limited income/resources, and need help to avoid nursing home placement (MN DHS Alternative Care).
- Caregiver supports and respite: Call Senior LinkAge Line or search MinnesotaHelp for caregiver coaching, respite, and training programs (Minnesota Board on Aging resources).
- Medical Transportation
- If you are on Medical Assistance, you may qualify for Nonemergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for rides to covered appointments; see MN DHS NEMT.
- Twin Cities residents with certified disabilities may qualify for Metro Mobility; see Metro Mobility (Met Council).
- In areas without regular bus service, Transit Link (dial-a-ride) may be available; see Transit Link.
Tip: Schedule rides early, ask about mileage reimbursement for volunteer drivers, and confirm pickup times the day before.
Staying Safe: Abuse, Scams, and Emergencies
- Abuse, neglect, exploitation: Call the Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center (MAARC) at 844-880-1574 (DHS MAARC).
- Consumer scams, fraud, and complaints: See Minnesota Attorney General Consumer Protection for elder-focused scam alerts and how to file a complaint.
- Heat and extreme weather: Safety tips and cooling/warming options are at the Minnesota Department of Health Extreme Heat and Extreme Cold pages.
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Residents of nursing homes or assisted living—and their families—can get free help to resolve care problems; see Office of Ombudsman for Long-Term Care (Minnesota Board on Aging).
Table 3. Who to Call About Safety Concerns
| Concern | Who to contact | Official resource |
|---|---|---|
| Abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation | MAARC (24/7): 844-880-1574 | DHS Adult Abuse Reporting Center |
| Nursing home or assisted living issues | Long-Term Care Ombudsman | MN Ombudsman for Long-Term Care |
| Consumer scams and unfair business practices | Minnesota Attorney General | AG Consumer Protection |
| Crisis mental health | 988 (call/text/chat) | 988 Lifeline |
| Utility shutoffs and rights | Your utility, then MN PUC | MN PUC Consumer Rights and Cold Weather Rule |
Money Help: Taxes, Phones, and Internet
- Property Tax Refunds and Deferral
- Property Tax Refund (for homeowners) and Renter’s Property Tax Refund can reduce costs based on income and property tax paid. This is claimed on Minnesota Form M1PR (MN Department of Revenue Property Tax Refund).
- Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral: If you’re 65+ with income under a set limit, you may defer a portion of your property tax and pay it later, with interest (MN Department of Revenue Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral Program).
- Phones and Connectivity
- Lifeline (FCC): Monthly discount on phone or broadband for eligible low-income households. Apply via the National Verifier; see Lifeline Support (FCC/USAC).
- Minnesota Telephone Equipment Distribution (TED) Program: Provides telephone equipment at no cost to Minnesotans who have hearing, speech, or physical disabilities that make it hard to use a phone; see DHS Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (TED Program).
Note: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped accepting new enrollments in 2024 due to funding lapsing. Check your provider and the FCC ACP page for any updates or successor programs.
How to Apply (Without the Runaround)
- Use MNbenefits for county-run help
- Apply for SNAP, cash aid, Emergency Assistance, and more at MNbenefits. You can upload documents and check status online.
- Call Senior LinkAge Line for a benefits check-up
- One call can screen you for Medicare Savings Programs, Extra Help, caregiver resources, and local senior services (800-333-2433; Senior LinkAge Line).
- Keep your paperwork handy
- Photo ID, Social Security number (or document number), proof of address, rent/lease, utility bills, income proof (pay stubs, benefits letters), bank statement (to show low funds if seeking expedited help), medical bills, and eviction/shutoff notices.
Table 4. Where to Apply Online (Official Portals)
| Need | Best first stop | Why this link |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP, cash, Emergency Assistance (EA/EGA) | MNbenefits (State of Minnesota) | Single, official online application for county programs |
| Energy Assistance (heat, lights) | MN Dept. of Commerce EAP | State portal to apply/find your local EAP provider |
| Medicare counseling and long-term care decisions | Senior LinkAge Line | Minnesota’s official help line for Medicare and aging services |
| Legal self-help and referrals | LawHelpMN.org | Minnesota’s statewide legal help hub |
| Find local services of all kinds | MinnesotaHelp.info | Official Minnesota Board on Aging directory |
Know Your Rights: Utility Protections and Fast Food Aid
Table 5. Time-Sensitive Protections and Standards
| Topic | What Minnesota provides | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Cold Weather Rule | Shutoffs limited Oct–Apr if you call your utility and set up a payment plan you can meet | MN PUC Cold Weather Rule |
| SNAP expedited timeline | Households with very low income or cash may receive benefits within 5 days after application | MN DHS SNAP (Expedited SNAP) |
| Tenant rights | Minnesota’s Landlord-Tenant laws cover notices, repairs, and eviction process; read before court | Minnesota Attorney General Landlord and Tenant Guide |
| Nursing home resident rights | Residents have rights to quality care, visitation, and grievance processes | MN Ombudsman for Long-Term Care |
Reality check: “Protections” are not automatic—you must make the call (to your utility, for example) and follow through on the payment plan.
Inclusive Resources
LGBTQ+ Seniors
- Rainbow Health (Aging Initiative): Health navigation, support groups, and LGBTQ-competent provider referrals in Minnesota. See Rainbow Health Minnesota.
- SAGE National Resources: National supports for LGBTQ+ older adults; see SAGE National Resource Center on LGBT Aging.
Tip: When seeking care, ask if the clinic or senior community has SAGECare training or inclusive policies.
Veteran Seniors
- Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs – State Soldiers Assistance Program: Emergency financial aid, housing stabilization, and more for eligible Minnesota veterans (MDVA SSAP).
- County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs): Your local first stop for benefits and claims assistance; find your CVSO via MDVA county directory.
- Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV): Housing, legal, and employment help; see MACV services.
- VA Health and Benefits: Federal VA health enrollment and benefits; see VA.gov.
Reality check: Bring your DD-214 and income documents to speed up help. Ask about VA Aid & Attendance if you need help at home.
Tribal-Specific Resources
Minnesota is home to 11 Tribal Nations. Elders can access services both through county programs and their Tribe’s elder services.
- Minnesota Indian Affairs Council: Links to Tribal Nations and programs; see MN Indian Affairs Council.
- Title VI (Older Americans Act) Elder Programs: Many Tribes provide congregate meals, home-delivered meals, transportation, and caregiver support; search the ACL Title VI Program directory.
- Indian Health Service (Bemidji Area): Health services and clinic locations; see IHS Bemidji Area.
- County/Tribal Human Services: Use the DHS directory to connect with your Tribal human services office.
Tip: Ask your Tribal elder program about meals, transportation, and winter heat assistance coordination with EAP.
Rural Seniors and Families (Limited Access)
- Community Action Agencies (CAAs): Deliver Energy Assistance, Weatherization, and other supports in Greater Minnesota. Find your local CAA via Minnesota Community Action Partnership.
- Greater Minnesota Transit: Find county and regional transit providers through MnDOT Transit.
- Telehealth and mail-order meds: Ask your clinic and Medicare plan about telehealth and mail delivery to reduce travel.
- Grocery and pharmacy delivery: Many towns have volunteer driver programs via senior centers or faith groups—ask Senior LinkAge Line to check your ZIP.
Regional and Local Navigation
- Find your county or tribal human services office: Minnesota DHS County and Tribal Directory (official contact links for every county and Tribal Nation).
- Find shelters and housing access points (Coordinated Entry): Call 211 and ask for your local Coordinated Entry number; see 211 Minnesota housing help.
- Find senior meals, transportation, home help, and more: MinnesotaHelp.info (official directory by Minnesota Board on Aging).
If you live in the Twin Cities metro, ask Senior LinkAge Line to connect you with Trellis (the metro Area Agency on Aging). In Northeast, Arrowhead Area Agency on Aging serves the region. In Central and Southern Minnesota, you’ll be connected to the appropriate Area Agency on Aging via Senior LinkAge Line.
Real-World Examples
- Eviction notice with Social Security income: A 72-year-old in St. Cloud applies for EA via MNbenefits and gets help with a month of back rent plus a payment plan with the landlord. They also enroll in SNAP and EAP to reduce ongoing costs. Sources: DHS Emergency Assistance; MNbenefits; DHS SNAP; MN EAP.
- Winter heat crisis: A homeowner in Moorhead with a failed furnace gets EAP crisis funds and a furnace repair. They also apply for Weatherization to lower bills next winter. Sources: MN EAP; Weatherization Assistance.
- Medicare savings: A Duluth couple on Medicare calls Senior LinkAge Line, qualifies for a Medicare Savings Program that pays their Part B premiums, and enrolls in Extra Help to reduce drug copays. Sources: Senior LinkAge Line; SSA Extra Help.
Application Tips, Denials, and Appeals
- Be thorough but fast: Submit the application even if you’re missing one document; ask your worker for time to supply the rest.
- Ask about expedited processing: For SNAP and energy crises, ask if you meet expedited or crisis criteria.
- If denied: You have the right to a written notice that explains why. You may appeal county decisions. See Minnesota DHS Appeals and Hearings for how to file and deadlines.
- Keep notes: Write down dates, names, and what you were told. This helps if you need to appeal or call back.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How quickly can I get help with rent to stop an eviction?
- County Emergency Assistance decisions vary, but emergencies are handled as quickly as possible. Apply at MNbenefits and call your county worker after submitting. Also call 211 to connect with Coordinated Entry and local prevention funds. Source: Minnesota DHS Emergency Assistance; 211 Minnesota.
Q: What’s the difference between EA and EGA?
- In Minnesota, Emergency Assistance (EA) is typically for families with minor children and Emergency General Assistance (EGA) is for adults without minor children. Both are county-run and can help with housing or utilities if you meet eligibility and crisis rules. Source: Minnesota DHS Emergency Assistance.
Q: I got a disconnection notice. What should I do first?
- Apply for EAP right away and call your utility to set up a payment plan. Ask about protection under the Cold Weather Rule (October–April). Source: Minnesota Department of Commerce EAP; Minnesota PUC Cold Weather Rule.
Q: What is Expedited SNAP and how fast is it?
- If your household has very little income or cash on hand, you may qualify for SNAP benefits within 5 days of your application. Ask your county about expedited processing. Source: Minnesota DHS SNAP (Expedited SNAP).
Q: I’m a veteran. Is there state help beyond the VA?
- Yes. Minnesota’s State Soldiers Assistance Program offers emergency financial help, and MACV helps with housing and legal issues. Contact your County Veterans Service Officer for fast local help. Sources: MDVA SSAP; MACV; MDVA CVSOs.
Q: Can I get help to stay in my home instead of moving to a nursing home?
- Yes. Elderly Waiver (for people on Medical Assistance) and Alternative Care (for people 65+ not on MA) pay for in-home services and supports if you qualify. Call the Senior LinkAge Line for a long-term care consultation. Sources: MN DHS Elderly Waiver; Alternative Care; Senior LinkAge Line.
Q: I don’t have a computer. How do I apply?
- You can apply by phone or in person through your county/tribal office. Call Senior LinkAge Line at 800-333-2433 to get the correct phone number and address, or use the DHS County and Tribal Directory. Sources: Senior LinkAge Line; DHS County/Tribal Directory.
Q: Is there help for hearing-friendly phone equipment?
- Yes. Minnesota’s Telephone Equipment Distribution (TED) Program provides phones and accessories for people with hearing, speech, or physical disabilities. Source: DHS Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (TED Program).
Q: Are there programs for noncitizens who can’t get SNAP?
- Minnesota’s MFAP can help certain noncitizens who are not eligible for federal SNAP due to immigration status. Source: MN DHS MFAP.
Q: How do I report elder abuse or a scam?
- For abuse, neglect, or exploitation, call MAARC at 844-880-1574. For scams or consumer issues, contact the Minnesota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection office. Sources: DHS MAARC; MN Attorney General Consumer Protection.
Q: What if I can’t pay my property taxes this year?
- Check eligibility for the Property Tax Refund programs and, if you’re 65+, the Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral. Source: Minnesota Department of Revenue Property Tax Refund; Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral.
Q: How do I get help choosing a Medicare plan?
- Call the Senior LinkAge Line for unbiased, no-cost counseling and plan comparisons. Source: Senior LinkAge Line.
Q: I live far from a city. Is there transportation help?
- Check your county’s transit provider via MnDOT’s Transit resources, ask about volunteer driver programs, and if you have MA, ask about NEMT. Sources: MnDOT Transit; MN DHS NEMT.
Documents Checklist (Bring These When You Can)
- Photo ID and Social Security number (or document number)
- Proof of address (lease, mail)
- Eviction or utility shutoff notice (if applicable)
- Income proof (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs)
- Bank statement (to show low funds for expedited help)
- Medical bills or prescriptions (if seeking medical cost help)
- Veteran documents (DD-214), if applicable
Keep scanned photos on your phone if possible; MNbenefits lets you upload.
Reality Checks and Warnings
- Don’t rely on one program. Most seniors use a combination (SNAP + EAP + Medicare savings).
- County emergency funds can run out each month. Apply early and ask about other options if funds are exhausted.
- Utility protections like the Cold Weather Rule require you to call the utility and stick to a payment plan.
- Beware of fees. Official benefits are free to apply. Avoid sites that ask you to pay to apply.
- Program details change. Always click through to the official page and confirm.
Sources (Official and Well-Established)
- Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) – Emergency Assistance (EA/EGA): https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/children-and-families/economic-assistance/housing/programs-and-services/emergency-assistance.jsp
- MNbenefits (official application portal): https://mnbenefits.mn.gov
- DHS SNAP (including expedited SNAP): https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/adults/economic-assistance/food-nutrition/programs-and-services/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program.jsp
- Minnesota Food Assistance Program (MFAP): https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/adults/economic-assistance/food-nutrition/programs-and-services/mfap.jsp
- Minnesota Department of Commerce – Energy Assistance Program (EAP): https://mn.gov/commerce/consumers/consumer-assistance/energy-assistance/
- Minnesota Public Utilities Commission – Cold Weather Rule: https://mn.gov/puc/consumers/help/shut-off-protections/
- Weatherization Assistance (MN Dept. of Commerce): https://mn.gov/commerce/consumers/consumer-assistance/weatherization/
- Senior LinkAge Line (Minnesota Board on Aging): https://www.mn.gov/senior-linkage-line
- MinnesotaHelp.info (service directory): https://www.minnesotahelp.info
- DHS Medical Assistance for seniors: https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/seniors/health-care/health-care-programs/programs-and-services/medical-assistance.jsp
- DHS Elderly Waiver: https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/seniors/services/home-community/programs-and-services/elderly-waiver.jsp
- DHS Alternative Care: https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/seniors/services/home-community/programs-and-services/alternative-care.jsp
- DHS Housing Support: https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/adults/services/housing-stabilization/programs-and-services/housing-support.jsp
- DHS Adult Abuse Reporting (MAARC): https://mn.gov/dhs/partners-and-providers/licensing/adult-protection/
- Office of Ombudsman for Long-Term Care: https://mn.gov/ooltc/
- Minnesota Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant and Consumer Protection: https://www.ag.state.mn.us/Office/ConsumerAssistance.asp
- LawHelpMN: https://www.lawhelpmn.org
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org
- MDVA State Soldiers Assistance Program: https://mn.gov/mdva/resources/ssap/
- MDVA County Veterans Service Officers directory: https://mn.gov/mdva/resources/cvso/
- MACV (Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans): https://www.mac-v.org
- DHS Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services – TED Program: https://mn.gov/deaf-hard-of-hearing/communication-access/ted/
- Minnesota Department of Revenue – Property Tax Refund: https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/property-tax-refund
- Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral: https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/senior-citizens-property-tax-deferral
- MnDOT Transit (find providers): https://www.dot.state.mn.us/transit/
- Metro Mobility (Twin Cities): https://metrocouncil.org/Transportation/Services/Metro-Mobility-Home.aspx
- Transit Link (Twin Cities dial-a-ride): https://www.transitlinktc.org
- DHS Nonemergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): https://mn.gov/dhs/partners-and-providers/policies-procedures/childrens-and-adult-mental-health/nonemergency-medical-transportation.jsp
- Minnesota Indian Affairs Council: https://mn.gov/indianaffairs/
- ACL Title VI (Tribal Elder) Program Directory: https://olderindians.acl.gov/programs/title-vi
- Indian Health Service – Bemidji Area: https://www.ihs.gov/bemidji/
- Hunger Solutions Minnesota – Find Help: https://www.hungersolutions.org/find-help/
Note: Some agencies periodically update URLs. If a link does not open, search the agency’s homepage for the program name.
Disclaimer
This guide is for general information only. Program rules, amounts, eligibility, and application methods can change. Always verify details with the agency or program using the official links provided. This guide does not provide legal 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: 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.
