Emergency Assistance for Seniors in Washington
Written & Reviewed by
Last updated: August 2025
Note: Links in this guide go directly to official state agencies, federal programs, or well‑established non‑profits. Program rules change. Always confirm details with the agency.
Quick Help Box (keep this handy)
If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
- Get help finding anything now: Call 211 or visit the Washington 211 website: https://wa211.org
- Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult: Call 1-866-END-HARM (1-866-363-4276) or see Adult Protective Services: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/report-adult-abuse-neglect-or-exploitation
- Mental health or suicide crisis: Call or text 988 (24/7), or visit the 988 Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org
- Apply for food, cash, and many state benefits: Use Washington Connection: https://www.washingtonconnection.org
- Apple Health (Medicaid) information and enrollment: Washington Health Care Authority (HCA): https://www.hca.wa.gov/free-or-low-cost-health-care
- Medicare free counseling in Washington (SHIBA): 1-800-562-6900 or visit the SHIBA program: https://www.insurance.wa.gov/statewide-health-insurance-benefits-advisors-shiba
- Legal help for people 60+: CLEAR Senior line (Northwest Justice Project): https://nwjustice.org/get-legal-help
- Eviction defense (Right-to-Counsel): Office of Civil Legal Aid information: https://ocla.wa.gov/programs-services/eviction-right-to-counsel
- Find your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA): DSHS AAA directory: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/area-agencies-aging
Tip: If hearing- or speech-impaired, dial 711 to use Washington Relay.
What to do first in an emergency (simple steps)
- Safety first
• For life-threatening situations: call 911.
• For mental health or substance crisis: call or text 988. - Get a navigator
• Call 211 to find emergency shelter, food, transportation, cooling centers, and local aid. 211 can transfer you to county services. See https://wa211.org - Apply for benefits
• Use Washington Connection to apply for Basic Food (SNAP), cash programs, and more: https://www.washingtonconnection.org
• Need help to apply? Your local AAA can help: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/area-agencies-aging - Keep documents ready
• Photo ID, Social Security number, proof of Washington address, income, assets, and medical bills.
• If you don’t have a document, apply anyway and explain. Agencies can help you gather what’s missing. - Watch out for scams
• No one from a government program will ask for your bank password or charge fees to “speed up” benefits. Report scams to the WA Attorney General: https://www.atg.wa.gov/file-complaint
Reality check: Some programs have waitlists (housing vouchers), limited funds (utility grants), and county-specific rules. If one door is closed, ask 211 or your AAA for alternatives.
Emergency Cash, Food, and Daily Needs
Basic Food (SNAP) – “Basic Food” in Washington
- What it is: Monthly food benefits on an EBT card that works like a debit card at grocery stores and many farmers markets.
- Who it serves: Low-income households, including adults 60+.
- How to apply: Online at Washington Connection or by contacting DSHS Community Services: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/community-services-offices/basic-food
- Notes: Expedited (fast) service may be available for very low incomes.
- Source: Washington DSHS Basic Food: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/community-services-offices/basic-food
EBT security tip: If your food benefits were stolen, report it right away. See DSHS EBT information: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/community-services-offices/ebt
Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) Cash Assistance
- What it is: A small monthly cash benefit and help to apply for SSI/SSDI.
- Who it serves: Adults with very low income who are age 65+ or have a qualifying disability.
- How to apply: Through Washington Connection or DSHS Community Services Offices.
- Source: DSHS ABD Cash Program: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/community-services-offices/aged-blind-or-disabled-abd-cash
Housing and Essential Needs (HEN) – for very low-income adults with certain disabilities
- What it is: Non-cash help such as rent or utility assistance, and essentials. Administered locally.
- Who it serves: Adults unable to work who meet DSHS “HEN referral” criteria. Not everyone 65+ will qualify.
- How to connect: DSHS determines eligibility, then refers to local HEN providers.
- Source: DSHS HEN Program: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/housing-essentials-needs
Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)
- What it is: Coupons to buy fresh fruits and vegetables from approved farmers markets and farm stands.
- Who it serves: Older adults with limited income. Distributed by local Area Agencies on Aging.
- Source: DSHS ALTSA SFMNP: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program
Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) – “Senior Food Box”
- What it is: Monthly package of nutritious foods (like canned fruits/vegetables, grains, dairy).
- Who it serves: Seniors 60+ meeting income guidelines.
- How to connect: Through local food banks and distribution sites.
- Source: Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) CSFP: https://agr.wa.gov/departments/human-health-and-safety/food-assistance
Meals at home and community meals
- What it is: Home-delivered meals (Meals on Wheels) and community dining sites.
- Who it serves: Older adults; costs vary by program; donations often accepted.
- How to connect: Contact your AAA: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/area-agencies-aging
- Example: King County Meals on Wheels (Sound Generations): https://www.soundgenerations.org/what-we-do/food-security/meals-on-wheels/
Food banks and pantries
- Start with 211’s food search: https://wa211.org
- Also see Food Lifeline’s finder (non-profit): https://foodlifeline.org/need-food/
Table 1. Emergency contacts and applications at a glance
| Need | Who to contact | How to reach |
|---|---|---|
| Any local help now | Washington 211 | Call 211 or visit https://wa211.org |
| Apply for food/cash | Washington Connection (DSHS) | https://www.washingtonconnection.org |
| Report adult abuse | DSHS Adult Protective Services | 1-866-363-4276 or https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/report-adult-abuse-neglect-or-exploitation |
| Mental health crisis | 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | Call or text 988 or visit https://988lifeline.org |
| Medicare help | SHIBA (WA OIC) | 1-800-562-6900 or https://www.insurance.wa.gov/statewide-health-insurance-benefits-advisors-shiba |
| Apple Health (Medicaid) | HCA | https://www.hca.wa.gov/free-or-low-cost-health-care |
| Legal help for seniors | CLEAR Senior (NJP) | https://nwjustice.org/get-legal-help |
| Eviction defense info | Office of Civil Legal Aid | https://ocla.wa.gov/programs-services/eviction-right-to-counsel |
Sources: linked agency pages above.
Housing, Shelter, and Homelessness Prevention
Coordinated Entry (shelter and housing navigation)
- What it is: The standard way to access emergency shelter and many housing programs.
- How to start: Call 211. In King County, see the Regional Access Points listed by the King County Regional Homelessness Authority: https://kcrha.org/get-help/
- Reality check: Waitlists are common. Keep calling and ask about senior‑specific beds and day centers.
Emergency rent help
- Funding changes often. 211 keeps the most current list of county programs: https://wa211.org
- If you get an eviction notice, ask about Washington’s Right-to-Counsel for eligible tenants: https://ocla.wa.gov/programs-services/eviction-right-to-counsel
Homeowner assistance and foreclosure prevention
- Washington Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) has had changing availability; check current status with the Washington State Housing Finance Commission: https://www.wshfc.org/hal/homeowner-assistance-fund.htm
- If you’re behind on your mortgage, call your servicer and a HUD-approved housing counselor. HUD counseling locator: https://hud.gov/findacounselor
Property tax relief for seniors and disabled persons
- Property Tax Exemption: If you meet age/disability and income limits, you can get a reduction in property taxes. Income limits vary by county. Start with the Department of Revenue’s page and then contact your county assessor: https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/property-tax/senior-citizens-and-people-disabilities-exemptions
- Property Tax Deferral: If eligible, the state can pay your taxes now and collect later, with interest: https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/property-tax/property-tax-deferral-senior-citizens-and-people-disabilities
HEN (Housing and Essential Needs)
- For adults referred by DSHS, HEN can help pay rent and utilities through local providers. Not everyone is eligible, and funding is limited. Details: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/housing-essentials-needs
Veterans housing help
- WDVA can connect you to county veterans programs that may provide emergency rent, utilities, or deposit help. See WDVA county programs: https://www.dva.wa.gov/county-services/county-veterans-programs
- VA homeless programs: Ask about HUD‑VASH (housing vouchers with VA case management) via your local VA Medical Center. Start here: https://www.va.gov/homeless/
Reality check: Subsidized apartments and Housing Choice Vouchers often have long waitlists. Ask about senior housing buildings and project‑based vouchers. Keep a folder of application receipts and follow-up dates.
Utilities, Energy, Water, and Internet/Phone
LIHEAP (energy bill help)
- What it is: Federal energy assistance for heating or electric bills.
- How to apply in WA: Contact your local LIHEAP provider via the Department of Commerce page: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/programs/energy/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap/
- Tip: Apply early in the season; funds can run out.
Weatherization Assistance
- What it is: Free energy-saving repairs (like insulation, sealing, ventilation) for qualifying households.
- How to apply: Through local agencies listed by WA Department of Commerce: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/programs/energy/weatherization/
Water and sewer help
- Note: The federal LIHWAP ended; check for local utility hardship programs. See your city or county utility website and call 211 for current options. Federal program information: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/programs/lihwap
City and utility programs
- Many utilities run discount or emergency programs for low-income seniors. Examples below. Always confirm with your provider or call 211.
Table 2. Utility assistance programs (examples)
| Utility/Area | Program | Where to learn more |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle City Light & Seattle Public Utilities | Utility Discount Program (UDP) for eligible customers (discounts on electric and water/sewer/garbage) | https://www.seattle.gov/humanservices/services-and-programs/utility-assistance/utility-discount-program |
| Tacoma Public Utilities | Bill assistance and discounts | https://www.mytpu.org/community/assistance/ |
| Puget Sound Energy (PSE) | Bill assistance, weatherization, and income-based programs | https://www.pse.com/pages/bill-and-weatherization-assistance |
| Snohomish PUD | Income-qualified discounts and payment help | https://www.snopud.com/billing/assistance/ |
| Avista (Spokane and eastern WA) | Energy assistance and payment arrangements | https://www.myavista.com/account/billing/assistance |
Sources: linked utility program pages.
Lifeline (phone/internet discount)
- What it is: A federal monthly discount on phone or internet service for low-income households.
- Apply: National Verifier (USAC) at https://www.lifelinesupport.org
- Note on ACP: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped accepting new enrollments and ended due to lack of funding in 2024. See the FCC ACP page for status updates: https://www.fcc.gov/acp
Health Care, Medicare, and Mental Health
Apple Health (Medicaid) for older adults
- What it is: Free or low-cost health coverage. For long-term care, Apple Health also offers in‑home and community services.
- How to explore/apply: Washington Health Care Authority (HCA) overview and applications: https://www.hca.wa.gov/free-or-low-cost-health-care
- Long‑term services and supports (LTSS): Learn about in-home care, assisted living, and nursing facility services through ALTSA: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/long-term-care-services
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs)
- What they are: Programs that can pay your Medicare Part B premium and sometimes deductibles and coinsurance if your income is limited.
- Where to learn more and apply: HCA’s MSP page: https://www.hca.wa.gov/free-or-low-cost-health-care/program-administration/medicare-savings-programs
Medicare counseling (free, unbiased)
- SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) can help you compare Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D plans, and screen for savings programs. Call 1-800-562-6900 or visit: https://www.insurance.wa.gov/statewide-health-insurance-benefits-advisors-shiba
Dental coverage
- Apple Health includes adult dental benefits for eligible members. Provider and benefit details: https://www.hca.wa.gov/health-care-services-supports/apple-health-medicaid-coverage/apple-health-dental-coverage
Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
- If you have Apple Health, you may qualify for rides to covered medical appointments through a regional broker. Check your county’s broker and how to schedule: https://www.hca.wa.gov/health-care-services-supports/apple-health-medicaid-coverage/apple-health-non-emergency-medical-transportation-nemt
Behavioral health and substance use
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org
- Washington Recovery Help Line (mental health, substance use, problem gambling): 1-866-789-1511 and https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org
- Local county crisis lines: HCA county crisis contacts: https://www.hca.wa.gov/health-care-services-supports/behavioral-health-recovery/crisis-lines
Reality check: Finding a dentist or mental health provider who takes your plan can take time. Ask SHIBA (for Medicare) or your Apple Health plan for in‑network providers. If you can’t find one, ask for “care coordination” or a case manager.
Safety, Protection, and Disaster Readiness
Adult Protective Services (APS)
- Report abuse, neglect, self-neglect, or financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult.
- Phone: 1-866-END-HARM (1-866-363-4276)
- Online: How to report and what to expect: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/report-adult-abuse-neglect-or-exploitation
Long‑Term Care Ombudsman
- Independent advocates for residents of nursing homes, assisted living, and adult family homes.
- Washington State Long-Term Care Ombudsman: https://www.waombudsman.org
Consumer protection and fraud
- Washington Attorney General Consumer Protection: file a complaint or get help: https://www.atg.wa.gov/file-complaint
- Financial scams: Washington Department of Financial Institutions consumer portal: https://dfi.wa.gov/consumers
Domestic violence and elder abuse resources
- Find local programs (shelter, legal help) through the Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence: https://wscadv.org/get-help-now/
- In danger now? Call 911 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233, https://www.thehotline.org
Disaster and extreme weather
- Washington Emergency Management Division (alerts, preparedness): https://mil.wa.gov/prepare and county alert sign-ups: https://mil.wa.gov/alerts
- Extreme heat: WA Department of Health guidance and resources: https://doh.wa.gov/emergencies/extreme-heat
- Wildfire smoke health tips: WA DOH smoke page: https://doh.wa.gov/air-quality/wildfire-smoke
- Cooling/warming centers: Call 211 to find sites near you.
Transportation and Mobility
Regional Reduced Fare Permit (RRFP) and ORCA
- What it is: Discounted fares on most Puget Sound transit systems for riders 65+.
- How to get it: See ORCA reduced fare programs and RRFP details: https://www.myorca.com/reduced-fare-programs/
Paratransit and Dial‑a‑Ride
- Most transit agencies offer ADA paratransit for riders who cannot use regular buses due to a disability. Apply through your local transit agency.
Medical rides (Apple Health members)
- Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) through regional brokers: https://www.hca.wa.gov/health-care-services-supports/apple-health-medicaid-coverage/apple-health-non-emergency-medical-transportation-nemt
Volunteer driver and local options
- Many AAAs coordinate volunteer drivers to medical appointments and shopping. Contact your AAA: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/area-agencies-aging
Table 3. “Who does what” for health and transportation
| Topic | Program/Agency | What they do | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Health (Medicaid) | HCA | Free/low‑cost health coverage; some LTSS | https://www.hca.wa.gov/free-or-low-cost-health-care |
| Medicare counseling | SHIBA (OIC) | Free, unbiased help picking Medicare coverage | https://www.insurance.wa.gov/statewide-health-insurance-benefits-advisors-shiba |
| Medicaid medical rides | HCA NEMT | Rides to covered medical appointments | https://www.hca.wa.gov/health-care-services-supports/apple-health-medicaid-coverage/apple-health-non-emergency-medical-transportation-nemt |
| Reduced transit fares | ORCA RRFP | Discounted senior fares in Puget Sound | https://www.myorca.com/reduced-fare-programs/ |
| Ferries | Washington State Ferries | Senior reduced fares available | https://wsdot.wa.gov/travel/washington-state-ferries/rider-information/fares |
Sources: linked agency pages.
Money, Taxes, and Household Stability
Property tax relief (exemption and deferral)
- See the Washington Department of Revenue pages to check eligibility, then contact your county assessor:
• Exemptions: https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/property-tax/senior-citizens-and-people-disabilities-exemptions
• Deferrals: https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/property-tax/property-tax-deferral-senior-citizens-and-people-disabilities
Unclaimed property
- The state may be holding unclaimed funds in your name (refunds, old accounts). Search and claim for free: https://ucp.dor.wa.gov
Free tax filing help
- AARP Foundation Tax‑Aide (all ages, with focus on older adults), available in libraries and community centers each tax season: https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/
- IRS VITA/TCE site locator: https://irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep/
Home repairs and safety
- Weatherization (energy-focused repairs): https://www.commerce.wa.gov/programs/energy/weatherization/
- Rural seniors: USDA Section 504 Home Repair (grants/loans for very low‑income homeowners in eligible rural areas): https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
Inclusive, Targeted Resources
LGBTQ+ older adults
- GenPride (Seattle): programs, classes, support, and resource navigation for LGBTQ+ older adults: https://genprideseattle.org
- Statewide Medicare help for LGBTQ+ seniors: SHIBA can provide welcoming, confidential counseling: https://www.insurance.wa.gov/statewide-health-insurance-benefits-advisors-shiba
- Elder abuse or discrimination: Report to APS and consider legal help via Northwest Justice Project: https://nwjustice.org/get-legal-help
Veteran seniors
- Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA): benefits navigation, veterans homes, and county veterans assistance: https://www.dva.wa.gov
- County Veterans Programs (emergency aid varies by county): https://www.dva.wa.gov/county-services/county-veterans-programs
- VA health care and Aid & Attendance pension (helps with care costs if eligible): https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
- VA Puget Sound (major medical center): https://www.va.gov/puget-sound-health-care/
Tribal elders (Native American and Alaska Native)
- Connect with your Tribe’s elders program (Title VI) for meals, transportation, and caregiver support. Find Title VI programs via the Eldercare Locator (ACL): https://eldercare.acl.gov
- IHS Portland Area (serving WA): https://www.ihs.gov/portland/
- Tribal contact directory (Washington Governor’s Office of Indian Affairs): https://goia.wa.gov/tribal-government/tribal-directory
- Many Tribes run their own health, housing, and energy assistance programs—ask your Tribal social services office.
Rural seniors and limited-access communities
- Transportation: Check your AAA for volunteer drivers, and your transit agency for dial‑a‑ride.
- Home repair: USDA Section 504 (rural) grants/loans: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
- Internet: Lifeline discount may lower costs: https://www.lifelinesupport.org
- Telehealth: Apple Health and Medicare cover many telehealth services—ask your plan for options and how to set up video/phone visits.
Resources by Region (Area Agencies on Aging and Key Hubs)
Your AAA is often the best “one call” for local senior resources (food, transportation, caregiver support, case management). Use the DSHS AAA directory for the most current contact details: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/area-agencies-aging
Below are several major regional AAAs and hubs:
- Aging and Disability Services (Seattle/King County): https://www.agingkingcounty.org
- Pierce County Aging & Disability Resources: https://www.piercecountywa.gov/1988/Aging-and-Disability-Resources
- Snohomish County Long Term Care & Aging (AAA): https://www.snohomishcountywa.gov/430/Long-Term-Care-Aging
- Northwest Regional Council (Island, San Juan, Skagit, Whatcom): https://www.nwrcwa.org
- Olympic Area Agency on Aging (Clallam, Jefferson, Grays Harbor, Pacific): https://www.o3a.org
- Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of Southwest WA (Clark, Cowlitz, Klickitat, Skamania, Wahkiakum): https://www.helpingelders.org
- Lewis-Mason-Thurston Area Agency on Aging: https://www.lmtaaa.org
- Aging & Long Term Care of Eastern Washington (Spokane, Ferry, Pend Oreille, Stevens): https://www.altcew.org
- Aging & Long Term Care of Central Washington (Chelan, Douglas, Grant, Kittitas, Okanogan, Yakima): https://www.altcwashington.com
Tip: If your county isn’t listed above, use the DSHS statewide directory to find your AAA.
Table 4. Food, cash, and housing programs (summary)
| Program | What it does | Who it serves | Where to apply/learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Food (SNAP) | Monthly EBT food benefits | Low-income households, including 60+ | https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/community-services-offices/basic-food |
| ABD Cash | Small monthly cash; SSI/SSDI help | Adults 65+ or with disability, very low income | https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/community-services-offices/aged-blind-or-disabled-abd-cash |
| HEN | Rent, utilities, essentials (non-cash) | Adults with DSHS HEN referral | https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/housing-essentials-needs |
| SFMNP | Produce coupons for markets | Older adults with limited income | https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program |
| CSFP | Monthly food box | Seniors 60+ meeting income rules | https://agr.wa.gov/departments/human-health-and-safety/food-assistance |
| Eviction Right-to-Counsel | Lawyer for eligible tenants in eviction | Low-income tenants facing eviction | https://ocla.wa.gov/programs-services/eviction-right-to-counsel |
Sources: linked agency pages.
Table 5. Health care and savings programs (summary)
| Program | What it does | Key notes | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Health (Medicaid) | Free/low-cost health coverage; LTSS options | Apply year-round | https://www.hca.wa.gov/free-or-low-cost-health-care |
| Medicare Savings Programs | May pay Part B premium and more | Income/resource limits apply | https://www.hca.wa.gov/free-or-low-cost-health-care/program-administration/medicare-savings-programs |
| SHIBA counseling | Unbiased Medicare help | Free and confidential | https://www.insurance.wa.gov/statewide-health-insurance-benefits-advisors-shiba |
| NEMT | Rides to covered medical care | For Apple Health members | https://www.hca.wa.gov/health-care-services-supports/apple-health-medicaid-coverage/apple-health-non-emergency-medical-transportation-nemt |
| Adult dental (Apple Health) | Exams, cleanings, fillings, etc. | Provider availability varies | https://www.hca.wa.gov/health-care-services-supports/apple-health-medicaid-coverage/apple-health-dental-coverage |
Sources: linked agency pages.
How to apply without the runaround
- Use Washington Connection to apply for multiple benefits in one place: https://www.washingtonconnection.org
- If going in person, find your nearest DSHS Community Services Office: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/office-locations
- Ask for help with the application from your AAA or a community organization listed by 211.
- If your application is denied and you think it’s wrong, you can appeal. DSHS explains your hearing rights in decision letters. Legal help: WashingtonLawHelp (Northwest Justice Project): https://www.washingtonlawhelp.org
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1) I need shelter tonight. Who do I call?
A: Start with 211 to find available beds and warming/cooling centers: https://wa211.org. In King County, see Regional Access Points via the King County Regional Homelessness Authority: https://kcrha.org/get-help/
Q2) Can I get emergency food while my Basic Food application is pending?
A: Yes—food banks and pantries can help right away. Call 211 to locate the nearest one. Basic Food may also be expedited if your income and resources are very low. Program info: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/community-services-offices/basic-food
Q3) I’m a homeowner 61+ on a fixed income. Can I lower my property taxes?
A: You may qualify for the Senior/Disabled Property Tax Exemption or Deferral. Rules and income limits vary by county. Start here and contact your assessor: https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/property-tax/senior-citizens-and-people-disabilities-exemptions
Q4) My electric bill doubled. What help is in Washington?
A: Check LIHEAP via the WA Department of Commerce: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/programs/energy/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap/ and ask your utility about discounts or hardship funds (for example, Seattle’s Utility Discount Program: https://www.seattle.gov/humanservices/services-and-programs/utility-assistance/utility-discount-program). Call 211 for more local options.
Q5) Is there a phone discount for seniors?
A: The federal Lifeline program can reduce the cost of phone or internet for low-income households. Learn more and apply: https://www.lifelinesupport.org. Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program ended in 2024—see updates: https://www.fcc.gov/acp.
Q6) Who can help me choose a Medicare plan and check if I qualify for savings?
A: SHIBA provides free, unbiased counseling: 1-800-562-6900 or https://www.insurance.wa.gov/statewide-health-insurance-benefits-advisors-shiba. For possible premium help, see HCA’s Medicare Savings Programs: https://www.hca.wa.gov/free-or-low-cost-health-care/program-administration/medicare-savings-programs
Q7) I have Apple Health. Can I get a ride to my doctor?
A: Many Apple Health members qualify for non‑emergency medical transportation. Find your regional broker and how to book: https://www.hca.wa.gov/health-care-services-supports/apple-health-medicaid-coverage/apple-health-non-emergency-medical-transportation-nemt
Q8) I’m facing eviction. Do I have a right to a lawyer?
A: Washington provides a right to counsel for eligible low‑income tenants in eviction cases. See the Office of Civil Legal Aid for details and how to connect: https://ocla.wa.gov/programs-services/eviction-right-to-counsel
Q9) How do I report suspected elder abuse or financial exploitation?
A: Call 1-866-363-4276 (APS) or see reporting options here: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/report-adult-abuse-neglect-or-exploitation. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Q10) Are there food programs just for seniors in Washington?
A: Yes. The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (produce coupons) and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (monthly food box) are both available to eligible older adults. Learn more here: SFMNP: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program and CSFP: https://agr.wa.gov/departments/human-health-and-safety/food-assistance
Q11) I’m a veteran and need help with rent and utilities. Where do I start?
A: Contact your county veterans program via WDVA’s directory: https://www.dva.wa.gov/county-services/county-veterans-programs. Ask about emergency assistance and document requirements. Also talk to VA social work about HUD‑VASH (if homeless or at risk): https://www.va.gov/homeless/
Q12) I live in a rural area with limited transportation. Any options?
A: Ask your AAA about volunteer driver programs and call your transit agency about dial‑a‑ride. If you have Apple Health, NEMT may cover rides to medical visits: https://www.hca.wa.gov/health-care-services-supports/apple-health-medicaid-coverage/apple-health-non-emergency-medical-transportation-nemt
Q13) I think a debt collector is harassing me. Who can help?
A: The Washington Attorney General has consumer resources and complaint options: https://www.atg.wa.gov/file-complaint. For legal advice, see WashingtonLawHelp: https://www.washingtonlawhelp.org
Q14) Can I get help with home repairs to make my house safer?
A: Low-income seniors may qualify for energy-related repairs through Weatherization: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/programs/energy/weatherization/. Rural homeowners can also look at USDA Section 504 Home Repair: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
Statewide Resource Directory
Use these to connect quickly with the right office.
Table 6. Statewide contacts
| Agency/Program | What they handle | Contact/Link |
|---|---|---|
| Washington 211 | Local services finder (shelter, food, utilities) | Call 211 or https://wa211.org |
| DSHS – Washington Connection | Apply for food, cash, and more | https://www.washingtonconnection.org |
| DSHS Adult Protective Services | Report abuse/neglect/exploitation | 1-866-363-4276; https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/report-adult-abuse-neglect-or-exploitation |
| Health Care Authority (HCA) | Apple Health, MSPs, NEMT | https://www.hca.wa.gov |
| SHIBA (Insurance Commissioner) | Medicare counseling | 1-800-562-6900; https://www.insurance.wa.gov/statewide-health-insurance-benefits-advisors-shiba |
| Dept. of Commerce | LIHEAP, Weatherization | LIHEAP: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/programs/energy/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap/; Weatherization: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/programs/energy/weatherization/ |
| Dept. of Revenue | Senior property tax relief | https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/property-tax/senior-citizens-and-people-disabilities-exemptions |
| Attorney General | Consumer protection | https://www.atg.wa.gov/file-complaint |
| WDVA | Veteran services and county aid | https://www.dva.wa.gov |
| Eldercare Locator (ACL) | Nationwide aging services referral | 1-800-677-1116; https://eldercare.acl.gov |
Sources: linked agency pages.
Reality checks, warnings, and practical tips
- Documentation: If you don’t have everything, submit the application and ask for extra time to provide the rest.
- Waitlists: Housing vouchers and subsidized apartments may take months. Keep checking and ask about senior‑specific buildings.
- Funding windows: Utility and rental aid often open and close during the year. Ask 211 when the next round starts.
- Scams: Government agencies don’t charge to apply for benefits. Don’t pay anyone who promises “guaranteed approval.” Report scams to the WA Attorney General: https://www.atg.wa.gov/file-complaint
- Keep records: Write down dates, names, and confirmation numbers. Keep copies of forms and notices.
- Language access: DSHS and HCA offer free interpreters. Ask for one when calling or at appointments.
Disclaimer
Programs, eligibility rules, and funding levels change. This guide is for general information, not legal or financial advice. Always verify details directly with the agency or program using the links provided.
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.
About the Authors