Grants for Seniors in Indianapolis
Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Indianapolis (2025 Authority Guide)
Last updated: August 2025
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Key Takeaways
- Indianapolis seniors can stack multiple programs: property tax relief, Medicaid waivers for in‑home care, SNAP, LIHEAP, and transportation discounts.
- Start with your Area Agency on Aging for personalized help in Marion County and surrounding areas: CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions (Area 6) at (317) 803‑3060 or visit the CICOA website.
- Deadlines matter: property tax exemptions are due by May 10 through the Marion County Auditor; LIHEAP opens in early November and runs out fast in urban areas.
- Care at home is possible: Indiana’s Aged & Disabled (A&D) Waiver and PathWays for Aging coordinate supports so many seniors can remain at home rather than move to a facility.
- Expect waitlists (housing, some in‑home services) and provider shortages in parts of Central Indiana—apply early and keep records.
- Use official portals to apply: Indiana Benefits Portal for SNAP/Medicaid, Marion County Auditor for property tax deductions, Indianapolis Housing Agency for Section 8, and IndyGo for reduced fares and paratransit.
- Get unbiased Medicare help: call Indiana SHIP at (800) 452‑4800 or visit the Indiana SHIP website.
- If you’re a veteran, call the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs at (317) 232‑3910 and the VA Medical Center in Indianapolis at (317) 554‑0000 for specialized aid including Aid & Attendance.
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If You Need Emergency Help
- Life‑threatening emergency: Call 911.
- 24/7 resource navigation: Dial 211 or visit United Way 211 for food, shelter, utility help, and more.
- Elder abuse/neglect/exploitation: Call Indiana Adult Protective Services at (800) 992‑6978 or report online via Indiana FSSA.
- Crisis energy help (shutoff notice/heat emergency): Contact your local Community Action Agency via 211 and the Indiana LIHEAP page.
- Veterans crisis: Dial 988 and press 1, or visit the VA Crisis Line.
- Emergency grants (Central Indiana): Contact the Central Indiana Senior Fund through the Central Indiana Community Foundation at (317) 634‑2423 (funding limited; screenings apply).
Reality check: Emergency programs triage the most urgent cases first and may require documentation. Be ready with your ID, proof of address, recent bills, and any shutoff/eviction notices.
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How to Use This Guide
- Skim the Quick‑Start table.
- Apply to property tax relief, Medicaid/PathWays, and LIHEAP first (deadlines and waitlists).
- Use SHIP for Medicare decisions.
- Call your Area Agency on Aging (CICOA) for hands‑on application help and service coordination.
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Quick‑Start: Most‑Used Programs for Indianapolis Seniors
| Need | Program | What It Does | Who Qualifies | Where to Apply/Call |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lower property taxes | Over‑65 Property Tax Deduction & Circuit Breaker (Marion County) | Reduces assessed value and can cap annual increases | Age 65+; income and homeownership rules apply | Marion County Auditor – see Property Tax Deductions page or call (317) 327‑4646 |
| In‑home care | Aged & Disabled (A&D) Waiver | Personal care, homemaker, adult day services, home mods | Care need + income/asset rules | Indiana FSSA Division of Aging or call (800) 457‑8283; start via CICOA |
| Coordinated care | PathWays for Aging | Managed Medicaid for many seniors 65+; supports care coordination | Medicaid‑eligible; many are dual Medicare‑Medicaid | PathWays for Aging (FSSA) or call (800) 457‑8283 |
| Food help | SNAP (Food Stamps) | Monthly EBT for groceries; senior-friendly deductions | Income/asset rules; seniors have higher asset limits | Indiana Benefits Portal (FSSA DFR) or call (800) 403‑0864 |
| Utility bills | LIHEAP | Annual heating/cooling help; crisis funds | Income limits; seniors prioritized | LIHEAP – Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA) or dial 211 |
| Health coverage | Medicaid (Traditional/Spend‑Down/MSPs) | Pays medical costs; MSPs can pay Medicare Part B | Income/asset rules vary by program | Indiana Benefits Portal |
| Medicare help | SHIP | Free, unbiased Medicare counseling | All Medicare beneficiaries | Indiana SHIP Hotline (800) 452‑4800 |
| Dental | IU School of Dentistry; FQHC clinics; Donated Dental Services | Low‑cost care; sliding‑fee; volunteer network for complex cases | Varies by program | IU School of Dentistry patient care; Eskenazi Health Center; Indiana Donated Dental Services (IDA) |
| Housing | Section 8 (IHA) | Rent = ~30% income; voucher covers rest (up to limits) | Income limits | Indianapolis Housing Agency (IHA) – check waiting list status |
Sources: Indiana FSSA; Indiana SHIP; Indiana IHCDA LIHEAP; Marion County Auditor; IHA.
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Property Tax Relief (Marion County and Surroundings)
Over‑65 Property Tax Deduction and Circuit Breaker (Marion County)
- What it is: An age‑based deduction that reduces your home’s assessed value, and a credit that can limit future tax bill increases.
- Why it matters: Many Indianapolis homeowners on fixed incomes save hundreds of dollars per year.
- How to apply: Through the Marion County Auditor. See the county’s Property Tax Deductions page for instructions and forms, or call (317) 327‑4646. Apply by May 10 for the current year.
- Key rules: Must be 65+, own and occupy the home, meet income limits, and apply by the deadline. Documentation required (ID, proof of age, tax bill/parcel number, income proof).
Reality check: If you miss the May 10 deadline, you lose a full year of savings. Put a reminder on your calendar and re‑check annually for any rule changes.
Table: Marion County Property Tax Relief
| Program | Core Benefit | Deadline | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Over‑65 Deduction | Reduces assessed value on primary residence | May 10 each year | Marion County Auditor – Property Tax Deductions |
| Over‑65 Circuit Breaker | Caps future property tax increases for eligible seniors | May 10 each year | Same as above |
Tip: If you live in surrounding counties (Hamilton, Hendricks, Johnson, Boone, Hancock, Morgan, Shelby), contact your county auditor for over‑65 property tax deduction forms and deadlines. Search “[Your County] Indiana Auditor property tax deduction.”
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Health and Long‑Term Care
Aged & Disabled (A&D) Waiver (Indiana Medicaid)
- What it does: Funds in‑home support so you can stay safely at home instead of moving to a nursing facility. Services may include personal care, homemaker help, adult day services, respite for caregivers, home modifications (ramps, grab bars), PERS/medical alert devices, and transportation for medical needs.
- Who qualifies: 65+ or disabled adults who meet nursing‑facility level of care and Medicaid financial rules (home and one car are typically exempt). Medical necessity is required.
- How to start: Contact the Indiana FSSA Division of Aging or call (800) 457‑8283. In Marion County and nearby, CICOA can screen and help with the application.
Useful links:
- Indiana FSSA – Aged & Disabled Waiver overview
- CICOA Aging & In‑Home Solutions
Reality check: Urban counties like Marion may have wait times of several months. Apply early, keep copies of all paperwork, and ask about interim options (e.g., CHOICE, caregiver training, adult day availability).
PathWays for Aging (Medicaid Managed Care for many 65+)
- What it does: Coordinates your care across providers, includes telehealth options, and helps manage transportation and prescriptions if you’re Medicaid‑eligible (many are also on Medicare).
- How to apply: Visit PathWays for Aging (FSSA) or call (800) 457‑8283.
Indiana CHOICE Program (Older Americans Act Services)
- What it does: Limited in‑home services (meals, homemaker, personal care), transportation coordination, PERS. No strict income limit; services prioritized by need.
- How to apply: Contact CICOA Aging & In‑Home Solutions.
Medicare help: SHIP
- What it does: Free, unbiased help choosing Medicare Advantage/Part D plans, resolving billing errors, and screening for Medicare Savings Programs (which can pay your Part B premium).
- Contact: Call (800) 452‑4800 or visit the Indiana SHIP site.
Local Health Systems and Safety‑Net Care
- Eskenazi Health (public safety‑net; multiple community health centers): see Eskenazi Health and Eskenazi Health Center locations.
- IU Health and Community Health Network (major systems): explore financial assistance and charity care policies on their websites.
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) offer sliding‑fee care and often accept Medicaid/Medicare. Use HRSA’s Health Center Finder.
Tip: Bring your Medicare card(s), Medicaid card (if any), ID, proof of address, and recent bank statements to eligibility visits. Ask clinics about 340B pharmacy discounts.
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Food and Nutrition
SNAP (Food Stamps) – Senior Rules
- What it does: Monthly EBT benefits for groceries. Seniors can deduct out‑of‑pocket medical costs >$35/month, which can increase benefits.
- Who qualifies: Income and assets (higher asset limits for 60+). No work requirement for 60+.
- Apply: Use the Indiana Benefits Portal (FSSA DFR) or call (800) 403‑0864.
Tip: Save receipts for Medicare premiums, prescriptions, dental, medical travel, and devices—these can count toward SNAP’s medical expense deduction for seniors.
Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)
- What it does: Seasonal vouchers for fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs at authorized farmers markets and farm stands.
- Learn more: See Indiana’s SFMNP page (Indiana Department of Health). Distribution is first‑come, first‑served—call early in May to ask about dates and sites in Marion County.
Congregate and Home‑Delivered Meals
- What it does: Nutritious meals at senior/community centers and home delivery for homebound seniors. Also includes nutrition education.
- Get connected: Contact CICOA for meals in Indianapolis/Marion County.
Food Pantries and Fresh Produce
- Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana operates a large network and mobile pantries in Central Indiana. Use the pantry locator on Gleaners’ site or call 211 for locations and hours.
Reality check: Demand is high. Home‑delivered meal waitlists in urban Indy can be several weeks. Ask about frozen or shelf‑stable boxes as a bridge.
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Utility and Energy Assistance
LIHEAP (Energy Assistance Program)
- What it does: Helps with winter heating bills, summer cooling, and crisis situations (like shutoffs). Funds are first‑come, first‑served.
- Apply: Visit the Indiana LIHEAP page (IHCDA) or dial 211 to find your local intake site.
- Timeline: Regular season typically opens around November 1; crisis help is year‑round.
Weatherization Assistance Program
- What it does: Free home energy upgrades (insulation, air sealing, furnace testing or replacement when cost‑effective, safety items).
- Apply: See the Indiana Weatherization program page (IHCDA).
Local Utility Programs
- AES Indiana (formerly IPL) – assistance, budget billing, payment plans, and energy savings programs: see AES Indiana Assistance Programs.
- Duke Energy Indiana – assistance and Budget Billing: see Duke Energy Indiana Assistance.
- Citizens Energy Group (gas/water in Indianapolis) – assistance and flexible plans: see Citizens Energy Assistance.
- NIPSCO serves Northwest Indiana (not Indianapolis). If you recently moved from “The Region,” check NIPSCO Assistance.
Reality check: Call utilities before you fall behind. Many offer extended payment plans, stop late fees during approved assistance periods, and can flag medical needs.
Table: Utility Help at a Glance (Indianapolis)
| Program | What It Covers | How to Apply | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| LIHEAP | Heat/cooling bill help; crisis | Indiana LIHEAP (IHCDA) | Apply early; funds can run out |
| Weatherization | Energy‑saving home upgrades | Indiana Weatherization (IHCDA) | Waitlists are common |
| AES Indiana Programs | Payment plans, aid, rebates | AES Indiana Assistance | Verify eligibility by ZIP |
| Citizens Energy | Gas/water bill help | Citizens Energy Assistance | Coordinate with LIHEAP |
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Housing and Home Repairs
Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (Indianapolis Housing Agency)
- What it does: Tenants typically pay about 30% of adjusted income toward rent; voucher pays the rest up to limits.
- Apply/check status: Visit the Indianapolis Housing Agency (IHA). Waiting lists may open and close; waits in large cities are often years, not months.
- Tip: If you can, also join nearby housing authority waitlists (e.g., Hendricks, Hamilton, Johnson counties) to increase your chances.
Public Housing and Senior Buildings
- Contact IHA and local nonprofit housing providers for senior/accessible units. Ask 211 for current openings and affordable housing search tools.
Property Tax Relief (Homeowners)
- See Property Tax section above. Seniors who own their home should not skip this; savings can be significant.
Home Repairs and Modifications
- A&D Waiver can fund medically necessary accessibility modifications (ramps, grab bars, lifts) when approved in your service plan.
- Weatherization helps with energy repairs (see above).
- Nonprofits may assist with small safety fixes; ask CICOA and 211 for current programs.
- Note: USDA Single‑Family Housing Repair Grants are for rural addresses, not most Indianapolis ZIP codes. If you live in a rural part of surrounding counties, see USDA Rural Development – Home Repair.
Reality check: Contractor availability can delay projects. Get at least two bids for any work not covered by a program and check licenses via the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency.
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Transportation (Indianapolis and Central Indiana)
IndyGo (City Bus) and Reduced Fares
- What it offers: Fixed‑route bus service throughout much of Indianapolis. Seniors can get reduced fares with a Half‑Fare ID. IndyGo also offers mobile ticketing and trip planners.
- Learn more/apply for reduced fare: See IndyGo Fares & Passes.
IndyGo Open Door (Paratransit)
- What it offers: Door‑to‑door service for ADA‑eligible riders who cannot use fixed routes.
- How to qualify and schedule rides: See IndyGo Open Door.
Tip: Book paratransit rides 1–7 days in advance. High‑demand days fill fast. Be ready for shared rides and pickup windows.
Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
- If you have Medicaid, you may qualify for free rides to covered medical appointments and the pharmacy. Indiana’s vendor is Modivcare (formerly LogistiCare).
- Schedule: Call Modivcare using the number on your Medicaid card or visit Modivcare Indiana.
Other Options
- CICOA can connect you to volunteer driver programs, caregiver ride support, and ride vouchers when available.
- Many clinics and pharmacies offer delivery—ask your providers.
- Telehealth can reduce travel—ask your providers if visits can be done by phone or video.
Table: Transportation Options Summary
| Option | Who It’s For | How to Access |
|---|---|---|
| IndyGo Reduced Fare | 65+ who ride city buses | IndyGo Fares & Passes |
| IndyGo Open Door | ADA‑eligible riders needing door‑to‑door | IndyGo Open Door |
| Medicaid NEMT | Medicaid members going to medical/pharmacy | Modivcare Indiana |
| Volunteer Rides | Seniors needing rides in gaps | Contact CICOA or dial 211 |
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Dental Care (Low‑Cost and No‑Cost Options)
- Indiana Medicaid (for eligible seniors) covers limited dental services; coverage is narrower than private insurance. Verify current benefits via Indiana Medicaid Member Handbook or call (800) 457‑8283.
- Indiana Donated Dental Services (Indiana Dental Association) connects eligible seniors to volunteer dentists for comprehensive care at no cost. See Indiana Donated Dental Services or call the Indiana Dental Association at (317) 634‑2610.
- IU School of Dentistry (Indianapolis) provides supervised student care at reduced rates. See IU School of Dentistry Patient Care or call (317) 274‑7957.
- FQHC dental clinics provide sliding‑fee care. In Indianapolis, check Eskenazi Health Centers and other FQHCs via HRSA’s Health Center Finder.
Reality check: Donated dental programs often have waitlists. Student clinics take longer per visit but can be far more affordable for dentures and major work.
Table: Dental Options in Indianapolis
| Program | Typical Cost | Services | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicaid Dental | Limited copays where applicable | Emergencies, extractions, limited prosthodontics | Indiana Medicaid – (800) 457‑8283 |
| Donated Dental Services | $0 (if approved) | Comprehensive volunteer care | Indiana DDS (through IDA) |
| IU School of Dentistry | Low, published fee schedule | Cleanings, fillings, dentures, extractions | IU School of Dentistry Patient Care |
| FQHC Dental | Sliding fee | Cleanings, basic restorative, referrals | Eskenazi Health Centers; HRSA Finder |
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Money and Benefits
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- What it does: Monthly cash benefit for very low‑income seniors and disabled adults; comes with automatic Medicaid in Indiana.
- Apply: Online or by phone via the Social Security Administration – SSI (800) 772‑1213. Amounts change annually; check the current Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) on SSA’s site.
SNAP (See Food Section)
- Apply via the Indiana Benefits Portal. Seniors can often certify for 24 months, and medical expenses can increase benefits.
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) and Extra Help
- What they do: Can pay your Medicare Part B premium and reduce drug costs.
- Apply: Indiana Benefits Portal. For plan help, call Indiana SHIP (800) 452‑4800.
Central Indiana Senior Fund (Emergency Help)
- What it does: Limited, short‑term grants for urgent needs in the Indianapolis metro (utilities, prescriptions, small repairs).
- How to access: Through the Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF) or partner agencies. See CICF – Central Indiana Senior Fund or call (317) 634‑2423.
Reality check: SSI and SNAP amounts vary based on income and deductions, and city rents may outpace cash benefits. Stack programs to fill the gaps (e.g., LIHEAP + SNAP + property tax relief).
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Work, Training, and Purpose
- SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program): Paid, part‑time training (about 20 hours/week at at least minimum wage) through nonprofit host sites to help you transition to permanent work. In Central Indiana, contact Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana (SCSEP) or your Area Agency on Aging.
- WorkOne Indy (Indiana DWD): Job search help, workshops, and employer connections. See WorkOne Indy (EmployIndy) or the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.
- Volunteering: CICOA, libraries, hospitals, and food pantries (Gleaners) need volunteers. Volunteering can build references and community.
Reality check: Rural and suburban areas around Indianapolis may have fewer host sites; transportation is often the limiting factor. Ask SCSEP for mileage stipends or transit passes where available.
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Veterans in Indianapolis
- Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA): Free claims help for VA disability, pensions, and Aid & Attendance; property tax exemptions for disabled vets; emergency grants via the Military Family Relief Fund. See IDVA or call (317) 232‑3910.
- Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center (Indianapolis): Full‑service VA hospital with geriatrics and specialty care. Call (317) 554‑0000 or visit the Roudebush VA site.
- Aid & Attendance Pension: Extra monthly funds for wartime veterans/surviving spouses who need help with daily activities or are housebound. Learn more at VA Pension with Aid and Attendance or contact IDVA for application help.
- Indiana Veterans’ Home (West Lafayette): Nursing/assisted living for eligible veterans and spouses. See Indiana Veterans’ Home.
Reality check: Aid & Attendance applications are document‑heavy and can take months. Using IDVA’s free assistance improves accuracy and speeds up processing.
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Inclusive Support: LGBTQ+, Disabled, Tribal, and Rural Seniors
LGBTQ+ Seniors (Indianapolis)
- Care navigation: CICOA staff can connect you to affirming providers.
- Community support: Indy Pride maintains resource links and events—see Indy Pride resources.
- National support: SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline (1‑877‑360‑LGBT) offers friendly support and referrals.
Tip: For Medicare plan choices, ask SHIP to check provider networks with LGBTQ+‑inclusive clinics.
Seniors with Disabilities
- A&D Waiver and CHOICE can fund in‑home help and safety equipment (see Health section).
- ADA Paratransit: IndyGo Open Door for riders who cannot use fixed routes.
- Assistive technology: The INDATA Project at Easterseals Crossroads (Indianapolis) offers device demos, loans, and tech reuse. See INDATA at Easterseals Crossroads.
American Indian/Alaska Native Seniors (Central Indiana)
- American Indian Center of Indiana (Indianapolis) provides navigation, employment support, and community services. See American Indian Center of Indiana.
- Members of federally recognized tribes should also ask about IHS/Tribal health and 638 programs; use the IHS Find Health Care tool and call to confirm service areas.
Rural Seniors in Central Indiana’s Collar Counties
- Expect fewer transportation options and fewer in‑home care providers compared to Marion County.
- Use your county’s AAA line (CICOA covers Marion and surrounding counties) for volunteer rides and mobile services when available.
- Consider telehealth and prescription delivery to reduce travel.
- For rural home repairs and accessibility work, check USDA Rural Development – Home Repair (outside most Indianapolis ZIPs).
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Application Tips That Save Time
- Create a document folder: state ID, Social Security card, Medicare/Medicaid cards, two recent utility bills, lease or property tax bill, last 3 bank statements, Social Security award letter, pension statements.
- Keep a call log: dates, phone numbers, names, confirmation numbers.
- Take photos/scans of everything you submit.
- Ask for written approval/denial notices and note appeal deadlines.
- Re‑apply early for annual programs (e.g., LIHEAP, property tax deductions).
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Common Barriers—and How to Navigate Them
- Long waits (Section 8, some in‑home services): Get on multiple waitlists; update your contact info; respond quickly to mail; check spam folders.
- Transportation gaps: Apply for IndyGo reduced fare; use Open Door if eligible; ask clinics about telehealth and delivery options; coordinate same‑day multi‑stop trips.
- Digital access: Use public libraries (free computers, printers, and staff help) and ask CICOA about application assistance by phone or in person.
- Healthcare access: Ask PathWays or your AAA about mobile clinics and specialists who do telehealth for seniors.
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Program Reality Checks
- Property tax savings vary by neighborhood rates; missing May 10 loses a year.
- Medicaid waiver services depend on provider capacity; you may have to accept part‑time hours at first.
- SNAP’s senior medical deduction is underused; bring proof to your interview to maximize your benefit.
- Utility help: funds can run out in Indianapolis before spring—apply early, and ask about budget billing.
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Resources by Region (Central Indiana)
Marion County (Indianapolis) and nearby counties (Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Johnson, Morgan, Shelby) often share program structures but have different offices and waitlists.
- Area Agency on Aging: CICOA Aging & In‑Home Solutions (Area 6) – (317) 803‑3060 – CICOA website.
- Property Tax (Marion County): Marion County Auditor – Property Tax Deductions – (317) 327‑4646.
- Medicaid/SNAP/PathWays: Indiana Benefits Portal (FSSA DFR) – (800) 403‑0864.
- LIHEAP/Weatherization (statewide info and local site finder): Indiana LIHEAP (IHCDA) and Weatherization (IHCDA); or dial 211.
- Housing: Indianapolis Housing Agency – IHA website – (317) 226‑7200. For surrounding county housing authorities, dial 211 or search “[County] housing authority Indiana.”
- Transportation: IndyGo and IndyGo Open Door.
- Dental: IU School of Dentistry Patient Care – (317) 274‑7957; Indiana Donated Dental Services; Eskenazi Health Centers.
For county‑specific help outside Marion, start with:
- Hamilton County: Call CICOA; housing via Hamilton County Housing Agency (search official county site).
- Hendricks, Johnson, Hancock, Boone, Morgan, Shelby: Call CICOA; check your county auditor for tax deductions; use 211 for local housing/LIHEAP offices.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Where should I start if I need several types of help at once?
A: Call CICOA Aging & In‑Home Solutions (317) 803‑3060. They can screen you for meals, in‑home care, caregiver support, transportation, and help you apply for Medicaid waivers and SNAP through FSSA. Also dial 211 for immediate food and utility resources.
Q: How do I apply for the over‑65 property tax deduction in Indianapolis?
A: File with the Marion County Auditor by May 10. Visit the Auditor’s Property Tax Deductions page for forms and instructions or call (317) 327‑4646. Have your ID, proof of age, parcel number, and income documents ready.
Q: What’s the difference between the A&D Waiver and PathWays for Aging?
A: The A&D Waiver pays for in‑home supports (personal care, homemaker, adult day, home modifications) for people who meet nursing‑facility level of care. PathWays for Aging is a Medicaid managed care program that coordinates your health care and benefits (many members also have Medicare). See Indiana FSSA – A&D Waiver and PathWays for Aging.
Q: How long is the wait for Section 8 in Indianapolis?
A: It can be several years. Check current status and how to sign up for alerts at the Indianapolis Housing Agency site. If you can, get on lists in neighboring counties to improve your odds.
Q: I can’t afford my electric and gas bills. What can I do now?
A: Apply for LIHEAP via the Indiana LIHEAP page or dial 211 to find your intake site. Call your utility (AES Indiana or Citizens Energy Group) to arrange a payment plan and ask about hardship programs. Don’t wait for a shutoff notice.
Q: Who can help me make the most of my Medicare and lower my drug costs?
A: Call Indiana SHIP at (800) 452‑4800 for free plan comparisons, Extra Help screening, and Medicare Savings Programs. They are unbiased and do not sell plans.
Q: I can’t ride the regular bus due to my mobility. What are my options?
A: Apply for IndyGo Open Door paratransit. If you have Medicaid, you may also qualify for Modivcare rides to medical appointments. Ask your clinic about telehealth and delivery options.
Q: Are there grants for emergency home repairs in Indianapolis?
A: Weatherization (IHCDA) can help with energy‑related fixes; Medicaid A&D Waiver can fund medically necessary accessibility changes; and some nonprofits have limited repair funds (ask CICOA and 211). USDA repair grants are generally for rural addresses, not most Indianapolis ZIPs.
Q: I’m a veteran—where do I go first?
A: Contact IDVA at (317) 232‑3910 for free claims help and emergency aid through the Military Family Relief Fund. For healthcare, call the Roudebush VA Medical Center at (317) 554‑0000.
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Handy Program Tables
Table: Health and Long‑Term Care Programs
| Program | What It Covers | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| A&D Waiver | In‑home supports, respite, home mods, adult day | Indiana FSSA – Division of Aging |
| PathWays for Aging | Coordinated Medicaid care for many 65+ | PathWays for Aging (FSSA) |
| CHOICE | Limited in‑home services, meals, PERS | CICOA |
| SHIP | Medicare counseling/appeals help | Indiana SHIP |
Table: Food and Nutrition Programs
| Program | Benefit | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP | Monthly EBT; senior deductions | Indiana Benefits Portal |
| SFMNP | Farmers market vouchers (seasonal) | Indiana SFMNP page |
| Congregate/Home‑Delivered Meals | Meals + nutrition education | CICOA |
| Food Pantries/Mobile | Emergency groceries | Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana; 211 |
Table: Core Application Portals and Hotlines
| Need | Link/Phone |
|---|---|
| Medicaid/SNAP/PathWays | Indiana Benefits Portal; (800) 403‑0864 |
| Area Agency on Aging | CICOA Aging & In‑Home Solutions (317) 803‑3060 |
| Property Tax (Marion Co.) | Marion County Auditor – Property Tax Deductions; (317) 327‑4646 |
| LIHEAP/Weatherization | Indiana LIHEAP / Weatherization (IHCDA); 211 |
| Medicare help | Indiana SHIP (800) 452‑4800 |
| Section 8 | Indianapolis Housing Agency |
| Transportation | IndyGo; IndyGo Open Door |
| Veterans | Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs; Roudebush VA Medical Center |
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Sources (Official and Trusted)
- Indiana Family & Social Services Administration (FSSA): Indiana FSSA
- Indiana Benefits Portal (apply for SNAP and Medicaid): Indiana Benefits Portal
- PathWays for Aging: PathWays for Aging (FSSA)
- Indiana Division of Aging (A&D Waiver and CHOICE): Indiana FSSA – Division of Aging
- Indiana SHIP (Medicare counseling): Indiana SHIP
- Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (LIHEAP/Weatherization): Indiana LIHEAP; Indiana Weatherization
- Marion County Auditor (property tax deductions): Marion County Auditor – Property Tax Deductions
- Indianapolis Housing Agency (Section 8): Indianapolis Housing Agency
- IndyGo (fares and paratransit): IndyGo Fares & Passes; IndyGo Open Door
- IU School of Dentistry patient care: IU School of Dentistry Patient Care
- Indiana Donated Dental Services (IDA): Indiana Donated Dental Services
- Eskenazi Health: Eskenazi Health
- 211 Indiana: United Way 211
- Indiana Adult Protective Services: Indiana APS (FSSA)
- Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs: Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs
- Roudebush VA Medical Center (Indianapolis): Roudebush VA
- INDATA Project (assistive technology): INDATA – Easterseals Crossroads
- American Indian Center of Indiana: American Indian Center of Indiana
- Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana: Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana
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Disclaimer
Program details, amounts, eligibility criteria, and contacts can change. Always confirm with the official program source or agency before applying. This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, or medical advice.
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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.
