Grants for Seniors in Irving

Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Irving, Texas (2026 Guide)

Last updated: December 18, 2025

If You Need Emergency Help (start here)

• Life-threatening emergency: Call 911.
• Mental health crisis: Call or text 988 or use the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline chat: https://988lifeline.org/
• Abuse, neglect, or exploitation (at home or in a facility): Call Texas Adult Protective Services 24/7 at 1‑800‑252‑5400 or report online via the Texas Abuse Hotline: https://www.txabusehotline.org/
• Quick local referrals to food, shelter, bills help: Call 2‑1‑1 or visit 2‑1‑1 Texas: https://www.211texas.org/
• Eviction or homelessness concerns: Use HUD’s Find Shelter: https://www.hud.gov/findshelter and call 2‑1‑1 to reach your local Continuum of Care.

Key Takeaways

• Your main gateways to help are Your Texas Benefits (state benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare Savings), the Dallas Area Agency on Aging (caregiver support, Medicare counseling, meals), and your housing/utility providers.
• Expect waitlists for housing vouchers and some home repairs. Apply early, join multiple lists, and ask about alternatives while you wait.
• Real help exists for rent (Section 8 and affordable apartments), home repairs (USDA 504, Weatherization), food (SNAP, Meals on Wheels), healthcare costs (Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, Extra Help), utilities (CEAP), and transportation (DART reduced fares and ADA paratransit; free medical rides for Medicaid members).
• Use official sources, keep copies of everything, and be cautious of scams. No one can “guarantee” benefits for a fee.

Quick-Start Directory (Apply Here First)

Sources: Texas HHSC, TDHCA, HUD, USDA, Meals on Wheels Texas.

Irving at a Glance

• Irving is in Dallas County and is served by regional systems for housing, aging services, and transit.
• For Texas seniors overall (65+), the American Community Survey 2023 reports: 4,194,990 seniors (13.8% of the state), median age 72.9, 35.6% with a disability, and 12.3% below poverty. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2023 (Texas S0103 via https://data.census.gov/).

Reality check: City programs often open and close seasonally based on funding. Always verify current status on the official city website and with providers listed below.

Money and Food Help

SNAP and TSAP (Simplified SNAP for Seniors)

• What it is: Monthly funds on a Lone Star Card to buy groceries. TSAP is a simpler SNAP application for households where all members are 60+ or have a disability and no one is working.
• Who qualifies: Based on income, household size, and immigration status. Medical deductions can help seniors who are “just over” income limits.
• Apply: Use the HHSC SNAP page: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/food/snap-food-benefits and the TSAP overview: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/food/snap-food-benefits/texas-simplified-application-project-tsap-snap-food-benefits or apply at Your Texas Benefits: https://www.YourTexasBenefits.com/

Tip: Gather your Medicare premiums, copays, and other out-of-pocket medical costs. Seniors 60+ can deduct many medical expenses, which may raise your SNAP amount.

Meals on Wheels & Senior Meals

• What it does: Home-delivered meals and regular check-ins for homebound older adults. Some programs offer pet food, safety checks, or short-term meal help after a hospital stay.
• Find service: Use the Meals on Wheels Texas directory: https://mealsonwheelstexas.org/
• State support: Texas Department of Agriculture Home-Delivered Meal Grant helps local programs: https://www.texasagriculture.gov/GrantsServices/Grants/HomeDeliveredMealGrant.aspx

Reality check: Expect waitlists. Ask for frozen meals, wellness calls, or community dining while you wait.

Local Food Pantry Example (Irving)

• Irving Cares offers a food pantry and limited emergency aid for Irving residents (when funds are available). See their site for current hours and requirements: https://www.irvingcares.org/
  • Reality check: Documentation (ID, proof of Irving address) is typically required. Assistance is not guaranteed and may depend on funding.

Cash Help (Limited): TANF for Kinship Caregivers

• What it is: Temporary Assistance for Needy Families may help if you’re a grandparent or relative raising a child.
• Who qualifies: Families with children and low income.
• Apply: TANF info and application via HHSC: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/financial/cash

Property Tax Savings for Seniors 65+

• Over‑65 Homestead Exemption: Reduces property taxes on your primary home. Details from the Texas Comptroller: https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/exemptions/
• Property Tax Deferral (65+ or disabled): You may delay paying property taxes until you move or sell; interest accrues. Texas Comptroller guidance: https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/exemptions/elderly-disabled.php
• Dallas County specifics: File your homestead and over‑65 exemption with the Dallas Central Appraisal District (DCAD): https://www.dcad.org/

Reality check: Deferral is not forgiveness. Interest adds up. Consider counseling from a HUD-approved housing counselor: https://hudgov-answers.force.com/housingcounseling/s/

Phone & Internet Discounts

• Lifeline: Monthly discount on phone/internet for eligible low-income households. Check and apply: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
• ACP ended in 2024. Ask your provider about their own low-cost plans for seniors or low-income customers.

Housing and Rent Help in Irving

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV) and Public Housing

• What it does: Vouchers help pay part of your rent in private apartments; public housing offers subsidized units.
• Who qualifies: Income-based; seniors and people with disabilities often receive preference.
• Where to apply:
  • HUD’s list of Texas housing authorities (find Irving/Dallas area): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
  • TDHCA HCV (limited areas): https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/section-8/

Reality check: Waitlists can be long or closed. Apply to multiple housing authorities (including nearby smaller cities) and check for brief openings.

Affordable Apartments (No Voucher Needed)

• What it is: Apartments built with the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) with reduced rents; many buildings serve 55+ or 62+.
• Where to search: TDHCA Housing Resource Center: https://hrc-ic.tdhca.state.tx.us/housing_resource_center/
• Tip: When you call, ask about “senior set‑asides,” current “income limits,” and wait times.

Homelessness Prevention and Shelter

• Where to start: Call 2‑1‑1 for your local Continuum of Care. Also use HUD’s Find Shelter tool: https://www.hud.gov/findshelter
• Veterans: National Call Center for Homeless Veterans (24/7): 877‑424‑3838 and local VA resources: https://www.va.gov/homeless/

Housing Programs Snapshot

Home Repairs, Accessibility, and Weatherization

USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504)

• What it does: Grants up to $10,000forverylow-incomehomeownersage62+toremovehealth/safetyhazards;loansupto$40,000 may be available at low interest (combined assistance may reach $50,000 per federal rules).
• Key rules: Home must be your primary residence; grant must be repaid if the home is sold within three years.
• Apply: USDA Texas Section 504 page and local offices: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

• What it does: No-cost energy upgrades (insulation, air sealing, HVAC tune-ups) to lower your bill.
• Who qualifies: Income-based; seniors and people with disabilities often receive priority.
• Apply: Find your local WAP provider via TDHCA: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/

Habitat for Humanity & Rebuilding Together (Local Repair Help)

• Habitat for Humanity affiliates sometimes offer critical home repairs or accessibility modifications for seniors. Find your nearest Texas affiliate: https://habitattexas.org/find-your-local-affiliate/
• Rebuilding Together provides safety and accessibility repairs through local chapters. Start here: https://rebuildingtogether.org/apply

City and County Programs (Irving/Dallas County)

• Many cities use HUD funds (CDBG/HOME) for senior home repairs. Check the City of Irving website for “Housing and Community Development” and “Home Repair” programs: https://www.cityofirving.org/
• If city funds are closed, call 2‑1‑1 to locate nonprofits and churches offering stopgap fixes (ramps, grab bars, minor repairs).

Home Repair & Weatherization at a Glance

Reality check: Funds are limited and often first‑come, first‑served. Apply early each year and ask to be notified when waitlists reopen.

Healthcare and Long‑Term Care

Free, Unbiased Medicare Counseling (SHIP/HICAP)

• Get one‑on‑one help comparing Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D, plus billing appeals and fraud.
• Where to get help: Texas HHSC Medicare info: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicare and Texas Legal Services Center HICAP: https://www.tlsc.org/hicap
• Local contact: Dallas Area Agency on Aging: https://www.ccadvance.org/older-adults/area-agency-on-aging/ • 214‑871‑5065

Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities (MEPD) and STAR+PLUS

• What it is: Medicaid coverage for low‑income seniors; may include long‑term services at home or in nursing facilities. STAR+PLUS provides managed care and Home‑ and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) for those who meet nursing home level of care but choose to live at home.
• Apply: Medicaid via Your Texas Benefits (MEPD): https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/medicaid-chip-programs-services/programs-children-adults-disabilities/medicaid-elderly-people-disabilities
• Reality check: Financial and functional eligibility both matter for HCBS; expect assessments and possible waitlists. If moving from a facility back home, ask about Money Follows the Person: https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/ltss/money-follows-person/index.html

PACE (Program of All‑Inclusive Care for the Elderly)

• What it is: All‑in‑one care (Medicare/Medicaid) with medical, adult day health, personal care, and transportation, for people who meet nursing home level of care but can live safely in the community.
• Check availability: Medicare’s PACE finder: https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/program-of-all-inclusive-care-for-the-elderly-pace
• Reality check: Service areas are limited in Texas. Transportation is included if you are enrolled.

Help with Medicare Costs

• Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI): Can pay your Part A/B premiums and cost-sharing if your income/resources fit current limits. Learn and apply via HHSC Medicare page: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicare
• Extra Help (Part D Low-Income Subsidy): Lowers prescription drug premiums, deductibles, and copays. Apply through Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/
• Compare plans and drug costs yearly during open enrollment: https://www.medicare.gov/

Dental, Vision, and Hearing

• Donated Dental Services (DDS) – Texas: Volunteer dentists provide comprehensive care for eligible seniors with disabilities or medical fragility. Learn more and apply: https://dentallifeline.org/texas/
• Community Health Centers (FQHCs): Sliding‑fee dental, vision, and primary care. Find clinics near Irving using HRSA’s locator: https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/
• Low‑cost dental school clinic (Dallas): Texas A&M College of Dentistry student clinics offer reduced‑fee care: https://dentistry.tamu.edu/patient-care/
• Vision/Hearing: For Texans 55+ with significant visual impairment, the Older Individuals Who Are Blind program offers training and support: https://www.twc.texas.gov/services/vocational-rehabilitation-services/older-individuals-who-are-blind-program

Local Hospital Financial Assistance

• Parkland Health (Dallas County) provides financial assistance/charity care for eligible patients. Program details and how to apply: https://www.parklandhealth.org/financial-assistance

Healthcare Cost Helpers (Summary)

Transportation

DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) – Serving Irving

• Seniors 65+ qualify for reduced fares. Learn how to get a Reduced Fare ID: https://www.dart.org/
• ADA Paratransit: Door‑to‑door service for riders with disabilities who can’t use regular buses or trains. See eligibility and how to apply: https://www.dart.org/
• GoLink on‑demand service operates in select zones (availability changes). Check current Irving/Las Colinas coverage on DART’s site.

Tip: Carry your Medicare card or DART Reduced Fare ID when using reduced fares.

Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

• What it does: Free rides to doctor, dentist, dialysis, hospital (non‑emergency), and pharmacy for Medicaid members.
• How it works: Trips may be taxis, rideshares, transit, or gas reimbursement. Book at least two business days ahead (longer for out‑of‑area).
• Learn more: Texas HHSC Medical Transportation Program: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/medicaid-chip-members/medical-transportation-program

Utility and Water Bill Help

Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)

• What it does: Helps pay electric and gas bills, deposits, and can help resolve disconnections for eligible households.
• Apply: Overview and provider lookup via TDHCA: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/ceap/

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

• Long-term bill savings through insulation and energy efficiency upgrades.
• Apply via TDHCA WAP page: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/

City of Irving Utilities

• Payment plans, billing questions, and any city customer assistance options (if available) are handled by Utility Billing. Start at the City website: https://www.cityofirving.org/ (search “Utility Billing”).

Tip: If someone in your home relies on electric‑powered medical equipment, ask your utility about “critical care” or “medical needs” designations and payment arrangements.

Utility Help Options

Reality check: Funds can run out, especially during summer. If told “no funds,” ask when to reapply and what backup options exist (payment plans, charitable funds).

Legal Help, Consumer Protection, and Long‑Term Care Rights

• Legal Aid (Dallas County): Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas provides free civil legal help to eligible clients: https://internet.lanwt.org/
• Adult Protective Services (abuse/neglect/exploitation): 1‑800‑252‑5400 or online: https://www.txabusehotline.org/ (Program info: https://www.dfps.texas.gov/Adult_Protective_Services/)
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman (nursing homes/assisted living): Free help resolving complaints and protecting residents’ rights: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/aging/long-term-care/long-term-care-ombudsman
• Consumer Protection & Scams: Texas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection

Tip: If anyone asks for a fee to “guarantee” benefits, it’s a red flag. Use the official links in this guide.

Inclusive Resources

LGBTQ+ Seniors (Irving/DFW)

• Coalition for Aging LGBT (DFW-based): Housing guidance, social connection, and provider training; LGBT‑Friendly Senior Housing Guide: https://www.cfa.lgbt/
• National support line: SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline: https://www.sageusa.org/ (877‑360‑5428)
• Ask the Dallas Area Agency on Aging for inclusive providers and caregiver support: https://www.ccadvance.org/older-adults/area-agency-on-aging/

Veteran Seniors

• Texas Veterans Commission (claims, employment, local grants): https://www.tvc.texas.gov/
• VA Aid and Attendance/Housebound (increased pension for care needs): https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• VA North Texas Health Care (Dallas): https://www.va.gov/north-texas-health-care/
• Homeless veterans: 877‑424‑3838 and VA resources: https://www.va.gov/homeless/

Seniors with Disabilities

• Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs): One‑stop for long‑term services, equipment, and in‑home supports: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/aging/long-term-care/aging-disability-resource-centers-adrcs
• Centers for Independent Living (CILs): Skills training, peer support, equipment. Find a Texas CIL via ILRU directory: https://www.ilru.org/projects/cil-net/cil-center-and-association-directory
• Transportation: DART Paratransit for ADA‑eligible riders: https://www.dart.org/

Tribal-Specific Resources (Texas)

• Federally recognized tribes in Texas:
  • Alabama‑Coushatta Tribe of Texas: https://www.alabama-coushatta.com/
  • Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas: https://www.ktttribe.org/
  • Ysleta del Sur Pueblo (Tigua): https://www.ysletadelsurpueblo.org/
• Indian Health Service (IHS) and tribal clinics: https://www.ihs.gov/
• HUD Native American housing programs: https://www.hud.gov/codetalk
• Note: Tribal elders should also apply for statewide benefits (SNAP, CEAP, Medicaid) through Your Texas Benefits: https://www.YourTexasBenefits.com/

Rural Seniors (if you live outside Irving)

• Community Action Agencies deliver CEAP, WAP, and other local help—find providers on TDHCA pages (CEAP/WAP above) or call 2‑1‑1.
• Rural transit offers demand‑response rides in every county. Ask your county transit office via 2‑1‑1.
• Use telehealth options through Medicare or your Medicare Advantage plan when travel is difficult.

Resources by Region (Greater Dallas/Irving)

• Dallas Area Agency on Aging (serves Irving): https://www.ccadvance.org/older-adults/area-agency-on-aging/ • 214‑871‑5065
• City of Irving (programs, utility billing, senior center): https://www.cityofirving.org/
• Texas HHSC Aging Services (statewide): https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/aging
• 2‑1‑1 Texas (local referrals): https://www.211texas.org/
• TDHCA (housing, CEAP, WAP, HCV): https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/
• HUD PHA Contacts (Texas): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
• USDA Section 504 (Texas): https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx
• Meals on Wheels Texas directory: https://mealsonwheelstexas.org/
• Parkland Health Financial Assistance: https://www.parklandhealth.org/financial-assistance
• Dallas Central Appraisal District (over‑65 exemption): https://www.dcad.org/
• Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas: https://internet.lanwt.org/
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman (Texas): https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/aging/long-term-care/long-term-care-ombudsman
• Texas Attorney General Consumer Protection: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection
• Lifeline (phone/internet discount): https://www.lifelinesupport.org/

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I get on a Section 8 waitlist in Irving?
A: Most vouchers are handled by local housing authorities. Use HUD’s Texas PHA directory to locate and apply to the Irving/Dallas area list(s): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts. Lists can open briefly; check monthly and sign up for alerts if available. Also look for LIHTC senior apartments as a backup: https://hrc-ic.tdhca.state.tx.us/housing_resource_center/.

Q: Does the City of Irving offer home repair help for seniors?
A: Many cities offer CDBG/HOME‑funded repairs, but funding windows open and close. Start at the City of Irving website (search “Home Repair”): https://www.cityofirving.org/. If closed, try USDA Section 504 grants/loans: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx and Weatherization: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/.

Q: I’m slightly over income for SNAP. Is it still worth applying?
A: Yes. Seniors 60+ can deduct many medical expenses, which may change eligibility and benefit amounts. Apply via HHSC: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/food/snap-food-benefits or Your Texas Benefits: https://www.YourTexasBenefits.com/.

Q: How can I lower my Medicare costs?
A: Apply for Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) to help with premiums and cost-sharing: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicare. Also apply for Extra Help for prescription drugs: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/. Get free counseling from the Dallas Area Agency on Aging: https://www.ccadvance.org/older-adults/area-agency-on-aging/.

Q: Is there general cash assistance for seniors in Texas?
A: Texas does not have a statewide general cash program just for seniors. But SNAP, CEAP (utilities), property tax exemptions/deferrals, Medicare Savings, and Extra Help can free up money. If you’re raising a grandchild, TANF may help: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/financial/cash.

Q: I need in‑home help but don’t want a nursing home. What are my options?
A: Ask HHSC about STAR+PLUS HCBS (if you meet medical and financial rules): https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/medicaid-chip-programs-services/programs-children-adults-disabilities/medicaid-elderly-people-disabilities. Check whether PACE is available to you: https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/program-of-all-inclusive-care-for-the-elderly-pace. Your AAA can also connect you to caregiver support and respite.

Q: Who helps in nursing home or assisted living disputes?
A: Contact the Texas Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/aging/long-term-care/long-term-care-ombudsman.

Q: Where can I get unbiased help reviewing my Medicare Advantage plan for 2026?
A: Call the Dallas Area Agency on Aging for SHIP/HICAP counseling: https://www.ccadvance.org/older-adults/area-agency-on-aging/ or use Texas HICAP: https://www.tlsc.org/hicap.

Q: How do I protect myself from scams related to benefits?
A: Learn common scams and file complaints with the Texas Attorney General: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection. Be cautious of anyone charging a fee to “guarantee” a grant or benefit.

Q: I don’t drive. How can I get rides in Irving?
A: Seniors 65+ can use DART with reduced fares: https://www.dart.org/. If you have a disability and can’t use standard transit, apply for DART Paratransit. If you’re on Medicaid, book free medical rides through HHSC NEMT: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/medicaid-chip-members/medical-transportation-program.

Tips to Apply (and Documents to Gather)

• Photo ID and Social Security number
• Proof of Texas address (lease, utility bill)
• Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs) and bank statements
• Medical expenses (for SNAP deductions; Medicare/Medicaid programs)
• Rent/mortgage statement and utility bills
• VA documents (if applicable)

Application hubs:

• Your Texas Benefits (SNAP/TSAP, Medicaid, Medicare Savings): https://www.YourTexasBenefits.com/
• Medicare plans and Extra Help: https://www.medicare.gov/ and https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/
• Housing vouchers/units: local PHAs and TDHCA tools (links above)
• Repairs/weatherization: TDHCA and USDA program pages (links above)

Pro tips:

• Save confirmation numbers and take screenshots.
• Ask for “reasonable accommodations” if you need help due to disability (extra time, help completing forms).
• If denied, request the reason in writing and ask how to appeal or reapply with missing documents.

Common Reality Checks (And Workarounds)

• Housing vouchers: Waitlists can be years long. Apply to multiple PHAs, set monthly reminders to check openings, and consider LIHTC senior apartments as a parallel track.
• Home repair grants: Funding windows open/close and may prioritize urgent hazards. Get on interest lists, reapply each cycle, and ask nonprofits for short‑term fixes.
• Medicaid HCBS: Eligibility is strict. If you’re turned down, ask your AAA about caregiver support, respite, and local in‑home services. If you’re in a facility and want to return home, ask about Money Follows the Person.
• Utilities: CEAP funds may run out late summer. Request payment plans, budget billing, and ask about medical critical care flags with your utility.
• Paperwork: Small mistakes cause delays. Double‑check signatures, dates, and income totals.

Disclaimer

Program details, funding, and eligibility rules can change. Always verify information with the official agency or program linked in this guide. This guide is for general information only and is not legal, financial, or medical advice.

About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

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

Our Commitment to You:

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

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information,