Grants for Seniors in Los Angeles

Grants and Assistance for Seniors in Los Angeles, California (2026 Guide)

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated:

If You Need Emergency Help

When safety or basic needs are at risk, use these contacts right away.

  • Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.
  • Adult Protective Services (elder abuse, neglect, exploitation): 24/7 statewide hotline at (833) 401-0832
  • 211 LA (food, shelter, utility help, local referrals): Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211 LA search
  • Mental health crisis: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988)
  • Homeless services and outreach: Contact LAHSA (Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority) or call 2-1-1
  • Eviction advice and free legal help: Stay Housed LA
  • Disaster and extreme heat info (cooling centers): LA County Ready – Heat Safety

Quick emergency directory:

Need Who to contact How
Abuse or self-neglect Adult Protective Services (833) 401-0832 (24/7)
Food today 211 LA Dial 2-1-1; 211 LA food finder
Shelter/homeless outreach LAHSA LAHSA or 2-1-1
Eviction/tenant help Stay Housed LA Get help
Heat/cooling centers LA County Ready Find cooling centers
Crisis counseling 988 Lifeline Call or text 988

Key Takeaways

  • Los Angeles County has strong programs for seniors, but housing costs and waiting lists are major barriers. Persistence and follow-up are essential.
  • Start with these three: In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) for home care, Medi-Cal for health coverage, and CalFresh for food benefits.
  • Most applications run through LA County DPSS or statewide portals like BenefitsCal. You can apply by phone, online, or at local offices.
  • Tenant protections, utility discounts, and meal programs can help stretch fixed incomes while waiting for housing assistance.
  • Beware of scams. Government programs never charge application fees or ask for gift cards or wire transfers.

How to Use This Guide

This is a practical, phone-number-and-link-heavy guide for seniors in the City of Los Angeles and the broader LA County. We cover in-home care, healthcare, food, housing, utilities, transportation, dental, legal help, and special resources for veterans, LGBTQ+ seniors, disabled seniors, Native American/tribal community members, and rural/remote areas like Antelope Valley. We focus on official programs, realistic wait times, and how to apply.

Quick Reference: Major Programs in Los Angeles County

Use this table to jump to the right office or application page.

Program What it provides Where to apply Phone
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Paid in-home care to help you stay safely at home IHSS – LA County DPSS (877) 481-1044 (IHSS)
Medi-Cal Comprehensive low-cost/no-cost health coverage Apply for Medi-Cal – DHCS or BenefitsCal DPSS: (866) 613-3777
CalFresh (SNAP) Monthly food benefits on EBT card CalFresh – LA County DPSS or GetCalFresh (LA County) DPSS: (866) 613-3777
HICAP (Medicare counseling) Free, unbiased Medicare help Center for Health Care Rights (HICAP LA) (800) 824-0780
Section 8 (HCV) – City Rent voucher (pay ~30% income) Housing Authority of the City of LA (HACLA) (213) 252-2500
Section 8 (HCV) – County Rent voucher (pay ~30% income) LA County Development Authority (LACDA) (626) 262-4510
Utility discounts CARE/FERA, senior lifeline, bill help SCE CARE, SoCalGas CARE, LADWP: (800) 342-5397 See links
211 LA Local directory and help applying 211 LA Dial 2-1-1
LA County Aging & Disabilities Senior centers, meals, caregiver help LA County Aging & Disabilities Dept. (800) 510-2020

Reality check: Section 8 waiting lists in LA are often closed and wait times can run many years. Keep contact info current and apply to multiple lists when they open.

Who This Guide Helps

  • Los Angeles County residents age 60+ (City and County)
  • Seniors living on Social Security, SSI/SSP, small pensions, or part-time wages
  • Seniors with disabilities who need help with daily tasks
  • Caregivers (spouses, adult children, friends) supporting older adults
  • Seniors facing high rent, medical costs, food insecurity, or isolation

Eligibility Snapshot: Where to Find Current Income/Asset Rules

Rules change often. Always confirm the current limits on official pages.

Program Where to check current limits Notes
Medi-Cal (seniors & people with disabilities) DHCS Medi-Cal Eligibility California eliminated Medi-Cal asset tests for most groups in 2024 (confirm for your eligibility category) — see DHCS Asset Test Elimination.
CalFresh (SNAP) CDSS CalFresh or DPSS CalFresh Households with an older or disabled member often use the net income test; medical and shelter deductions can help.
SSI/SSP SSA – SSI and CDSS – Cash Assistance California adds a state supplement (SSP). Amounts depend on living arrangement.
IHSS DPSS IHSS LA Financial eligibility flows through Medi-Cal. Medical need is required (help with daily activities).
Utility discounts (CARE/FERA) SCE CARE, SoCalGas CARE, LADWP: (800) 342-5397 CARE = larger discount; FERA = partial discount for slightly higher incomes.

Tip: Apply even if you’re not sure. Many seniors qualify after deductions for rent or medical costs.

Where to Start (Step-by-Step)

  1. Call your Area Agency on Aging
  • LA County Aging & Disabilities: (800) 510-2020; online: ad.lacounty.gov
    They can connect you to meal programs, transportation, caregiver support, and help with applications.
  1. Apply for healthcare and food
  1. If you need help at home, apply for IHSS
  • Start at DPSS IHSS and prepare a doctor’s letter describing which daily activities you need help with.
  1. Check your utilities
  • Ask your provider to add CARE/FERA or senior discounts (see utility section). Discounts can begin within one or two billing cycles.
  1. Housing is long-term
  • Sign up for alerts from HACLA and LACDA so you can apply immediately if/when lists open.

In-Home Care & Long-Term Services

IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services) in Los Angeles County

IHSS pays a caregiver (you can hire a family member or friend) to help with bathing, dressing, cooking, cleaning, shopping, and getting to appointments, so you can remain safely at home.

  • Learn and apply: IHSS – LA County DPSS
  • Phone (IHSS): (877) 481-1044
  • Financial eligibility: Through Medi-Cal; California has eliminated asset tests for most Medi-Cal categories — confirm your situation at DHCS Asset Test Elimination.
  • Medical need: You must need help with activities of daily living. A social worker will do a home assessment.
  • Reality check: Approvals can take several weeks. Document specific tasks you cannot do safely, and get a detailed note from your doctor.

Tips that help:

  • Keep a daily log of tasks you struggle with (e.g., “Can’t stand long enough to cook. Fell in shower last month.”).
  • Have medication lists and recent clinic notes ready for the assessment.
  • If denied, you can appeal. Ask for help from the Center for Health Care Rights (HICAP/advocacy) or legal aid (see below).

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

PACE is a complete care program for frail seniors who qualify for nursing-home level care but want to live at home. It includes doctors, medications, day center activities, transportation, home care, and more, usually at no cost if you have Medi-Cal.

Reality check: PACE centers serve specific neighborhoods. Transportation is included, but you must live in the service area and meet medical criteria.

MSSP (Multipurpose Senior Services Program)

For high-need seniors on Medi-Cal, MSSP offers intensive case management, safety equipment, and supports to help you avoid nursing home placement.

Healthcare Programs

Medi-Cal (for Seniors and People with Disabilities)

Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program. It pays for doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health care, medical equipment, nursing home care, and more. It also covers dental care for adults.

Extras that matter:

  • Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT/NMT) can get you to appointments if you cannot drive: DHCS – NEMT
  • Many managed care plans offer case managers and care coordinators for seniors with multiple conditions.
  • Telehealth is widely available through Medi-Cal managed care plans.

Medicare + Medi-Cal (Dual Eligible) and Medicare Savings Programs

If you have Medicare and low income, Medi-Cal may pay your Medicare premiums and cost sharing through Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI).

Prescription Savings

  • California’s CalRx initiative negotiates lower prices on essential drugs (including affordable insulin options): CalRx – State of California
  • Always compare your Part D copay with CalRx or pharmacy discount programs before paying.

Financial Assistance

SSI/SSP (Supplemental Security Income + State Supplement)

SSI is federal cash aid for low-income seniors and people with disabilities. California adds a State Supplement (SSP).

SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program)

Part-time, minimum-wage job training (usually 20 hours/week) for adults 55+ with low income. You train at local nonprofits and government offices while learning new skills.

Reality check: SCSEP is a training bridge. The goal is to move into unsubsidized work within about two years.

Caregiver Supports

Family caregivers can get respite, support groups, and skill training.

Housing Assistance (City of LA and LA County)

Housing is the hardest need in Los Angeles. Waiting lists are often closed, and it can take years to receive a voucher. Apply widely, keep your contact info updated, and look for senior buildings and other relief while you wait.

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV)

Reality check: Waiting lists may be closed for long periods, or open only for brief lottery windows. Sign up for email alerts, check websites monthly, and apply immediately when lists open.

Affordable Senior Housing (HUD Section 202 & other senior buildings)

Section 202 buildings charge about 30% of your income in rent and are designed for seniors.

  • Search HUD subsidized apartments: HUD Resource Locator
  • Ask your AAA for a list of senior buildings: (800) 510-2020
  • Contact properties directly to join waitlists.

Eviction Defense and Tenant Protections

Home Repairs (Homeowners)

Housing contacts at a glance:

Program Agency Where to check/apply Phone
Section 8 (City) HACLA HACLA – Section 8 (213) 252-2500
Section 8 (County) LACDA LACDA – Section 8 (626) 262-4510
Senior buildings (202) HUD/Private Nonprofits HUD Resource Locator Varies
Tenant protections City/County LA Housing Dept. • LA County DCBA Varies
Home repair (unincorp.) LACDA Home Improvement Program (626) 586-1852

Food Assistance

CalFresh (SNAP)

Monthly food benefits loaded to an EBT card. In LA, many seniors qualify, and elderly households have special deductions for medical costs and no work requirements.

  • Apply: GetCalFresh – LA County or DPSS CalFresh
  • Phone (DPSS): (866) 613-3777
  • Restaurant Meals Program (hot meals at participating restaurants) is available in LA County. Ask DPSS or check your EBT app for participating locations.

Home-Delivered and Congregate Meals

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) – Monthly Food Boxes for Seniors

Reality check: CalFresh usually posts benefits within 30 days after approval. Meal programs can have wait lists; call early and ask about frozen or emergency meal options.

Utility and Communications Discounts

Don’t leave money on the table. These discounts can cut bills 20–35% or more.

Utility/Service Program How to apply Phone
Electricity (SCE areas of LA County) CARE/FERA SCE CARE (800) 655-4555
Natural Gas (SoCalGas) CARE/FERA SoCalGas CARE (800) 427-2200
LA City Water & Power (LADWP) Senior Lifeline & other bill help Call to ask for “Senior Citizen/Disability Lifeline Rate” and low-income programs (800) 342-5397
Statewide energy bill help LIHEAP Apply via local providers; start at state site (916) 576-7109; CSD – Energy Help
Phone & internet California LifeLine California LifeLine (877) 858-7463

Tips:

  • Ask your utility about medical baseline programs if you use life-sustaining equipment.
  • During extreme heat, LA County opens cooling centers and may expand bill help. Check LA County Ready – Heat.

Dental Care

Reality check: Many private dentists do not accept Medi-Cal; dental school clinics and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are good options if you have trouble finding a provider.

Transportation

Reality check: Paratransit requires an eligibility process and advance reservations. Medi-Cal rides require approval by your health plan; schedule at least 48 hours ahead.

Veteran Seniors

Tip: Aid & Attendance can help pay for in-home care or assisted living if you need help with daily activities. Get free claims help from LA County Veterans Services Officers.

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Reality check: Many LGBTQ+ seniors lack traditional family supports. Ask about friendly visitor programs and group activities to reduce isolation while you wait for other services.

Disabled Seniors

Native/Tribal-Specific Resources (Greater LA Area)

  • United American Indian Involvement (UAII) – Elders programs, health, and social services: UAII Elders
  • California Indian Manpower Consortium (CIMC) – Employment/training and community services: CIMC
  • Indian Health Service clinic connections: Ask UAII or check IHS Find Health Care

Rural/Remote LA County (Antelope Valley, mountain/foothill communities)

Challenges: Long travel for care, limited transit, fewer providers.

Practical steps:

Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips

  • Housing waits are long. While waiting, apply for CalFresh, utility discounts, and meal programs to stretch your budget.
  • Keep copies of every application and letter. Note the date, the person you spoke with, and confirmation numbers.
  • Reapply if your situation changes. A new medical event or drop in income can improve eligibility.
  • Scams: Government programs do not charge application fees or ask for gift cards or wire transfers. Verify by calling the official number listed on the agency’s website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does IHSS take in Los Angeles County?
A: Expect several weeks from application to in-home assessment and approval. Delays can happen if documents are missing. Speed things up by submitting a detailed doctor’s letter and answering calls from DPSS promptly. Start here: DPSS IHSS.

Q: Can I get both Medicare and Medi-Cal?
A: Yes. If you qualify for Medi-Cal with Medicare, Medi-Cal can pay your premiums and most copays and cover services Medicare doesn’t, like nursing-home care and comprehensive dental. Get personalized advice from HICAP: Center for Health Care Rights or (800) 434-0222 statewide.

Q: I need food now. What’s fastest?
A: Call 2-1-1 to find today’s food distributions and meal sites. Apply for CalFresh online in about 10 minutes at GetCalFresh – LA. If approved, benefits usually start the same month.

Q: Section 8 lists are closed. What can I do?
A: Sign up for alerts at HACLA and LACDA, apply to senior buildings directly (use the HUD Resource Locator), and talk to your AAA about other options. Keep your phone and email updated so you don’t miss a lottery window.

Q: I can’t get to my doctor. Will my plan give me a ride?
A: Medi-Cal plans can arrange rides to covered medical appointments if you have no other transport. Ask your plan about Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) or Non-Medical Transportation (NMT): DHCS – NEMT.

Q: Do I have to spend my savings to get Medi-Cal?
A: California eliminated the asset test for most Medi-Cal programs in 2024. Income rules still apply. Check your specific eligibility at DHCS – Medi-Cal and DHCS – Asset Test Elimination.

Q: Who can help me choose a Medicare plan?
A: HICAP offers free, unbiased counseling. In LA County, contact the Center for Health Care Rights at (800) 824-0780.

Q: I’m a veteran. Where do I start?
A: Contact the LA County Department of Military & Veterans Affairs for benefit screening and claims help, and get care at the VA Greater Los Angeles system.

Q: How can I lower my utility bills?
A: Ask to enroll in CARE (bigger discount) or FERA (smaller discount) through your electric and gas company. LADWP customers can request the Senior Lifeline Rate. See utility links above.

Q: I’ve been scammed. What should I do?
A: Contact your bank or card issuer immediately, file a report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, and call Adult Protective Services at (833) 401-0832 if you’re an elder abuse victim. For Medicare fraud, call (800) 633-4227 or your local HICAP.

Tables: Program Roadmaps You Can Print

  1. Fast Start Checklist (apply in this order if you need multiple programs)
Step Program Why first Where
1 Medi-Cal Opens access to doctors, meds, rides BenefitsCal
2 IHSS In-home care takes time to approve DPSS IHSS
3 CalFresh Faster approval; frees cash for rent/meds GetCalFresh – LA
4 Utility discounts Reduces bills every month SCE/SoCalGas/LADWP links above
5 Housing Lists open rarely; apply ASAP when they do HACLA, LACDA
  1. Who to Call (LA County)
Topic Best first call Backup
General senior help AAA (800) 510-2020 211 LA (2-1-1)
Medi-Cal or CalFresh DPSS (866) 613-3777 BenefitsCal online
Medicare advice HICAP (800) 824-0780 State HICAP (800) 434-0222
IHSS IHSS line (877) 481-1044 DPSS (866) 613-3777
Evictions Stay Housed LA LA Housing Dept.
Utility discounts Your utility customer service LIHEAP: (916) 576-7109
  1. Transportation Options
Need Program How to use
Discounted fares LA Metro Senior Apply for TAP Senior card and load reduced fares: TAP Senior
Door-to-door rides (disability) Access Services Apply for ADA paratransit eligibility: Access Services
City subsidy LADOT Cityride Discounted Cityride tickets for seniors/disabled: Cityride
Medical rides Medi-Cal NEMT/NMT Call your plan 48+ hours in advance: DHCS – NEMT
  1. Dental Care Options
Option What you get How to start
Medi-Cal Dental Cleanings, fillings, dentures, emergencies Medi-Cal Dental – Find a Dentist
UCLA/USC clinics Lower-cost care from supervised students UCLA Patients, USC Patient Care
Free/one-off clinics CDA Cares events CDA Cares
  1. Protect Yourself From Scams
Red flag What to do
“Pay a fee to apply for benefits.” Hang up. Government programs are free.
“We need your SSN now or benefits end.” Verify by calling the number on the official website/bill.
Door-to-door “contractors” after disasters Check licenses: CA Contractors Board

Disclaimer

Program rules, phone numbers, and links can change. Always confirm details with the official agency or your local Area Agency on Aging. This guide is for information only and is not legal or financial advice.

About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

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

Our Commitment to You:

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

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, 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: January 2026
  • Sources Verified: January 20265
  • Next Review: April 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.

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About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.