Missouri Senior Assistance Programs, Benefits, and Grants (2025)

Senior Benefits and Assistance Programs in Missouri

Last updated: August 2025

If You Need Emergency Help

Use these resources right away if you’re in a crisis or need urgent help with safety, food, housing, or health.

• United Way 2-1-1 Missouri: https://www.211helps.org
• HUD Homeless Assistance Locator: https://www.hudexchange.info/homelessness-assistance/
• Missouri LIHEAP: https://mydss.mo.gov/energy-assistance
• MO HealthNet NEMT: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm

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Key Takeaways

• Missouri seniors have strong support through MO HealthNet (Medicaid), Medicare counseling, energy help (LIHEAP), meal programs, home care, and housing resources—but expect waitlists for some programs.
• Start with your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for help applying and coordinating services: Find your AAA at Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/aaa/
• For prescriptions, check the Missouri Rx Plan (MoRx) and Medicare Extra Help; for dental, look at MO HealthNet adult dental, Dental Lifeline Network, and UMKC School of Dentistry.
• Property tax relief: Missouri’s Property Tax Credit (“circuit breaker”) can refund part of real estate tax or rent paid; some counties may offer senior tax freezes—check with your county assessor.
• Transportation options vary by county. OATS Transit and MO Rides are good starting points to find rides, plus Medicaid non-emergency medical transportation if you’re on MO HealthNet.

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A note on Missouri seniors and basic eligibility

• The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that older adults are a significant share of Missouri’s population (ACS 2023). See U.S. Census Bureau ACS, Table S0101 for Missouri: https://data.census.gov/table?q=S0101:+Missouri
• Many benefits look at age (usually 60+ or 65+), Missouri residency, income and assets, disability, and in some cases veteran status.

Tip: Don’t assume you earn “too much.” Rules change, and programs like the Property Tax Credit and Medicare Extra Help have higher income limits than many expect. If in doubt, ask your AAA or call 2‑1‑1.

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How to use this guide

• This guide focuses on practical steps, official links, and realistic timelines.
• Every program listed includes a direct, descriptive link to its official page.
• Application help: Contact your local AAA (https://health.mo.gov/seniors/aaa/), or use Missouri’s myDSS portal for state-administered benefits (https://mydss.mo.gov/).

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Quick Program Overview

Use this table to spot common help areas and where to start.

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Money, Bills, and Taxes

Missouri Property Tax Credit (“Circuit Breaker”)

• What it is: A state income tax credit for eligible seniors and certain disabled Missourians. It may refund part of the real estate taxes or rent paid on your primary home.
• Who qualifies: You must meet age, disability, income, and residency rules; renters may qualify as well.
• How to apply: File Form MO‑PTC with your Missouri tax return, or file it alone if you don’t otherwise need to file taxes.
  Learn more and get forms at Missouri Department of Revenue: https://dor.mo.gov/personal/ptc/

Reality check: Many eligible seniors don’t claim this credit. If you pay rent or property tax, ask a tax preparer or your AAA to help you apply.

Note on local senior tax “freeze”: Some Missouri counties have considered or adopted senior property tax freezes under state law. Availability and rules vary by county and may change. Check with your county assessor or collector for current status.

Utility Bills: Heating, Cooling, and Weatherization

• LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program):
  Apply through Missouri DSS for one-time help and for emergency Energy Crisis Intervention (ECIP).
  Missouri LIHEAP: https://mydss.mo.gov/energy-assistance (855-373-4636)
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP):
  Free home energy improvements (insulation, sealing, furnace/AC tune-ups where applicable) delivered by local community action agencies.
  Missouri Department of Natural Resources – Weatherization: https://dnr.mo.gov/energy/weatherization-assistance-program
• Utility company programs (examples):
  • Ameren Missouri energy assistance and payment programs: https://www.ameren.com/missouri/account/energy-assistance
  • Spire (natural gas) assistance: https://www.spireenergy.com/assistance
    Check your provider’s website or call customer service to ask about senior discounts, budget billing, or arrearage forgiveness programs.

Tip: Apply for LIHEAP early in the season; funds can run out. Keep proof of income, recent utility bills, and ID handy.

SNAP (Food Stamps) and Cash-Like Help for Groceries

• SNAP for seniors: Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy food. Some seniors qualify for the Standard Medical Deduction to increase benefits by counting out-of-pocket medical costs.
  Apply at Missouri DSS: https://mydss.mo.gov/food-assistance
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP):
  Monthly food box for eligible older adults.
  Missouri DHSS CSFP: https://health.mo.gov/living/wellness/nutrition/foodprograms/csfp/ (573-751-6269)
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP):
  Seasonal vouchers to buy fresh produce from authorized farmers (subject to funding).
  Check Missouri DHSS program page: https://health.mo.gov/living/wellness/nutrition/foodprograms/seniorfarmersmarket/

Employment and Income Boosters

• SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program):
  Paid part-time community service jobs with training for adults 55+. Limited slots; waitlists are common.
  Missouri Senior Employment info: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/senioremployment/ (573-526-4542)
• Social Security help:
  For retirement, disability, survivor benefits, and Medicare enrollment questions, contact Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/ or call 800-772-1213.

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Health Care and Long-Term Services

Medicare help (free counseling)

• Missouri SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program): unbiased help comparing Medicare plans, drug coverage, Advantage vs. Medigap, and billing issues.
  Missouri SHIP: https://missouriship.org (800-390-3330)

MO HealthNet (Missouri Medicaid) for Older Adults

MO HealthNet is Missouri’s Medicaid program.

• Apply online: https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare
• General information: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/
• Benefits (overview, including adult dental): https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/benefit-information.htm

Common pathways for seniors:

• MO HealthNet for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (MHABD): Income and asset limits apply.
• Spend Down/Medically Needy: If income is too high, some can qualify by meeting a monthly spend down.
• Home and Community Based (HCBS) services and Waivers: In-home help with bathing, meals, housekeeping, respite, personal care; can be agency-delivered or through Consumer-Directed Services (CDS).
  Learn more via Missouri DHSS, Division of Senior & Disability Services: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/hcbs/

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT):
If you have MO HealthNet, rides to Medicaid-covered appointments are available.
How to schedule: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm (866-269-5927)

Adult Day Care (Adult Day Services):
Daytime care, supervision, and health services; often covered by MO HealthNet for eligible participants.
Program info: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/nursinghomes/adultdaycare.php (573-526-8524)

Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE):
PACE combines Medicare and Medicaid services for eligible adults who need a nursing-home level of care but can live in the community. Availability is limited by location.
Find PACE organizations: https://www.medicare.gov/pace

Alzheimer’s/Dementia Safety:

• Alzheimer’s Association MedicAlert + 24/7 Wandering Support: https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/safety/medicalert-with-24-7-wandering-support (800-272-3900)

Long-Term Care Ombudsman:
Help with concerns about care in nursing homes and assisted living.
Missouri Ombudsman Program: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/ombudsman/

Behavioral Health and Substance Use Services:
Missouri Department of Mental Health – Behavioral Health: https://dmh.mo.gov/behavioral-health
24/7 help: Call or text 988.

Prescriptions and Drug Cost Help

• Missouri Rx Plan (MoRx):
  Helps pay for prescription drugs by working with your Medicare Part D plan.
  Learn more and apply: https://dss.mo.gov/morx/
• Medicare Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy):
  Lowers Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays.
  Apply with Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/
• Rx Outreach (nonprofit mail-order pharmacy based in Missouri):
  Low-cost medications for eligible patients nationwide.
  Check drugs and pricing: https://rxoutreach.org/

Tip: Ask your SHIP counselor to check if your current Part D plan still fits your medicines before each Open Enrollment.

Dental, Vision, and Hearing

• Adult dental under MO HealthNet:
  Medicaid covers adult dental in Missouri; services vary.
  Benefit info: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/benefit-information.htm
• Dental Lifeline Network – Missouri (Donated Dental Services):
  Free comprehensive dental care for eligible seniors with disabilities or medical fragility and no means to pay.
  How to apply: https://dentallifeline.org/missouri/
• UMKC School of Dentistry Clinics (Kansas City):
  Reduced-fee care provided by supervised students and residents.
  Appointments: https://dentistry.umkc.edu/patients/
• Missouri Mission of Mercy (MOMOM):
  Large free dental events held periodically. Check for next event dates.
  Info: https://www.modental.org/mission-of-mercy
• EyeCare America (American Academy of Ophthalmology):
  Free eye exams for eligible adults 65+ (treatment not always covered).
  Learn more: https://www.aao.org/eyecare-america
• Hearing aid resources:
  Check Missouri Assistive Technology’s device loan programs and telecommunications assistance.
  MoAT: https://at.mo.gov/
  FCC Lifeline (phone/internet discount): https://www.lifelinesupport.org/

Reality check: Appointments at dental schools and Donated Dental Services can involve long waits. Apply early and follow up.

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Food and Nutrition

Tip: If mobility is a challenge, ask your AAA about home-delivered meals and grocery delivery options through volunteers.

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Housing, Rent, and Home Repairs

Finding Affordable Housing

• HUD resources for Missouri (renting, Section 8 info, public housing authorities):
  https://www.hud.gov/states/missouri/renting
• Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC):
  Search for affordable housing and learn about state programs (funding and availability vary).
  https://mhdc.com/

Reality check: Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) waitlists open and close and can be years long in metro areas. Apply to multiple housing authorities if possible, and check regularly for waitlist openings.

Supportive Housing (Seniors and Persons with Disabilities)

• HUD Section 202 (Supportive Housing for the Elderly) and Section 811 (for Persons with Disabilities):
  Learn about the programs and use the HUD Resource Locator to find properties.
  Program overview: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/mfh/grants/section202ptl
  HUD Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov/

Emergency Rent and Homelessness Prevention

• Check with your local Continuum of Care via the HUD Homeless Assistance Locator for rental help, prevention, or shelter:
  https://www.hudexchange.info/homelessness-assistance/
• Department of Mental Health – Housing (for individuals with serious mental illness or developmental disabilities):
  https://dmh.mo.gov/housing

Home Repairs and Safety

Tip: For accessibility changes (ramps, grab bars), also ask Missouri Assistive Technology about device loans and home adaptation resources: https://at.mo.gov/

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Transportation

• OATS Transit (serves 87 counties, shared rides; some AAA-funded routes):
  https://www.oatstransit.org/
• MO Rides (trip planning and provider directory):
  https://morides.org/
• Major metro providers:
  • St. Louis – Metro Transit with reduced fare and ADA paratransit: https://www.metrostlouis.org/
  • Kansas City – RideKC (reduced fare, paratransit): https://ridekc.org/
  • Springfield – City Utilities Transit: https://www.cityutilities.net/transit/
• Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT):
  MO HealthNet members: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm (866-269-5927)

Reality check: Rural trips may need advance scheduling, and same-day rides are rare. Book early and ask about rider eligibility and donation/fare policies.

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Inclusive Support: Focused Resources

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline (24/7): 877-360-LGBT (5428)
  https://www.sageusa.org/what-we-do/sage-national-lgbt-elder-hotline/
• LGBTQ+ Aging resources and provider finder:
  SAGE National Resource Center: https://www.lgbtagingcenter.org/
• Local help: Ask your AAA if they partner with LGBTQ+-affirming providers. Many AAAs offer cultural competency training and can connect you to inclusive services.

Veteran Seniors

• Missouri Veterans Commission (state benefits, veterans homes, assistance):
  https://mvc.dps.mo.gov/
• VA benefits (Aid & Attendance, Housebound, health care, pensions):
  VA Pension with Aid & Attendance/Housebound: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-and-attendance-housebound/
  Find VA health care: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
• Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) for housing stability:
  https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/

Tip: Bring a copy of your DD‑214 when applying. County Veterans Service Officers can help with claims—ask MVC to locate one near you.

Disabled Seniors

• MO HealthNet for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (MHABD):
  https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare
• Consumer-Directed Services (CDS) and in-home care via HCBS:
  https://health.mo.gov/seniors/hcbs/
• Missouri Assistive Technology:
  Device loans, telecommunications programs, and home adaptation info: https://at.mo.gov/
• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and SSI:
  https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/

Native/Tribal Elders

While Missouri has few tribal service hubs, enrolled members of federally recognized tribes may access:

• Title VI Older Americans Act programs (meals, transportation, caregiver support) through their tribe:
  Program finder: https://olderindians.acl.gov/
• Indian Health Service (IHS) and Purchased/Referred Care (PRC) in nearby service areas:
  IHS facility locator: https://www.ihs.gov/findhealthcare/

Ask your AAA about local partnerships with tribal and urban Indian organizations.

Rural Seniors and Limited Access

• Use OATS Transit and MO Rides to find rides to medical care and groceries.
• Ask your AAA about home-delivered meals, mobile food pantries, and telehealth options through MO HealthNet.
• Missouri Office of Rural Health & Primary Care lists rural health clinics and resources:
  https://health.mo.gov/living/families/ruralhealth/

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Health Coverage Options at a Glance

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Regional Resources (Selected)

Your Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is the best entry point for local services (meals, caregiver help, in-home services, transportation info). Find yours here:
Missouri AAAs: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/aaa/

• St. Louis City – St. Louis Area Agency on Aging (SLAAA):
  https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/human-services/aging-services/
• Kansas City region – Mid-America Regional Council (Aging & Adult Services):
  https://www.marc.org/aging-health/
• Springfield/Greene County – SeniorAge Area Agency on Aging:
  https://www.senioragemo.org/
• Columbia/Jefferson City – Aging Best (formerly Central Missouri AAA):
  https://www.agingbest.org/
• St. Joseph/Northwest – Aging Matters in the Northwest region:
  Check AAA directory for the Northwest region: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/aaa/
• Southeast/Cape Girardeau – Aging Matters (Southeast Missouri):
  https://agingmatters2u.com/

Transit quick links:

• St. Louis Metro Transit: https://www.metrostlouis.org/
• RideKC (Kansas City): https://ridekc.org/
• OATS Transit statewide: https://www.oatstransit.org/
• MO Rides directory: https://morides.org/

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I find someone to help me apply for multiple programs at once?
   Start with your Area Agency on Aging: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/aaa/. They can help with meals, in-home care screenings, benefits checks (SNAP, LIHEAP), and Medicare counseling referrals. You can also call 2‑1‑1 for local assistance.
2. I’m on Medicare and my drugs are too expensive. What should I try first?
   Check the Missouri Rx Plan (MoRx): https://dss.mo.gov/morx/. Apply for Medicare Extra Help (LIS): https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/. Ask Missouri SHIP to review your Part D plan and drug list before Open Enrollment: https://missouriship.org (800-390-3330).
3. Can Medicaid help me stay at home instead of going to a nursing home?
   Yes, MO HealthNet’s Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) can provide personal care, homemaker, respite, and other supports at home if you meet medical and financial criteria. Learn more and request an assessment: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/hcbs/.
4. My power is about to be shut off. What can I do right now?
   Call your utility company to alert them and ask about any medical hardship forms. Apply for LIHEAP emergency help (ECIP) at https://mydss.mo.gov/energy-assistance or call 855-373-4636. Ask 2‑1‑1 about local charity funds (Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, St. Vincent de Paul).
5. I need a safe, affordable apartment for seniors. Where do I look?
   Check the MHDC affordable housing search: https://mhdc.com/ and HUD’s Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov/. Ask multiple housing authorities about Section 8 waitlists: https://www.hud.gov/states/missouri/renting. Expect waitlists—apply in more than one place and consider tax-credit senior buildings.
6. Are there free or low-cost dental options for seniors?
   Yes. If you have MO HealthNet, adult dental is covered (details vary): https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/benefit-information.htm. Also check Dental Lifeline Network – Missouri: https://dentallifeline.org/missouri/ and UMKC School of Dentistry Clinics: https://dentistry.umkc.edu/patients/.
7. How do I get rides to the doctor if I live in a rural area?
   Try OATS Transit: https://www.oatstransit.org/ and search MO Rides: https://morides.org/. If you’re on MO HealthNet, schedule NEMT rides: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/participants/pages/medtrans.htm (866-269-5927). Book early.
8. What tax help is there for homeowners or renters on a fixed income?
   Apply for the Missouri Property Tax Credit (MO‑PTC): https://dor.mo.gov/personal/ptc/. Some counties may offer a senior property tax freeze—ask your county assessor for current eligibility and how to apply.
9. Who do I call about suspected elder abuse?
   Missouri Adult Abuse & Neglect Hotline: 1‑800‑392‑0210. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
10. Where can I find free clinics or low-cost primary care?
    Use the Missouri Association of Free & Charitable Clinics directory: https://missourifreeclinics.org/member-clinics-directory/ and the Missouri Primary Care Association list of community health centers: https://www.mo-pca.org/.

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Tables: Quick Reference

Core Programs and Contacts

Housing & Repairs at a Glance

Food & Nutrition Snapshot

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Realistic Tips and “Reality Checks”

• Applications take time—be ready with ID, proof of Missouri residency, Social Security number, proof of income, and recent bills.
• Housing vouchers and some repair programs have long waitlists. Apply to more than one option and keep your contact info updated with each program.
• Benefits like Medicare Extra Help and the Property Tax Credit change over time and may grow with inflation. Re-check your eligibility yearly.
• If mobility or technology is a barrier, ask your AAA for help completing applications in person or by phone.

Example scenario: You have Medicare, a fixed income, and high drug costs. A SHIP counselor helps you switch to a better Part D plan, you apply for Extra Help with Social Security, and you add MoRx—together cutting your monthly drug costs substantially. Then the AAA helps you file for the Property Tax Credit at tax time.

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Resources (Official Links)

• Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services (Seniors): https://health.mo.gov/seniors/
• Missouri myDSS (apply for MO HealthNet, SNAP, LIHEAP): https://mydss.mo.gov/
• Missouri SHIP (Medicare counseling): https://missouriship.org
• Missouri Property Tax Credit (MO‑PTC): https://dor.mo.gov/personal/ptc/
• Missouri LIHEAP (energy help): https://mydss.mo.gov/energy-assistance
• Weatherization Assistance Program: https://dnr.mo.gov/energy/weatherization-assistance-program
• AAAs directory: https://health.mo.gov/seniors/aaa/
• Missouri Adult Abuse & Neglect Hotline: 1-800-392-0210
• HUD Missouri (renting): https://www.hud.gov/states/missouri/renting
• HUD Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov/
• USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Missouri): https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/mo
• Missouri Association of Free & Charitable Clinics: https://missourifreeclinics.org/member-clinics-directory/
• OATS Transit: https://www.oatstransit.org/
• MO Rides: https://morides.org/
• Missouri Rx Plan (MoRx): https://dss.mo.gov/morx/
• Social Security (Extra Help, SSI, SSDI): https://www.ssa.gov/
• Meals on Wheels America (find meals): https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/find-meals
• Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org/ (Helpline 800-272-3900)

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Disclaimer

Program details, funding levels, and eligibility can change. Always confirm the latest information with the official agency or organization linked in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, or financial 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.