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









Senior Benefits and Assistance Programs in Nebraska (2025 Guide)
Last updated: August 2025
Key Takeaways
- Nebraska offers many programs that can help with healthcare costs, food, housing and rent, home repairs, utilities, transportation, and taxes. The challenge is knowing where to start and how to qualify.
- Start with your Area Agency on Aging and ACCESSNebraska to check eligibility and apply for multiple benefits.
- For healthcare, look at Nebraska Medicaid (including home- and community-based services), Medicare Savings Programs, and the federal Extra Help program for prescriptions.
- For housing and home safety, check Section 8 housing, USDA Section 504 Home Repair Grants/Loans, and the Weatherization Assistance Program.
- If you’re in a crisis, call 211 for local help, 988 for mental health, or reach your county assessor by June 30 each year for the Homestead Exemption on property taxes.
If You Need Emergency Help
When you’re in crisis, use these numbers and links first.
Type of help | What it does | How to contact |
---|---|---|
Police/Fire/Medical | Immediate life-threatening emergencies | Call 911 |
Mental health crisis | 24/7 support, talk/text/chat | Call or text 988; visit the 988 website at https://988lifeline.org |
Find local help fast | Food, shelter, utilities, senior services | Call 211 or visit the Nebraska 211 directory at https://ne211.org |
Adult Protective Services | Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult | Nebraska APS: see DHHS APS page at https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Abuse,-Neglect-and-Exploitation-of-Vulnerable-Adults.aspx |
Domestic violence | 24/7 confidential help | National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800‑799‑7233 or https://www.thehotline.org |
Disaster assistance | State emergency info and recovery services | Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA): https://nema.nebraska.gov |
Tip: If you’re in a utility shutoff or eviction crisis, call 211 and your local Area Agency on Aging right away. Funding is often limited and first-come, first-served.
How to Use This Guide
- Skim the “Quick Program Finder” tables for what you need.
- Click the official links provided to apply or learn more.
- If a program looks right but you’re not sure you qualify, call and ask. Many programs allow exceptions or provide referrals.
Quick Program Finder: Money, Food, Healthcare, Housing
Topic | Program | Who it helps (at a glance) | Where to apply |
---|---|---|---|
Money | Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD) | Very low-income Nebraskans who are aged 65+, blind, or disabled; may include limited medical coverage if not Medicaid-eligible | Nebraska DHHS AABD: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Aged-Blind-or-Disabled.aspx |
Money | Supplemental Security Income (SSI) | Very low-income seniors 65+ or disabled | SSI at Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/ssi/ |
Taxes | Homestead Exemption | Homeowners 65+ (or disabled) with income/home value within limits; reduces property taxes | Nebraska Dept. of Revenue Homestead Exemption: https://revenue.nebraska.gov/PAD/homestead-exemption |
Utilities | Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | Helps with heating/cooling bills, weatherization referrals | Nebraska LIHEAP: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Energy-Assistance.aspx |
Food | SNAP (Food Stamps) | Groceries for eligible low-income households | Nebraska SNAP: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/SNAP.aspx |
Food | Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) | Monthly food package for eligible adults 60+ | Nebraska CSFP: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Commodity-Supplemental-Food-Program.aspx |
Healthcare | Nebraska Medicaid & HCBS Waivers | Medical coverage; home- and community-based services | Nebraska Medicaid: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Medicaid-Eligibility.aspx |
Medicare help | SHIIP counseling + Medicare Savings Programs | Free, unbiased Medicare help; possible help paying Part A/B premiums and more | Nebraska SHIIP (Dept. of Insurance): https://doi.nebraska.gov/consumer/senior-health-insurance-information-program-shiip |
Housing | Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher | Rent help for low-income renters (including seniors) | HUD Nebraska renting resources: https://www.hud.gov/states/nebraska/renting |
Home repair | USDA Section 504 Home Repair | Grants (62+) up to $10,000 and low-interest loans to fix health/safety issues | USDA Nebraska 504 Program: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/ne |
Reality check: Some programs have waiting lists (especially Section 8 and home repair). Apply early, keep your paperwork handy, and respond quickly to letters or calls to keep your place in line.
Who to Call First in Nebraska
- ACCESSNebraska for state benefits (SNAP, LIHEAP, Medicaid, AABD): https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/ACCESSNebraska.aspx
- Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for local services (meals, rides, caregiver help): start at the State Unit on Aging page: https://dhhs.ne.gov/pages/aging.aspx
- 211 for immediate local referrals: https://ne211.org
Bring or upload: ID, proof of Nebraska residency, proof of income, benefit letters (Social Security, pension), bank statements, lease/mortgage, and utility bills.
Money, Taxes, and Everyday Bills
Social Security programs
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- What it is: Monthly cash for very low-income seniors (65+) and people with disabilities.
- Why it matters: Can help cover basics like rent, food, and medicines.
- Where to learn/apply: See SSI at Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/ssi/
- Social Security retirement and survivor benefits
- What it is: Monthly benefits based on your work history or a spouse’s.
- Where to start: Create or sign in to your my Social Security account: https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/
Nebraska Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD)
- What it is: State cash assistance for very low-income seniors and people who are blind or disabled. May also include limited medical coverage for some who aren’t eligible for Medicaid.
- Good to know: Amounts depend on income and need. You’ll be asked about your assets and living situation.
- Learn more: Nebraska DHHS AABD: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Aged-Blind-or-Disabled.aspx
Property tax relief: Nebraska Homestead Exemption
- What it is: Reduces or eliminates property taxes for eligible homeowners age 65+ or those with qualifying disabilities, within income and home value limits.
- Deadline: Applications typically due by June 30 each year through your county assessor.
- Learn more and check forms: Nebraska Dept. of Revenue Homestead Exemption: https://revenue.nebraska.gov/PAD/homestead-exemption
Reality check: Income and home value limits change. Bring proof of income (Social Security benefit statements, pensions) and your property information.
Help with utility bills
- LIHEAP (energy assistance)
- What it covers: Help with heating/cooling bills, crisis assistance, and may include weatherization referrals.
- Apply via ACCESSNebraska: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Energy-Assistance.aspx
- Utility company programs (examples)
- Omaha Public Power District (OPPD) Energy Assistance Program: https://www.oppd.com/residential/pay-my-bill/assistance/
- Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) Payment Assistance options: https://www.nppd.com/customer-service/billing-payment-options
- Black Hills Energy assistance, budget billing, and energy-saving programs: https://www.blackhillsenergy.com/assistance
Tip: Call your utility provider before you miss a payment. Ask about payment plans and medical hardship protections.
Phone and internet
- Lifeline (federal): Monthly discount on phone or internet for eligible low-income households. Learn more and apply through the Lifeline Support site: https://www.lifelinesupport.org
Housing and Rent Help
Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV)
- What it is: A federal rent voucher that pays a portion of your rent directly to your landlord. You pay the rest.
- How it works: You find a unit that meets program standards; the PHA approves it.
- Reality check: Waitlists can be long and may open only at certain times.
- Where to start: See HUD Nebraska renting resources and find local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs): https://www.hud.gov/states/nebraska/renting
Public Housing
- What it is: Affordable apartments managed by local housing authorities.
- Good for: Seniors on very low incomes, especially those who need accessible units or on-site services.
- Where to check: Use HUD’s resource directory for Nebraska: https://www.hud.gov/states/nebraska/renting
Charities and community groups
- Salvation Army (Western Division—Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota): May offer rent/utility help, shelters, and disaster support. See locations and programs: https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/western/
- Catholic Charities of Omaha: Financial assistance, food, and community resources: https://www.ccomaha.org
- People’s City Mission (Lincoln): Shelter, transitional housing, free clinic: https://pcmlincoln.org
Reality check: Funding is limited. Apply early in the month. Bring ID, proof of income, and a lease or eviction notice if applicable.
Home Repairs, Safety, and Weatherization
Program | What it covers | Highlights | Where to learn/apply |
---|---|---|---|
USDA Section 504 Home Repair | Fix critical health/safety issues, accessibility modifications | Grants up to 10,000for62+(mustkeepthehome3years),loansupto10,000 for 62+ (must keep the home 3 years), loans up to 40,000 at 1% for up to 20 years | USDA Nebraska 504 Program: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/ne |
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | Insulation, sealing air leaks, heating system repairs | Free energy-saving upgrades for eligible households; reduces bills and improves comfort | Nebraska Weatherization (NDEE): https://energy.ne.gov/weatherization-assistance-program/ |
Habitat for Humanity Omaha Home Repair | Exterior and critical repairs like roofs, windows, plumbing, HVAC | Low-cost or zero-interest options; Habitat serves as contractor with warranty | Habitat Omaha Home Repair: https://habitatomaha.org/programs/home-repair/ |
Tip: Keep photos of problem areas, recent utility bills, and contractor estimates (if you have them). These help show need and speed up decisions.
Healthcare and Long-Term Care
Nebraska Medicaid
- What it is: Health coverage for eligible low-income Nebraskans, including seniors. It includes doctor visits, hospital care, and long-term services and supports.
- Long-term care: Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers can cover in-home supports, adult day services, assisted living, and more for those who qualify.
- Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT): Rides to approved medical appointments for eligible members.
- Learn more and check eligibility: Nebraska Medicaid (DHHS): https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Medicaid-Eligibility.aspx
Reality check: Medicaid has income and asset tests for long-term care. It’s okay to ask for a prescreening and to talk with legal aid or a benefits counselor.
Medicare help in Nebraska
- SHIIP (Senior Health Insurance Information Program)
- What it is: Free, unbiased help to compare Medicare plans, check drug costs, and screen for savings programs.
- Where to connect: Nebraska Dept. of Insurance SHIIP: https://doi.nebraska.gov/consumer/senior-health-insurance-information-program-shiip
- Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI)
- What they do: May pay your Part B premium and sometimes other costs if your income/resources are within limits.
- How to apply: Through Nebraska Medicaid. See DHHS Medicaid eligibility: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Medicaid-Eligibility.aspx
- Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) for Part D drugs
- What it does: Lowers prescription premiums and copays for those who qualify.
- Apply with Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/
Prescription discounts
- Nebraska Rx Card
- What it is: A free statewide prescription discount program; savings vary by medication and pharmacy.
- Learn more: https://nebraskarxcard.com/
Low-cost and free clinics
- North Omaha Area Health (NOAH) Clinic: Primary care and mental health assessments, low-cost care. Appointments: https://www.noahclinic.org
- Healing Gift Free Clinic (Omaha): Basic medical care for uninsured adults. Info: https://healinggiftfreeclinic.com
- People’s City Mission Free Clinic (Lincoln): Medical and dental services for the uninsured: https://pcmlincoln.org
Dental Care: Low-Cost and Free Options
Program/Clinic | Services | Notes | Where to learn/apply |
---|---|---|---|
Nebraska Mission of Mercy (NMOM) | Free dental clinics on select dates | First-come, first-served; some procedures not available | Check clinic dates: https://www.phsneb.org/2017/04/06/nebraska-mission-mercy/ |
OneWorld Dental (multiple locations) | Exams, cleanings, extractions, oral surgery | Sliding fee scale for uninsured; may offer transportation | OneWorld Dental: https://www.oneworldomaha.org/for-patients/services-programs/dental/ |
Clinic With a Heart (Lincoln) | Free dental exams and limited treatment | Referrals for low-cost procedures | https://www.clinicwithaheart.org |
UNMC SHARING Clinics (Dental) | Student-run clinics with supervised care | Free/low-cost services; check schedules | https://www.unmc.edu/dentistry/outreach/sharingclinic.html |
Donated Dental Services (Dental Lifeline Network) | Comprehensive dental for eligible seniors | Free treatment by volunteer dentists; some may have small costs | Nebraska DDS: https://dentallifeline.org/nebraska/ |
Reality check: Demand is high and wait times can be long. Get on multiple lists and answer calls quickly—missed calls often mean lost appointments.
Food and Nutrition
- SNAP (Food Stamps)
- Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries.
- Apply and learn more: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/SNAP.aspx
- Congregate Meals and Home-Delivered Meals (Meals on Wheels)
- Hot, nutritious meals served at senior centers, and delivered to homebound older adults.
- Start with your local AAA: State Unit on Aging has links: https://dhhs.ne.gov/pages/aging.aspx
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)
- Monthly package of healthy foods for eligible adults 60+.
- Learn more: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Commodity-Supplemental-Food-Program.aspx
- Food banks and pantries
- Find a pantry near you: Food Bank for the Heartland: https://foodbankheartland.org
Tip: If cooking is hard, ask your AAA about frozen meals, dietary options (diabetic, low-sodium), and wellness checks during delivery.
Transportation
- RYDE Transit (central Nebraska counties)
- Low-cost rides to medical appointments, shopping, meal sites; accessible vehicles available.
- Learn more: https://communityactionmidne.com/ryde-transit-public-transportation-program-reach-your-destination-easily/
- Medicaid rides
- If you have Nebraska Medicaid, you may qualify for free non-emergency medical transportation.
- For Nebraska Total Care members: ride information and scheduling guidance: https://www.nebraskatotalcare.com/members/medicaid/benefits-services/transportation.html
- Area Agencies on Aging
- Many AAAs offer rides or can refer you to volunteer driver programs and city paratransit.
- Start here: https://dhhs.ne.gov/pages/aging.aspx
Reality check: Schedule rides as early as possible (often 48 hours or more). Ask about companion rules and mobility device requirements.
Special Focus
Veteran Seniors
- Nebraska Veterans’ Aid (NVA)
- Temporary financial help for basics like food, shelter, clothing, fuel, and transportation during hardship.
- Details and how to apply: https://veterans.nebraska.gov/nva
- Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs
- Help with VA benefits (pensions, Aid and Attendance, healthcare enrollment), and state veteran services.
- Start here: https://veterans.nebraska.gov/
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
- To learn about VA health, pensions, and Aid and Attendance: https://www.va.gov
Tip: Bring your DD-214 when meeting with a Veteran Service Officer (VSO). They can file claims at no cost.
LGBTQ+ Seniors
- OutNebraska
- Statewide advocacy and community connections; can point you to inclusive senior services and support groups.
- Learn more: https://outnebraska.org
- SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline
- Friendly, anonymous support and referrals for older LGBTQ+ adults and their caregivers.
- See SAGE resources: https://www.sageusa.org
Ask your AAA and healthcare providers about LGBTQ+-affirming services and inclusive housing options.
Seniors with Disabilities
- Nebraska Medicaid HCBS Waivers
- In-home supports, personal care, adult day services, and assisted living for those who qualify.
- Learn more: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Medicaid-Eligibility.aspx
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- If you became disabled before 65, SSDI may help; you may later transition to Medicare.
- SSDI information: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/
- Assistive technology and independent living
- Ask your AAA about home modifications and durable medical equipment programs.
- 211 can also refer to local equipment loan closets: https://ne211.org
Tribal-Specific Resources
Nebraska is home to several Tribal Nations, including the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska, Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, Santee Sioux Nation, and the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska.
- Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs: connections to tribal services and contacts: https://indianaffairs.nebraska.gov
- Indian Health Service (Great Plains Area): information on IHS clinics and services: https://www.ihs.gov/greatplains/
- Tribal health and elder services: Contact your Tribe’s offices for elder programs, transportation, and housing supports.
- Bureau of Indian Affairs—General Assistance: basic needs assistance for eligible tribal members; start with your Tribe or BIA regional office: https://www.bia.gov/bia/ois/dhs
Tip: If you’re a tribal elder living off-reservation, ask both your AAA and your Tribe about available services—you may qualify for supports from both.
Rural Seniors and Limited Access
- USDA Section 504 Home Repair and Weatherization can be especially helpful where contractors and services are scarce.
- Use 211 to find volunteer driver programs or church ride ministries.
- Ask your AAA about telephone reassurance calls, meal delivery to remote areas, and mobile clinics.
- If broadband is limited, ask local libraries about devices and Wi‑Fi hotspots, and ask your healthcare provider about telephone-only telehealth options.
Applying and Staying Eligible: Tips That Help
- Keep copies of everything: applications, approval letters, and benefit cards.
- Report changes: income, household members, address, and bank accounts—usually within 10 days.
- Recertify on time: Many programs require periodic reviews. Mark your calendar.
- If denied, appeal: You often have 30–90 days. Ask legal aid for help: Legal Aid of Nebraska: https://www.legalaidofnebraska.org
Healthcare and Dental: Summary Table
Need | Best first stop | Other good options |
---|---|---|
Medicare plan questions | Nebraska SHIIP: https://doi.nebraska.gov/consumer/senior-health-insurance-information-program-shiip | Extra Help for drug costs: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/ |
Medicaid eligibility | Nebraska DHHS Medicaid eligibility: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Medicaid-Eligibility.aspx | Medicaid NEMT rides via your plan (see your plan’s site) |
Prescriptions | Nebraska Rx Card: https://nebraskarxcard.com/ | Ask your pharmacist about manufacturer patient assistance programs |
Dental | Nebraska Mission of Mercy schedule: https://www.phsneb.org/2017/04/06/nebraska-mission-mercy/ | OneWorld Dental: https://www.oneworldomaha.org/for-patients/services-programs/dental/; Dental Lifeline Network: https://dentallifeline.org/nebraska/ |
Food and Utilities: Summary Table
Need | Program | Apply/Find |
---|---|---|
Groceries | SNAP (Food Stamps) | https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/SNAP.aspx |
Monthly senior food box | CSFP (60+) | https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Commodity-Supplemental-Food-Program.aspx |
Meals | Congregate/Home-delivered meals via AAA | https://dhhs.ne.gov/pages/aging.aspx |
Food pantry | Food Bank for the Heartland | https://foodbankheartland.org |
Energy bills | LIHEAP | https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Energy-Assistance.aspx |
Electric utility assistance | OPPD/EAP, NPPD, Black Hills Energy | OPPD: https://www.oppd.com/residential/pay-my-bill/assistance/; NPPD: https://www.nppd.com/customer-service/billing-payment-options; Black Hills Energy: https://www.blackhillsenergy.com/assistance |
Transportation and Housing: Summary Table
Category | Program | What it does | Learn more |
---|---|---|---|
Rides (rural/central) | RYDE Transit | Low-cost rides; accessible vehicles | https://communityactionmidne.com/ryde-transit-public-transportation-program-reach-your-destination-easily/ |
Medicaid rides | Non-emergency medical transportation | Free rides to covered medical visits (for eligible Medicaid members) | Check your plan; Nebraska Total Care info: https://www.nebraskatotalcare.com/members/medicaid/benefits-services/transportation.html |
Rent help | Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) | Pays part of rent to landlord | HUD Nebraska: https://www.hud.gov/states/nebraska/renting |
Home repair | USDA Section 504 | Grants/loans to fix health/safety hazards | https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/ne |
Weatherization | Weatherization Assistance | Lowers energy bills with free upgrades | https://energy.ne.gov/weatherization-assistance-program/ |
Nebraska Statistics: Older Adult Snapshot
According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey (ACS), older adults are a significant share of Nebraska’s population. For detailed Nebraska senior demographics (age, disability, poverty, SNAP participation), see the Census ACS data for Nebraska (Table S0101) at https://data.census.gov. You can also review the State Unit on Aging’s resources at https://dhhs.ne.gov/pages/aging.aspx.
Reality check: Program eligibility often considers both your income and household size, not just your age. Always check the current rules on the official program page.
Resources by Region
Use these starting points to find services near you. If you’re not sure which office serves your county, call 211 or your Area Agency on Aging.
Omaha Metro (Douglas, Sarpy, and nearby counties)
- Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging (ENOA): meals, caregiver support, transportation, senior centers. https://enoa.org
- Housing, rent, basic needs: Salvation Army Western Division: https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/western/; Catholic Charities of Omaha: https://www.ccomaha.org
- Health and dental: OneWorld Community Health Centers: https://www.oneworldomaha.org; NOAH Clinic: https://www.noahclinic.org
- Food: Food Bank for the Heartland pantry finder: https://foodbankheartland.org
Lincoln/Lancaster and Surrounding Counties
- Aging Partners (AAA): senior centers, meals, wellness, and transportation. Start here via State Unit on Aging: https://dhhs.ne.gov/pages/aging.aspx
- People’s City Mission (shelter, clinic, food): https://pcmlincoln.org
- Clinic With a Heart (medical/dental clinic): https://www.clinicwithaheart.org
Central Nebraska (Grand Island, Kearney, Hastings)
- Area Agency on Aging (regional): find via State Unit on Aging directory: https://dhhs.ne.gov/pages/aging.aspx
- RYDE Transit: https://communityactionmidne.com/ryde-transit-public-transportation-program-reach-your-destination-easily/
- Habitat Omaha Home Repair serves Omaha area; for central Nebraska, ask your AAA about local repair/weatherization partners or check Weatherization: https://energy.ne.gov/weatherization-assistance-program/
Northeast Nebraska (Norfolk, South Sioux City)
- Regional AAA: see State Unit on Aging directory: https://dhhs.ne.gov/pages/aging.aspx
- Food assistance: check local pantries via Food Bank for the Heartland: https://foodbankheartland.org
- Tribal resources (Winnebago, Omaha, Santee Sioux): see Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs: https://indianaffairs.nebraska.gov
Panhandle and Western Nebraska (Scottsbluff/Gering, Alliance, Chadron)
- Aging Office of Western Nebraska (AAA): find via State Unit on Aging: https://dhhs.ne.gov/pages/aging.aspx
- Weatherization and home repair: USDA Section 504 and Weatherization Program links above.
- Transportation: local AAA and any city or county transit; ask 211 for volunteer driver programs.
North Platte, McCook, and Southwest Nebraska
- Regional AAA: see State Unit on Aging directory: https://dhhs.ne.gov/pages/aging.aspx
- Ask your local hospital/clinic about patient transportation funds and medication assistance.
Tip: For every region, your AAA is the best entry point. They coordinate nutrition, caregiver supports, and rides, and they know the local charities that can help in a pinch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How do I apply for Medicaid in Nebraska?
Apply online through ACCESSNebraska or get in-person/phone help via Nebraska DHHS. Details and eligibility: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Medicaid-Eligibility.aspx - I’m on Medicare. Can I get help paying my premiums?
Yes. Medicare Savings Programs may pay your Part B premium (and sometimes more) if your income/resources qualify. Apply through Nebraska Medicaid: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Medicaid-Eligibility.aspx. Also apply for Extra Help with drug costs: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/ - What is the Homestead Exemption and when is the deadline?
It reduces property taxes for qualifying homeowners 65+ or disabled. You apply with your county assessor, generally by June 30 each year. Program info and forms: https://revenue.nebraska.gov/PAD/homestead-exemption - Are there home repair grants just for seniors?
Yes. USDA Section 504 grants (for 62+) can fund health/safety repairs. Loans are also available at low interest. Learn more: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/ne - Where can I get free or low-cost dental care?
Start with Nebraska Mission of Mercy clinic dates and organizations like OneWorld Dental, Clinic With a Heart (Lincoln), UNMC SHARING Clinics, and Donated Dental Services. See the “Dental Care” section for links. - I need a wheelchair ramp and grab bars. Who helps with that?
Check USDA Section 504, Weatherization (sometimes), and your AAA for home modification resources. Some nonprofits and churches also fund accessibility projects. Start with your AAA: https://dhhs.ne.gov/pages/aging.aspx - Can I get rides to medical appointments?
If you’re on Medicaid, you may qualify for free non-emergency medical transportation—schedule ahead. If not, ask your AAA, RYDE Transit (in central counties), city paratransit, or 211 for volunteer driver programs. - What if I don’t qualify for SNAP but still need food?
Use congregate/home-delivered meals via your AAA and visit local pantries through Food Bank for the Heartland’s finder: https://foodbankheartland.org - How do I avoid scams when applying for benefits?
Apply only through official government or well-known nonprofit sites (DHHS, HUD, USDA, 211, your AAA). Be wary of anyone asking for upfront fees or your full Social Security number over email. If in doubt, call 211 or Legal Aid of Nebraska: https://www.legalaidofnebraska.org - I’m a veteran. Where do I start?
Contact your county Veteran Service Officer through the Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs: https://veterans.nebraska.gov. Ask about Nebraska Veterans’ Aid (NVA) for emergency needs: https://veterans.nebraska.gov/nva
Additional Tips and Reality Checks
- If your application is pending: keep attending medical appointments and paying rent/utility minimums when possible—approvals are rarely immediate.
- Keep a benefits binder: copies of IDs, Social Security and pension letters, bank statements, medical bills, property tax statements, and a log of calls.
- If you move: tell Social Security, DHHS, and your health plan. Mail problems can cause missed deadlines and lost benefits.
Resource Links (Official and Well-Established)
- Nebraska State Unit on Aging (DHHS): https://dhhs.ne.gov/pages/aging.aspx
- ACCESSNebraska (apply for SNAP, LIHEAP, Medicaid): https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/ACCESSNebraska.aspx
- Nebraska Medicaid eligibility: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Medicaid-Eligibility.aspx
- SNAP (Food Stamps): https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/SNAP.aspx
- LIHEAP energy assistance: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Energy-Assistance.aspx
- Homestead Exemption (Dept. of Revenue): https://revenue.nebraska.gov/PAD/homestead-exemption
- SHIIP (Medicare counseling): https://doi.nebraska.gov/consumer/senior-health-insurance-information-program-shiip
- Extra Help for prescriptions (SSA): https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/
- SSI: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/ssi/
- HUD Nebraska rental help: https://www.hud.gov/states/nebraska/renting
- USDA Section 504 Home Repair: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/ne
- Weatherization Assistance Program (Nebraska): https://energy.ne.gov/weatherization-assistance-program/
- Nebraska Rx Card: https://nebraskarxcard.com/
- Food Bank for the Heartland: https://foodbankheartland.org
- Nebraska Veterans’ Aid: https://veterans.nebraska.gov/nva
- Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs: https://veterans.nebraska.gov/
- Legal Aid of Nebraska: https://www.legalaidofnebraska.org
- 211 Nebraska: https://ne211.org
- Indian Health Service (Great Plains): https://www.ihs.gov/greatplains/
- Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs: https://indianaffairs.nebraska.gov
- OutNebraska: https://outnebraska.org
- RYDE Transit: https://communityactionmidne.com/ryde-transit-public-transportation-program-reach-your-destination-easily/
- Nebraska Total Care transportation: https://www.nebraskatotalcare.com/members/medicaid/benefits-services/transportation.html
Disclaimer
Programs, amounts, and eligibility rules change over time and can vary by county or provider. Always confirm details with the official agency or organization using the links in this guide. This guide is for general information 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 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.