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

Key Senior Statistics in Nebraska (65 and over)
Senior Population: 340,925 (17.2%) Senior Population: 340,925 (17.2%)
Male: 46.1% Male: 46.1%
Female: 53.9% Female: 53.9%
Median Age: 73.1 Median Age: 73.1
Disability: 30.4% Disability: 30.4%
With Social Security Income: 88.4% With Social Security Income: 88.4%
With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 5.5% With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 5.5%
Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 10.3% Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 10.3%
Data Source: Data Source:
Data is taken from American Community Survey 2023. Please check our detailed page about Senior Statistics of Nebraska for more data and information.

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

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

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

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

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


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

Tip: If cooking is hard, ask your AAA about frozen meals, dietary options (diabetic, low-sodium), and wellness checks during delivery.


Transportation

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
  • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

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
  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
  • 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)

Lincoln/Lancaster and Surrounding Counties

Central Nebraska (Grand Island, Kearney, Hastings)

Northeast Nebraska (Norfolk, South Sioux City)

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)

  1. 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
  2. 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/
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. 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.
  6. 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
  7. 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.
  8. 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
  9. 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
  10. 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)


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.