New Hampshire Senior Assistance Programs, Benefits, and Grants (2025)

Senior Benefits and Assistance Programs in New Hampshire

Last updated: August 2025

Key takeaways

• Start with ServiceLink for one-on-one, no-cost guidance. They can screen you for benefits, help with applications, and connect you to local programs: ServiceLink statewide helpline 1-866-634-9412 or visit the ServiceLink website.
• Apply for cash, food, and medical help online at NH EASY. If you’re 60+, you may also qualify for Old Age Assistance and Medicare Savings Programs through NH DHHS.
• Housing help is available but waitlists are common. Apply for Housing Choice Vouchers through New Hampshire Housing and search affordable rentals at NHHousingSearch.org.
• Help with utility bills is available year-round. Check Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP), the Electric Assistance Program, and the Gas Assistance Program through New Hampshire’s Department of Energy and the NH Public Utilities Commission.
• Meals are available at senior centers and delivered to the home if you can’t get out. See the NH DHHS nutrition programs page.
• Be cautious: many programs have income and asset limits, waiting lists, and paperwork. Always verify details with the official agency.

If you need emergency help

• Call 911 for any immediate danger.
• Call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7). Veterans: press 1.
• Call 2-1-1 or visit 211 NH for urgent help with food, shelter, or bills.
• Report elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation: see Adult Protective Services (Bureau of Elderly and Adult Services) and contact local law enforcement if someone is in danger now.
• Domestic or sexual violence help (confidential, 24/7): NH Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.

Quick emergency and statewide contacts

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How New Hampshire helps older adults

New Hampshire’s Bureau of Elderly and Adult Services (BEAS) and the ServiceLink network coordinate most aging services. These include help at home, nutrition, transportation, and benefit counseling.

• Bureau of Elderly and Adult Services: program directory and links
• ServiceLink Aging & Disability Resource Center: statewide benefit counseling and local connections

Reality check: Many programs are funded by state and federal dollars. Budgets and rules can change mid-year. If you’re denied, you may have appeal rights or alternative options—ask ServiceLink to review your case.

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Where to apply online

• NH EASY portal (cash, SNAP/food, Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs): NH EASY
• Social Security (SSI, retirement, Medicare enrollment): Social Security Administration
• Medicare plan finder and enrollment info: Medicare.gov

Tip: If online applications are hard to navigate, call ServiceLink to make an appointment. You can also request help from family, a caregiver, or a trusted friend.

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Money help (cash assistance, income boosts)

Old Age Assistance (OAA) and other state cash programs

New Hampshire provides cash assistance for low-income residents, including older adults:

• Old Age Assistance (OAA): for adults age 65+ with limited income and resources.
• Aid to the Permanently and Totally Disabled (APTD): disability-based.
• Aid to the Needy Blind (ANB): vision-based.

Apply at NH EASY or visit NH DHHS Old Age Assistance for details, income/resource rules, and how benefits work with other programs.

Reality check: Eligibility includes income and asset tests and can be complex. If you already receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you may receive a state supplement automatically in some cases. Always confirm with DHHS.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security

• SSI is a federal benefit for people 65+ or with disabilities who have limited income and resources: Learn about SSI and apply.
• Use the Local Social Security Office Locator to find help near you.

Tip: If your income is just over the limit, ask about medical expense deductions or other adjustments that may help.

Property tax relief

• Low and Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief provides a rebate on part of the state education property tax for qualifying owner-occupants: NH Dept. of Revenue property tax relief.
• Town-level exemptions/credits may be available for seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities. Contact your town or city assessor’s office early—deadlines apply.

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Health coverage, long-term care, and Medicare help

Medicaid for older adults and people with disabilities

• Medicaid for Aged, Blind, and Disabled can help with medical costs. Apply via NH EASY. Learn more at NH DHHS Medicaid programs.
• Medicaid long-term services and supports (LTSS) and home- and community-based services are available through BEAS, including the Choices for Independence (CFI) program for eligible adults who meet a nursing level of care. Start by contacting ServiceLink or review BEAS programs here.

Medicare Savings Programs (“Buy-In”)

These state-run programs can pay your Medicare Part B premium and sometimes deductibles and coinsurance if you qualify by income and assets. See details and how to apply at NH DHHS Medicare Beneficiaries (Medicare Savings Programs).

Uninsured or under-insured?

• ServiceLink’s SHIP-certified counselors provide free Medicare counseling, including Medigap, Part D, and Advantage plans: ServiceLink.
• Community Health Centers (FQHCs) offer primary care and sliding-fee discounts: Find a Health Center (HRSA).
• Prescription help: Ask about New Hampshire’s Medication Bridge program through the Foundation for Healthy Communities. Also check prescription savings programs through your providers and pharmacies.

Reality check: Medicare Advantage and Part D formularies change every year. Review plans annually during Open Enrollment (Oct 15–Dec 7). Ask SHIP/ServiceLink to help you compare.

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Dental care

• Adult Medicaid dental benefit: New Hampshire covers comprehensive adult dental services under Medicaid. To learn what’s covered and find a participating dentist, start at NH DHHS Medicaid and ask about the adult dental benefit.
• Dental Lifeline Network (Donated Dental Services): Free, comprehensive dental care for eligible seniors with serious health or financial challenges. See Dental Lifeline Network – New Hampshire.
• Community Health Centers and hospital dental programs may offer sliding fees: Find a Health Center (HRSA).

Reality check: Waitlists are common for charitable dental programs. Routine preventive care can help you avoid emergencies—ask clinics about cleaning and fluoride options at reduced cost.

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Housing, rent, and home repairs

Housing costs in New Hampshire are high and vacancies are tight. Persistence and early applications are key.

Rental assistance and affordable housing

• Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) — statewide: Apply with New Hampshire Housing (NHHFA). See Housing Choice Voucher Program.
• Public Housing Agencies: If you prefer public housing or local voucher waitlists, see HUD’s New Hampshire PHA directory to contact housing authorities directly.
• Search affordable rentals: Use NHHousingSearch.org to search income-restricted and market-rate units statewide.

Reality check: Waitlists can be long. Apply to multiple lists and update your contact information regularly to avoid being skipped.

Emergency and short-term housing help

• Call 2-1-1 NH for shelter access, eviction prevention, and local emergency aid.
• NH DHHS Bureau of Housing Supports coordinates statewide homelessness services and contracts with local providers: Bureau of Housing Supports.

Tip: If you receive an eviction notice, contact 603 Legal Aid right away to understand your rights and timelines.

Home repairs and accessibility

• USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504): Loans up to $40,000with1$10,000 for homeowners age 62+ who can’t afford a loan. See USDA Home Repair (Section 504).
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Energy-saving upgrades (insulation, sealing, heating system work) for income-eligible households. Apply through your local Community Action agency. Learn more at NH Weatherization Assistance Program (NH Department of Energy).
• City/County rehabilitation programs: Some cities (for example, Nashua) offer deferred or low-interest rehab loans via Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. See Nashua Housing Improvement Program rules and ask your city/town community development office about similar programs.

Reality check: Most repair programs require you to own and live in the home, be current on property taxes, and carry homeowners insurance. Inspections and bid processes can take time—apply before issues become emergencies.

Housing & home repair at a glance

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Utilities, heat, phone, and internet

• Fuel Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Helps with winter heating costs. Apply through your local Community Action agency. Learn more at NH Fuel Assistance (NH Department of Energy).
• Electric Assistance Program (EAP): Monthly discount on your electric bill, typically for 12 months, based on income and household size. Details and application: NH Electric Assistance (NH Department of Energy).
• Gas Assistance Program: Discount on the delivery portion of natural gas bills for customers of Liberty Utilities and Unitil Gas. See NH PUC Gas Assistance Program.
• Lifeline phone discount: Monthly discount on phone or broadband for eligible households. Learn more at NH PUC Lifeline and the national Lifeline Support site.

Reality check: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in 2024 due to lack of funding. Lifeline is still available but provides a smaller discount. Ask your phone or internet company about their low-income plans.

Utility help quick guide

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Food and nutrition

• Congregate and Home-Delivered Meals (Meals on Wheels): Nutritious meals at senior centers or delivered to homebound seniors. See NH DHHS Food, Meals & Nutrition for provider locations and eligibility.
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Monthly box of shelf-stable foods for adults 60+ with limited income. Apply via NH DHHS CSFP for Seniors.
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal produce from local farmers, for income-eligible seniors. See NH DHHS Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition.
• SNAP (Food Stamps): Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries. Older households may qualify even with modest savings or higher medical expenses. Apply at NH EASY or learn more at NH SNAP.

Tip: If cooking is hard, ask about chopped/soft meals, pureed options, or medically tailored meals where available. Delivery drivers can also be an important wellness check.

Food programs overview

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Transportation

• Public and specialized rides: See the statewide directory of Wheelchair Accessible and other transportation resources compiled by the NHCarePath network (PDF).
• Intercity bus discounts: Boston Express offers half-fare for riders 65+ with ID. See Boston Express discounts.
• Medicaid rides: If you have Medicaid, ask your health plan about Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) to medical appointments.

Reality check: Rural areas may have fewer options and require advance scheduling. Ask your local ServiceLink office about volunteer driver programs and local ride vouchers.

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Legal help and consumer protection

• 603 Legal Aid: Intake for civil legal issues like housing, benefits, and consumer problems. Visit 603 Legal Aid.
• New Hampshire Legal Assistance (NHLA): Free legal services for eligible clients. Visit NH Legal Assistance.
• Consumer protection and scams: NH Department of Justice Consumer Protection Bureau (complaints and tips). For national reporting, use the FTC’s ReportFraud site.

Tip: If someone demands payment in gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers, it’s almost certainly a scam. Hang up and verify with the agency directly.

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Special sections

LGBTQ+ older adults

• ServiceLink is inclusive and can connect you to welcoming providers and housing. Start with ServiceLink.
• Legal rights in New England: GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) offers information on identity documents, discrimination, and healthcare access. Visit GLAD.
• National support: SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline offers peer support and resources.

Reality check: If you have faced discrimination in housing or services, you can file a complaint with the NH Commission for Human Rights.

Veterans and military-connected seniors

• VA healthcare and benefits: Manchester VA Medical Center serves most of NH. See Manchester VA.
• State veterans services: Connect with the NH Department of Military Affairs & Veterans Services for state tax credits, assistance, and claims help. Visit NH Veterans Services.
• Emergency financial help: Veterans Count provides short-term assistance for housing, utilities, transportation, and more. See Veterans Count New Hampshire.
• Long-term care: New Hampshire Veterans Home information is available through the state veterans portal.

Tip: Bring your DD-214 and any VA decision letters to appointments. Ask about Aid & Attendance if you need help at home or in assisted living.

Seniors with disabilities

• ServiceLink can screen for APTD cash aid, ABD Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, and CFI home-based care. Start with ServiceLink.
• Durable medical equipment and home mods: Ask about Medicaid coverage, VA benefits (if eligible), and USDA 504 grants/loans for accessibility.
• Protection & Advocacy: For disability rights and advocacy, contact Disability Rights Center–NH (well-established statewide nonprofit).

Tribal-specific resources

New Hampshire does not have federally recognized tribes. Native elders with tribal affiliation may be eligible for services through:

• Indian Health Service (IHS) facilities or Purchased/Referred Care: Find IHS services.
• Title VI Native American Aging Programs (nutrition and caregiver supports): See ACL Title VI programs (check neighboring states and tribal nations).
• You can also use all New Hampshire state and local programs listed in this guide.

Rural seniors and limited access

• Use 2-1-1 and ServiceLink to identify mobile clinics, telehealth options, and volunteer driver programs.
• Mail-order pharmacy and 90-day prescriptions can reduce travel. Ask your plan and doctor.
• Weatherization and fuel assistance are vital in rural areas to keep homes safe and affordable in winter.

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How to get help with applications

• ServiceLink can help you gather documents and submit forms: call 1-866-634-9412.
• NH EASY supports online applications for many programs; you can also submit by mail or in person: NH EASY.
• For housing vouchers, follow instructions carefully, keep copies, and update your contact info while on waitlists.

Documents you may need:

• Proof of identity and age (ID, driver’s license, passport, birth certificate)
• Proof of NH residency (lease, utility bill)
• Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs)
• Bank statements and asset records
• Medical bills (for certain programs)
• Rent or mortgage statements and utility bills

Reality check: If you’re denied, you usually have the right to appeal. Deadlines are short—ask ServiceLink or a legal aid group to help you appeal on time.

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Resources by region (Community Action & local help)

These Community Action agencies handle Fuel Assistance, Weatherization, and other services:

• Southern New Hampshire Services (Hillsborough & Rockingham): SNHS
• Rockingham Community Action (a program of SNHS): Rockingham Community Action
• Community Action Partnership of Strafford County: CAP of Strafford County
• Belknap-Merrimack Counties Community Action Program: BM-CAP
• Tri-County CAP (Coös, Carroll, Grafton): Tri-County CAP
• Southwestern Community Services (Cheshire & Sullivan): Southwestern Community Services

Find your nearest ServiceLink office: ServiceLink locations

Find a Legal Aid provider: 603 Legal Aid and NH Legal Assistance

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: Where should I start if I’m not sure what I qualify for?
A: Call ServiceLink at 1-866-634-9412 or visit your local office. They will review your situation and help you apply for programs like Medicaid, SNAP, Old Age Assistance, and Medicare Savings Programs.

Q: Is there still emergency rental assistance like during the pandemic?
A: The large pandemic-era programs have closed. For current eviction prevention or short-term help, call 2-1-1 NH and check with the NH DHHS Bureau of Housing Supports. Apply to multiple affordable housing options and voucher waitlists early.

Q: Can the state help pay for my Medicare Part B premium?
A: Possibly. The Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) can pay Part B (and sometimes other costs) for qualifying incomes. Apply at NH EASY or see the NH DHHS Medicare Beneficiaries page.

Q: I need dental care but I can’t afford it. What are my options?
A: If you have Medicaid, ask about the adult dental benefit. If you don’t have Medicaid, apply for sliding-scale care at a Community Health Center (Find a Health Center) and consider the Dental Lifeline Network – New Hampshire if you have serious health/financial barriers.

Q: I can’t heat my home this winter. Who can help?
A: Apply for Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) through your local Community Action agency and ask about the Electric Assistance Program. Call 2-1-1 NH for urgent help.

Q: How do I find rides to medical appointments?
A: Ask ServiceLink about local transit, volunteer driver programs, and ADA/paratransit options. If you’re on Medicaid, your plan may provide Non-Emergency Medical Transportation—call the number on your Medicaid card.

Q: Are there programs to help me stay in my home instead of a nursing facility?
A: Yes. The Choices for Independence (CFI) program may provide home- and community-based services if you meet financial and care-level criteria. Contact ServiceLink to start the screening.

Q: What if I think someone is taking my money or neglecting me?
A: If you are in immediate danger, call 911. You can also contact Adult Protective Services through BEAS to report abuse, neglect, or exploitation and get help.

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One-page “who to call” guide

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Tips and reality checks

• Apply early and to multiple programs. Housing and dental programs often have waitlists.
• Keep copies of every application and renewal. Update addresses and phone numbers.
• If your situation changes (income, health, household size), notify agencies right away. This can increase your benefits—or prevent overpayments you would have to repay.
• If you get a denial, ask about appeal rights immediately. Deadlines are usually 10–30 days.
• Beware of scams. Government programs do not charge application fees or accept gift cards or cryptocurrency.

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Resources (official links)

• Bureau of Elderly and Adult Services directory: NH DHHS Adult & Aging Care
• ServiceLink: ServiceLink
• Apply for benefits: NH EASY
• Social Security and Medicare: SSA – Benefits and Medicare.gov
• Housing: NHHFA – HCV, HUD PHA Contacts (NH), NHHousingSearch.org, DHHS Bureau of Housing Supports
• Home repairs & weatherization: USDA Section 504, NH Weatherization Assistance
• Utilities: NH Fuel Assistance, Electric Assistance Program, Gas Assistance Program, Lifeline (NH PUC), LifelineSupport.org
• Food and meals: BEAS Food, Meals & Nutrition, CSFP for Seniors, Senior Farmers’ Market Program, NH SNAP
• Transportation: NHCarePath Transportation Directory (PDF), Boston Express senior discounts
• Legal help: 603 Legal Aid, NH Legal Assistance, NH DOJ Consumer Protection
• Veterans: Manchester VA Medical Center, NH Veterans Services, Veterans Count New Hampshire
• Elder abuse: Adult Protective Services (BEAS)

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Disclaimer

Programs change. Income and asset limits, covered services, and application steps can be updated at any time. Always confirm details with the official agency or ServiceLink before you apply. This guide is for general information and is not legal 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.