North Carolina Senior Assistance Programs, Benefits, and Grants (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

Key takeaways

• North Carolina has strong state, local, and nonprofit support for seniors, but many programs have waitlists and strict eligibility. Apply early and keep documentation ready.
• Start with your county Department of Social Services (DSS), the NC 211 helpline, and your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for personalized guidance.
• Health coverage counseling through SHIIP can lower Medicare costs and help you avoid penalties and scams.
• For heating help, LIEAP opens early for older adults; for urgent energy crises, apply to the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP).
• Home repairs and accessibility upgrades are available through NCHFA’s Urgent Repair Program and Weatherization Assistance. These funds run out fast each year.

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If you need emergency help

• Life-threatening emergencies: Call 911.
• Mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts: Call or text 988 (24/7).
• Elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation: If immediate danger, call 911. Otherwise, contact your county DSS Adult Protective Services. Learn how to report at North Carolina DHHS Adult Protective Services.
• Disaster updates and shelter info: Visit ReadyNC (North Carolina Emergency Management).
• Not sure where to start: Call NC 211 (dial 2-1-1 or 888-892-1162) or visit NC 211 to find local food, housing, healthcare, and transportation help.

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Table: Quick emergency contacts

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How to use this guide

• Each section explains what programs do, who qualifies, what to expect, and how to apply.
• We link to official sources (state agencies, federal programs, and established nonprofits).
• Keep a folder with your ID, Social Security number, proof of income/resources, lease or mortgage, utility bills, and medical documentation. Many programs ask for the same paperwork.

Official data note: According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey, about 1.9 million North Carolinians are age 65+ (17.7% of the population), and around 10.9% live below the federal poverty level. See U.S. Census Bureau ACS (Table S0103) for North Carolina.

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Table: Programs by need (quick start)

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Money and basic needs

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

• What it is: A monthly federal benefit for people 65+ or disabled with limited income and resources.
• Why it matters: Can unlock other benefits (Medicaid, SNAP).
• How to apply: Online or by phone through the Social Security Administration.
• Learn more: Apply for SSI (SSA).

State/County Special Assistance (SA) and Special Assistance In‑Home (SA/IH)

• What it is: State benefit for low-income older adults who need help in an adult care home (SA) or to remain safely at home (SA/IH).
• What it helps with: Part of the cost of care in adult care homes or extra help so you can remain at home.
• How to apply: Through your county DSS. Program details at State/County Special Assistance (NC DHHS) and Special Assistance In‑Home (NC DHHS).

One-time emergency help

• Options: Some counties offer emergency cash help through DSS; faith-based agencies (like Salvation Army) may assist with rent, utilities, or essentials. Call NC 211 to locate local funds.
• Salvation Army (North & South Carolina): Salvation Army Carolinas.

Reality check: Funds are limited and often prioritized for households with disconnection or eviction notices. Bring proof.

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Housing and rent assistance

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) and Public Housing

• What it is: Federal rent subsidies or income-based apartments administered by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs).
• How it works: You pay about 30% of income toward rent; voucher covers the rest up to limits.
• Reality check: Waitlists can be long or closed. Apply to multiple PHAs.
• Find agencies: HUD PHA contact list for North Carolina.

Adult Care Homes (Assisted Living)

• Day-to-day help: Help with bathing, dressing, meals, and supervision for people who don’t need nursing home care.
• Paying for it: Some residents qualify for State/County Special Assistance.
• Learn more: Adult Care Homes (NC Medicaid).

Property tax relief for homeowners 65+

North Carolina offers three main options. Apply through your county tax office—usually by June 1 each year.

Table: North Carolina property tax relief

Tip: Bring proof of age/disability and income. Ask your tax office which option is best for your situation.

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Home repairs, safety, and accessibility

North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) programs

• Urgent Repair Program (URP): For health/safety repairs (e.g., failing septic, unsafe floors, heating). Assistance is offered as an interest‑free, deferred loan forgiven at $2,000 per year. Learn more: Urgent Repair Program (NCHFA).
• Essential Single‑Family Rehabilitation (ESFR): For major repairs essential to safe living; assistance is forgiven at $5,000 per year. Learn more: Essential Single‑Family Rehabilitation (NCHFA).

NC DHHS Housing and Home Improvement

• What it offers: Help with minor repairs, accessibility modifications (ramps, grab bars), and security improvements for adults 60+. Local providers administer funds.
• Learn more: Housing & Home Improvement Assistance (NC DHHS) and Local Provider Directory (PDF).

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

• What it does: Free energy upgrades—insulation, air sealing, HVAC tuning—for eligible households to lower bills and improve comfort.
• Administered by: NC Department of Environmental Quality via local agencies.
• Learn more: Weatherization Assistance Program (NC DEQ).

USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Rural)

• Grants (for age 62+ homeowners) and low‑interest loans to remove health/safety hazards.
• Learn more and apply: USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504) and USDA Rural Development – North Carolina.

Table: Home repair and accessibility programs (at a glance)

Reality check: These programs open and close as funds are used. Get on lists early and call back each season.

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Utilities, energy, and phone/internet

Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP)

• What it is: Seasonal one‑time payment to your heating vendor.
• Seniors often get an early application window.
• Learn more: LIEAP (NC DHHS).

Crisis Intervention Program (CIP)

• What it is: Emergency help when you face a heating or cooling crisis (e.g., disconnection notice, unsafe indoor temps).
• Apply at your county DSS.
• Learn more: Energy Assistance – CIP (NC DHHS).

Lifeline phone/internet discount

• What it does: Up to $9.25/month off phone or internet (more on qualifying Tribal lands).
• Learn more for NC: Lifeline & Link programs (NC DHHS) and Lifeline (USAC).

Important: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped accepting new enrollments and ended most benefits in 2024 unless renewed by Congress. Check the FCC ACP page for updates. Ask providers about low‑cost options like Spectrum Internet Assist (Spectrum) or similar programs.

Utility company programs

• Duke Energy customer assistance and weatherization: Duke Energy Assistance Programs (search by state).
• Dominion Energy North Carolina electric help: Dominion Energy North Carolina.
• Your local electric cooperative may also have assistance—start at NC 211 or your utility’s customer assistance page.

Tip: Ask your utility about medical need forms, payment plans, and third‑party notifications to avoid shut-offs.

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Health coverage, care, and supports

Medicare help (free counseling)

• SHIIP (Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program) offers unbiased help choosing Medicare, Medigap, Part D, and Medicare Advantage plans. They also screen for Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) to pay premiums and some cost-sharing.
• Contact: SHIIP (NC Department of Insurance). Phone: 855‑408‑1212.

Medicaid for seniors (Aged, Blind, Disabled – ABD)

• Helps pay Medicare premiums and may cover healthcare not covered by Medicare. Income and asset limits apply.
• Apply through your county DSS or online via ePass. Learn more: NC Medicaid (Beneficiaries) and NC ePass.

Home and community-based care

• Personal Care Services (PCS): Help with bathing, dressing, mobility at home or in adult care homes. Learn more: Personal Care Services (NC Medicaid).
• CAP/DA Waiver (Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults): In‑home services and case management to avoid nursing home placement. Learn more: CAP/DA (NC Medicaid).
• Private Duty Nursing: Skilled nursing for people with complex needs at home. Learn more: Private Duty Nursing (NC Medicaid).
• PACE (Program of All‑Inclusive Care for the Elderly): Team-based care including adult day health, primary care, therapies, and transportation for people 55+ who meet nursing home level of care and live in a PACE service area. Learn more: PACE in North Carolina (NC Medicaid). Phone (program info): 919‑440‑0331.

Free and low‑cost clinics

• Find a free/charitable clinic: North Carolina Association of Free & Charitable Clinics – Clinic Directory.
• Find a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC): HRSA Find a Health Center.
• Examples:
  • Shifa Free Clinic: Shifa Free Health Clinic (serves uninsured, limited income).
  • Community Free Clinic (Cabarrus County): Hours & Location.

Dental care

• Donated Dental Services (DDS) – Dental Lifeline Network NC: Comprehensive dental care by volunteer dentists for eligible seniors. See Dental Lifeline Network – North Carolina.
• NC Missions of Mercy (NCMOM): Free, large-scale dental clinics held at various times/locations. Check schedules: NC Dental Society Foundation – Missions of Mercy.
• Blue Ridge Free Dental Clinic (WNC): Blue Ridge Free Dental Clinic.
• Agape Dental Ministry (Catawba County): Services at Agape Dental Ministry.

Tip: Dental waitlists can be long. If you have pain, ask about emergency slots.

Vision, hearing, and assistive tech

• NC Assistive Technology Program (NCATP): Device loans, demos, and reuse for mobility, hearing, and vision needs. Learn more: NC Assistive Technology Program (NC DHHS).

Transportation to medical visits

• Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): Contact your county DSS to schedule rides. Learn more: NC Medicaid Transportation.
• Find My Ride NC: A statewide tool to find local transportation providers and paratransit options. Use Find My Ride NC.

Table: Health coverage and care at a glance

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Food and nutrition

• Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP/EBT): Monthly benefit to buy groceries. Older adults can have simplified calculations for medical expenses. Apply online at ePass or through your county DSS. Learn more: Food and Nutrition Services (NC DHHS). NC EBT Customer Service: 866‑719‑0141.
• Congregate and Home‑Delivered Meals: Free meals at senior centers and Meals on Wheels at home (often 5 days/week). Learn more and locate providers: Nutrition—Congregate & Home Delivered Meals (NC DHHS) and Meals on Wheels America – Find Meals.
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal coupons for locally grown produce at participating markets. Learn more: SFMNP information (NC DHHS).

Tip: Food banks can help immediately while benefits are pending. Use NC 211 or Feeding America’s Food Bank Locator to find locations near you.

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Transportation and getting around

• Elderly & Disabled Transportation Assistance Program (EDTAP): County-run, demand-response rides for seniors to medical visits, shopping, and senior centers (availability varies). Start with your local transit agency.
• Find My Ride NC: Plan trips and find providers statewide, including paratransit and volunteer driver programs. Visit Find My Ride NC.
• Area Agencies on Aging: Many coordinate volunteer rides and travel vouchers. Find your AAA below.

Reality check: Rides must be booked in advance. Ask about eligibility, trip limits, and no‑show policies.

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Work, money management, and taxes

• Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP): Paid part‑time training for jobseekers 55+ with limited income. Find providers: DOL SCSEP Finder.
• Free tax preparation: IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and AARP Foundation Tax‑Aide. Use the IRS VITA Locator or AARP Tax‑Aide Locator.
• Avoid scams: See NC Department of Justice – Consumer Protection and report fraud. Medicare fraud help via SHIIP and the Senior Medicare Patrol.

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Legal help and advocacy

• Legal Aid of North Carolina – Senior Law Project: Free civil legal help for eligible seniors (healthcare coverage, housing, consumer issues, benefits, advance directives). Learn more: Legal Aid of NC – Seniors.
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Advocates for residents in nursing homes and adult care homes. Learn more: Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (NC DHHS).
• Advance directives: Download state forms and get help through hospitals, SHIIP, or Legal Aid.

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Inclusive supports: seniors with added barriers

Veterans

• NC Department of Military & Veterans Affairs: Benefits help, housing resources, and referrals. See Housing Assistance for Veterans (NC DMVA).
• Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): Short‑term help with rent, utilities, and rapid rehousing. In NC, see Volunteers of America Chesapeake – Veteran Services.
• NC Heroes Fund: Emergency financial aid for veterans facing hardship. Apply: North Carolina Heroes Fund.
• VA healthcare and pensions: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – VA.gov. For local guidance, contact your county Veterans Service Office.

LGBTQ+ seniors

• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: 877‑360‑LGBT (5428).
• Local community centers may offer social groups, benefits help, and legal clinics. Try NC 211 to find nearby LGBTQ‑friendly services. National resource: SAGE USA.

Reality check: If you’ve faced bias, ask your AAA or SHIIP for affirming providers. You have the right to equal treatment in housing and healthcare.

Seniors with disabilities

• Medicaid CAP/DA and PCS can provide in‑home help. See CAP/DA and PCS info above.
• NC Assistive Technology Program: Device loans, reuse, and home tech solutions (NC DHHS – NCATP).
• Paratransit: ADA paratransit through local transit providers; Find options via Find My Ride NC.

Tribal members

• Title VI Native American Aging Programs: Tribes may offer congregate meals, home-delivered meals, transportation, and case management for elders. Find a Title VI program: ACL – Older Indians, Alaska Natives & Native Hawaiians.
• Indian Health Service (Nashville Area) serves NC tribes; for the Western region, see Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (EBCI).
• Contact your tribal office for elder services and benefits coordination.

Rural seniors

• Home repairs: USDA Section 504 and NCHFA programs can be critical where contractors are scarce.
• Healthcare access: Use HRSA Find a Health Center for FQHCs with sliding fees and telehealth options.
• Internet access: Lifeline can reduce phone/internet costs. ACP ended in 2024 unless renewed; check provider low‑cost plans like Spectrum Internet Assist. Also see EveryoneOn for low‑cost offers.

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Resources by region (where to get local help)

• Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs): Connect to local meal programs, caregiver support, transportation, and case management. Find your AAA via NC DHHS – Area Agencies on Aging.
• County Departments of Social Services (DSS): Apply for Medicaid, SNAP, LIEAP/CIP, and Special Assistance. Find your county DSS via NC DHHS – County Directory.
• NC 211: Dial 2‑1‑1 or visit NC 211 for local shelters, food pantries, and utility help.
• Transit providers: Search by county at Find My Ride NC.

Tip: Ask your AAA for a comprehensive assessment. Many services are funded by the Home and Community Care Block Grant (HCCBG) and have waitlists.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. How do I apply for Medicaid or Medicare Savings Programs in North Carolina?
   Apply through your county DSS or online via NC ePass. SHIIP can screen you for Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI) and help with the application. See NC Medicaid (Beneficiaries) and SHIIP.
2. I can’t afford my heat—what should I do first?
   If it’s an emergency (shut‑off notice, medical risk), apply for the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) at your county DSS. For seasonal help, apply for LIEAP early. Learn more at Energy Assistance (NC DHHS).
3. What if the Section 8 waiting list is closed?
   Apply to multiple PHAs and consider public housing and affordable housing owned by nonprofits. Ask your AAA and 211 about rental assistance funds. See HUD PHA contacts for North Carolina.
4. Can I get help to stay in my home instead of going to a facility?
   Yes. Ask about CAP/DA (Medicaid waiver), Personal Care Services, and PACE. If you don’t qualify for Medicaid, talk to your AAA about HCCBG services or private-pay options. See CAP/DA and PACE.
5. Are there any programs for home repairs like ramps and heating systems?
   Yes—NCHFA’s Urgent Repair Program and ESFR, Weatherization (NC DEQ), and USDA Section 504 in rural areas. See NCHFA URP, ESFR, Weatherization, and USDA Section 504.
6. Where can I get free or low-cost dental care?
   Start with Dental Lifeline Network (DDS) in NC and NC Missions of Mercy clinics. Also check the NC Association of Free & Charitable Clinics directory for dental sites.
7. How can I lower my property taxes?
   If you’re 65+ or disabled, ask your county tax office about the Homestead Exclusion, Circuit Breaker Deferment, or (for qualifying veterans) the Disabled Veteran’s Exclusion. See NC Department of Revenue – Property Tax Relief programs.
8. Do I get a discount on phone or internet service?
   Lifeline provides a monthly discount. The Affordable Connectivity Program ended for most households in 2024 unless renewed. Check the FCC ACP page and ask providers about low‑cost plans like Spectrum Internet Assist.
9. Who can help me pick a Medicare plan and avoid scams?
   SHIIP counselors provide free, unbiased help. They can also check your eligibility for Extra Help (Part D) and MSPs. Contact SHIIP (855‑408‑1212).
10. Where do I report elder abuse or a suspicious caregiver?
    If immediate danger, call 911. Otherwise, report to your county DSS Adult Protective Services. Learn signs and how to report at NC DHHS Adult Protective Services.

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Additional program details and official sources

• North Carolina Division of Aging & Adult Services (DAAS): Programs & provider directories (NC DHHS – Aging and Adult Services).
• Home and Community Care Block Grant (HCCBG): Funds many local senior services via AAAs (NC DHHS – HCCBG).
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program: Resident advocacy (NC DHHS – Ombudsman).
• SHIIP (Medicare counseling): NC Department of Insurance – SHIIP.
• Medicaid programs: NC Medicaid Beneficiaries; ePass application portal.
• Transportation: Find My Ride NC; NCDOT Public Transportation Division.
• Food help: Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP) – NC DHHS; SFMNP; Congregate & Home-Delivered Meals (NC DHHS).
• Housing repair: NCHFA URP; NCHFA ESFR; NC DEQ Weatherization; USDA Section 504.
• Energy help: LIEAP; Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) – both via NC DHHS.
• Phone/internet: Lifeline (NC DHHS) and Lifeline (USAC); ACP status (FCC ACP).
• Veterans: NC DMVA Housing Assistance; SSVF in NC (Volunteers of America Chesapeake); NC Heroes Fund.
• Dental: Dental Lifeline Network – NC; NC Dental Society Foundation – Missions of Mercy; NCAFCC – Clinics.
• Clinics: HRSA Find a Health Center; NCAFCC – Find a Clinic.
• Assistive tech: NC Assistive Technology Program (NC DHHS).
• Legal help: Legal Aid of North Carolina – Seniors; NC DOJ – Consumer Protection.
• Elder abuse: NC DHHS – Adult Protective Services.
• Disaster: ReadyNC (NCDPS).

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Table: Who to call first (by topic)

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Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Expect waitlists. Many housing and repair programs fill quickly. Apply early each year and re‑confirm your place on the list.
• Keep copies of everything. Store letters, applications, and names/dates of people you spoke with.
• Beware of fees. Legitimate benefit programs don’t charge you to apply. If someone demands payment upfront to “get you faster service,” it’s a red flag.
• Re‑evaluate annually. Medicare plans, property tax relief, and energy programs often require yearly action.
• Ask for reasonable accommodations. If you have a disability, agencies must provide accommodations (alternative formats, assistance completing forms, interpreter services).

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Disclaimer

We work to keep this guide accurate and up to date, but programs can change, close, or pause funding. Always confirm details with the official agency or program link provided here.

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Resources (official links)

• NC DHHS – Aging and Adult Services: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/aging-and-adult-services
• Area Agencies on Aging directory: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/aging-and-adult-services/area-agencies-aging
• NC Medicaid (beneficiaries): https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/beneficiaries
• NC ePass (apply for benefits): https://www.ncdhhs.gov/assistance/epass
• SHIIP (Medicare counseling): https://www.ncdoi.gov/shiip
• LIEAP (energy help): https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/energy-assistance/low-income-energy-assistance-lieap
• Crisis Intervention Program (CIP): https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/energy-assistance/crisis-intervention-program
• Lifeline in NC: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/county-staff-information/other-programs/lifeline-and-link-programs
• Lifeline (USAC): https://www.lifelinesupport.org
• FCC ACP status: https://www.fcc.gov/acp
• NCHFA Urgent Repair Program: https://www.nchfa.com/current-homeowners/repairing-your-home/urgent-repair-program
• NCHFA ESFR: https://www.nchfa.com/current-homeowners/repair-your-home/single-family-rehabilitation-program
• Weatherization Assistance (NC DEQ): https://deq.nc.gov/energy-climate/energy-efficiency/weatherization-assistance-program
• USDA Section 504 (NC): https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants
• Adult Care Homes: https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/providers/programs-services/long-term-care/adult-care-homes
• Personal Care Services: https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/providers/programs-services/long-term-care/personal-care-services
• CAP/DA: https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/providers/programs-and-services/long-term-care/community-alternatives-program-cap
• PACE: https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/providers/programs-services/long-term-care/program-of-all-inclusive-care-for-the-elderly
• Free & charitable clinics (NCAFCC): https://ncafcc.org/our-clinics/
• HRSA Health Centers: https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov
• Dental Lifeline Network – NC: https://dentallifeline.org/north-carolina/
• NC Missions of Mercy: https://www.ncdental.org/foundation/missions-of-mercy
• NC Assistive Technology Program: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/assistance/assistive-technology
• SNAP (Food & Nutrition Services): https://www.ncdhhs.gov/assistance/low-income-services/food-nutrition-services-food-stamps
• Congregate & Home-Delivered Meals: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/assistance/adult-services/nutrition-congregate-home-delivered-meals
• Find My Ride NC: https://findmyride.nc.gov
• HUD PHA contacts (NC): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/nc
• NC DMVA Housing for Veterans: https://www.milvets.nc.gov/services/housing-assistance
• SSVF (VOA Chesapeake – NC): https://www.voachesapeake.org/services/veteran-services/
• North Carolina Heroes Fund: https://www.ncheroes.org/apply-for-assistance/
• Legal Aid of North Carolina – Seniors: https://www.legalaidnc.org/what-we-do/civil-legal-services/senior-law-project
• NC DOJ Consumer Protection: https://ncdoj.gov/protecting-consumers/
• Adult Protective Services: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/assistance/adult-services/adult-protective-services-aps
• ReadyNC: https://www.readync.gov
• U.S. Census ACS data (S0103): https://data.census.gov

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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.