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

Last updated: August 2025

Key Takeaways

• Start with 2-1-1 for local help now, and use Ohio’s official portals to apply: Ohio Benefits (food/cash/Medicaid), Energy Help (utilities), and Area Agencies on Aging (in-home care and aging services).
• For health coverage, most seniors use Medicare. Low-income seniors may also qualify for Ohio Medicaid (ABD), Medicare Savings Programs, and home- and community-based waivers like PASSPORT.
• For housing stability, check HUD vouchers/public housing, Ohio Housing Locator (find affordable units), home repair grants (USDA Section 504), and utility support (HEAP, PIPP Plus, Weatherization).
• For food, apply for SNAP, add CSFP (monthly senior food box) and Senior Farmers’ Market coupons when available, and contact Meals on Wheels.
• Use free, unbiased help: OSHIIP for Medicare, Long-Term Care Ombudsman for care complaints, Pro Seniors for legal help.

---

If You Need Emergency Help

• Life-threatening emergency: Call 911
• Mental health or substance use crisis: Call or text 988 or chat via the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• Immediate local help (food, shelter, bills, transportation): Call 2-1-1 or visit the statewide directory via Ohio 2-1-1 (United Way)
• Risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation: Contact your county Adult Protective Services via the Ohio APS directory (ODJFS)
• Facing utility shutoff or no heat: Apply at EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov (HEAP, PIPP Plus, crisis)
• Homeless or at risk: Contact your local homeless system via Ohio 2-1-1 and review HUD’s Ohio resources at HUD Exchange – Ohio

---

Ohio Seniors at a Glance

• About 2.21 million Ohioans are age 65+ (18.8% of the population). Approximately 10.7% of seniors are below the federal poverty level, and 32.4% report a disability (ACS 2023). Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2023, Table S0101.

Reality check: Eligibility rules and funding change. Waitlists are common for housing vouchers and some in-home care programs. Apply early, submit complete documents, and stay in touch with the agency.

---

How to Use This Guide

• Find your need in the Quick-Start Table below.
• Use the official apply links and phone paths in each section.
• If you’re not sure where to start, call your Area Agency on Aging. They can screen you and connect you to multiple programs at once: Find your local Area Agency on Aging (Ohio Department of Aging)

---

Quick-Start Table: Where to Apply First

Note: Some state website URLs change over time. If a link doesn’t open, search the agency name and program on the agency’s site.

---

Money, Discounts, and Taxes

Golden Buckeye Card (discount program)

• What it is: A free statewide discount program at participating merchants for eligible older adults and people with disabilities.
• Who qualifies: Age 60+ or adults 18–59 with a qualifying disability.
• How to apply: Learn more and check participating merchants at the Ohio Department of Aging – Golden Buckeye page.

Reality check: Discounts vary by business. Ask the cashier or manager; discounts aren’t guaranteed everywhere.

Property Tax Relief: Homestead Exemption

• What it is: A reduction in property taxes on your primary home for qualifying seniors and people with disabilities.
• Who qualifies: Ohio residency, income limits apply, and age/disability requirements. Apply through your county auditor.
• Learn and apply: Ohio Department of Taxation – Homestead Exemption

Work and Training

• SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program): Paid, part‑time training for unemployed adults 55+ with low income. Start at Ohio SCSEP (Department of Aging) and see federal program details at the U.S. Department of Labor – SCSEP.
• Job search and re-employment: Visit OhioMeansJobs for career services and local centers.

---

Health Coverage and Long‑Term Care

Medicare (Primary coverage for most 65+)

• Parts A & B (Original Medicare): Hospital and medical insurance.
• Part D: Prescription drug plans.
• Medicare Advantage (Part C): Private plans that include Parts A and B, and often Part D; may add vision, hearing, dental, fitness, and limited transportation.
• Free counseling: OSHIIP – Medicare help from the Ohio Department of Insurance

Tip: Review drug plans every fall. Formularies, premiums, and pharmacies change yearly. OSHIIP can run plan comparisons for you.

Ohio Medicaid for Seniors (Aged, Blind, or Disabled – ABD)

• What it is: Medicaid coverage for low‑income seniors and people with disabilities; may add help paying Medicare premiums (Medicare Savings Programs) and cover long‑term care.
• Apply and learn: Ohio Medicaid – Aged, Blind or Disabled
• Medicaid Consumer Hotline: 1-800-324-8680

Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) for Older Adults

• PASSPORT Waiver: In‑home services (personal care, homemaker, meals, emergency response) to help you remain at home instead of a nursing facility. Start through your Area Agency on Aging: PASSPORT and HCBS (Ohio Department of Aging)
• Assisted Living Waiver: Helps pay for services in licensed assisted living communities (not room and board). Learn more at the Assisted Living Waiver (ODA).
• MyCare Ohio: Integrated Medicare/Medicaid plan for certain regions for people eligible for both. See MyCare Ohio (Ohio Medicaid).

Long‑Term Care Ombudsman

• Help with complaints and rights in nursing homes, assisted living, and in‑home services. Contact the Ohio Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program.

Mental Health and Substance Use

• For immediate help: Call or text 988.
• Find local treatment and support through the Ohio Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services.

Health Coverage Quick Comparison

Reality check: Waivers can have waitlists in some areas. Apply early and ask about interim services (e.g., home‑delivered meals, personal care through other funding) while you wait.

---

Food and Nutrition

• SNAP (Food Assistance): Monthly benefits on an EBT card. Apply at Ohio Benefits – SNAP. Learn more at ODJFS Food Assistance.
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Monthly shelf‑stable food box for low‑income seniors. See CSFP in Ohio (ODJFS).
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal coupons to buy fresh produce from participating farmers’ markets. Learn and apply through Ohio’s SFMNP.
• Meals on Wheels and Senior Dining: Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for home-delivered and congregate meal sites.
• Emergency food: Find foodbanks and pantries via Ohio Association of Foodbanks and 2‑1‑1.
• TEFAP (Emergency Food Assistance): Food distributions through partner agencies. See USDA TEFAP and check your local foodbank.

Food Programs at a Glance

Tip: If you’re close to qualifying, ask about medical and shelter deductions in SNAP. They can increase your benefit.

---

Housing, Home Repair, and Utilities

Finding Affordable Rentals

• Search affordable and senior-specific units at OhioHousingLocator.org (OHFA).
• HUD programs:
  • Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8): Rent subsidy with private landlords. Learn at HUD HCV overview and apply through your local PHA: Find Ohio HUD resources.
  • Public Housing: Income-based rent in public housing developments. See HUD Public Housing.

Reality check: Waitlists open and close. Apply to multiple PHAs and update your contact info.

Home Repair and Accessibility

• USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants)
  • Grants: Up to a set limit for very low-income homeowners age 62+ to remove health/safety hazards. Grants may need to be repaid if you sell within 3 years.
  • Loans: Very low-interest loans for very low-income homeowners (any age).
  • Learn how to apply in Ohio: USDA 504 Home Repair – Ohio
• Local programs: Many cities/counties offer rehab, accessibility, or weatherization work via Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) or HOME funds. Check your city/county housing department and your AAA for referrals.
• Hamilton County example (low-interest home improvement): Hamilton County Home Improvement Program (HIP)

Utility Bills and Home Energy

• HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program): Help with heating and cooling bills. Crisis programs may prevent shutoff or help restore service. Apply and manage at EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov.
• PIPP Plus (Percentage of Income Payment Plan): Income-based monthly payment plan for regulated electric and gas utilities. Enrollment and re‑verification are critical. Info at EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov – PIPP.
• Weatherization Assistance: Free energy-saving improvements (insulation, air sealing, HVAC/health & safety). Learn more at Ohio Home Weatherization Assistance Program.
• Water/wastewater assistance: Federal pandemic-era LIHWAP was time-limited. Some local utilities and community agencies offer help. Check 2‑1‑1 and your water utility’s assistance page.
• Phone/Internet: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) funding ended in 2024. You may still qualify for the Lifeline program (USAC) which discounts phone or internet service.

Housing & Home Utilities Options

Tip: For home repairs, gather proof of ownership, income, and photos of issues. Ask about other accessibility funds (e.g., ramps, grab bars) through your AAA or city housing office.

---

Transportation

• Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): Rides to approved medical visits for Medicaid members. Contact your Medicaid managed care plan or see Ohio Medicaid – NEMT.
• Area Agency on Aging rides: Essential trips (medical, groceries). Find options via your Area Agency on Aging.
• Mobility Managers: Help you find transportation that fits your area and needs. See the Ohio Mobility Management Program (ODOT).
• Paratransit and reduced fare: Check your local transit agency (e.g., COTA in Columbus, GCRTA in Cleveland, Metro in Cincinnati) for ADA paratransit and senior discounts.

Reality check: Book early. Bring your Medicaid ID if using NEMT. Ask about same‑day ride policies, which are often limited.

---

Dental, Vision, and Hearing

• Dental Lifeline Network (Ohio): Donated care for older adults and people with disabilities who can’t afford treatment. See Dental Lifeline Network – Ohio.
• Medicare: Original Medicare doesn’t cover routine dental, most vision care, or hearing aids. Some Medicare Advantage plans include limited benefits. Compare plans at Medicare Plan Finder.
• Eye care: Prevent Blindness, Ohio & regional programs often provide screenings/vouchers. Start with Prevent Blindness – Get Help.
• Hearing: Check local Lions Clubs for hearing aid assistance and ask your AAA about regional programs. For general low‑income phone access with amplified devices, see Lifeline (USAC).

Tip: Ask dental schools and community health centers about reduced‑fee services. Find health centers via Health Resources & Services Administration – Find a Health Center.

---

Legal Help, Consumer Protection, and Elder Rights

• Free legal help for seniors 60+: Pro Seniors Legal Helpline
• Elder abuse, neglect, exploitation: Report to county Adult Protective Services via APS Directory (ODJFS)
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Ohio LTC Ombudsman
• Consumer protection/scams: Ohio Attorney General – Consumer Protection and FTC – Report Fraud
• Wills, benefits appeals, housing disputes: Also check Ohio Legal Help for guides and referrals.

---

Veterans and Military-Connected Seniors

• State services: Contact the Ohio Department of Veterans Services and your County Veterans Service Commission for emergency financial help, claims assistance, transport, and more.
• VA health and benefits: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
• VA Aid & Attendance (A&A): A pension add‑on for veterans/surviving spouses who need help with daily activities. Learn at VA A&A and Housebound.
• Specially Adapted Housing (SAH): Grants to buy, build, or modify a home for service‑connected disabilities. Current grant limits change annually. See VA Disability Housing Grants.

Tip: Work with an accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO). They know the paperwork and can improve your chances.

---

Inclusive Supports

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• Inclusive healthcare and support: Equitas Health (multiple Ohio locations).
• National advocacy and local connections: SAGE – Services & Advocacy for LGBT Elders.
• Medicare help that’s inclusive: OSHIIP.

Seniors with Disabilities

• Medicaid ABD and HCBS waivers (PASSPORT, Assisted Living).
• Social Security disability programs: SSA – Disability Benefits.
• STABLE Account (Ohio ABLE): Tax‑advantaged savings for disability‑related expenses without losing benefits. See the STABLE Account – Ohio Treasurer.

Native/Tribal Elders in Ohio

• Ohio has no federally recognized tribes headquartered in-state, but Native elders living in Ohio can seek help from:
  • Your tribe’s elders program and health services.
  • Indian Health Service – Find Health Care (nearest facilities may be in neighboring states).
  • Urban community organization: Native American Indian Center of Central Ohio (NAICCO).
  • Title VI Native American aging programs directory (nationwide): ACL Title VI Directory.

Rural Seniors

• Use your local Community Action Agency for energy help, weatherization, and sometimes home repair: Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies – Find Your Agency.
• Broadband help and projects: BroadbandOhio (Department of Development).
• Mobile clinics/telehealth: Ask your AAA and HRSA health centers: Find a Health Center.

---

Transportation, Phones, and Tech Basics

• Medical rides: Ohio Medicaid – NEMT via your managed care plan.
• Local rides: Find your AAA and your local transit agency for senior fares/paratransit.
• Phone/Internet: Lifeline (USAC). Ask your carrier about senior plans. ACP has ended unless Congress renews funding.

---

Documents You’ll Usually Need

• Proof of identity and age (ID, birth certificate)
• Proof of Ohio residency (lease, utility bill)
• Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs)
• Bank statements and assets (if required)
• Medicare card and/or Medicaid info
• For housing: landlord info, past addresses, household members info
• For home repair: deed or proof of ownership, photos of issues

Tip: Keep a folder (paper or digital). Write down case numbers, names, and dates of calls.

---

Real-World Example

• “Mary, 76, on Social Security, struggling with high electric bills and stairs at home.” Steps:
  1. Applied for HEAP and PIPP at EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov.
  2. Called her AAA to request PASSPORT screening and ask about a ramp/Grab-bar programs: Find your AAA.
  3. Submitted a USDA Section 504 grant application for safety repairs: USDA 504 – Ohio.
  4. Got OSHIIP counseling to switch to a Medicare Advantage plan with better dental coverage: OSHIIP.

Results vary, but using multiple programs together often helps most.

---

Regional Resources in Ohio

Start with your Area Agency on Aging for your county: Find your local AAA (Ohio Department of Aging)

Examples by metro/county (not exhaustive; check 2‑1‑1 for more):

• Central Ohio (Columbus/Franklin County)
  • Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA)
  • Affordable housing search: OhioHousingLocator.org
  • Transit: COTA
• Northeast Ohio (Cleveland/Cuyahoga County)
  • Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging
  • Transit: GCRTA
• Southwest Ohio (Cincinnati/Hamilton County)
  • Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio
  • Home Improvement Program: Hamilton County HIP
  • Transit: Metro
• Akron/Canton/Summit/Stark
  • Direction Home Akron Canton
• Toledo/Lucas County
  • Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio
• Dayton/Montgomery County
  • Area Agency on Aging, PSA 2
• Rural and multi‑county areas
  • Community Action Agencies: Find your CAA (OACAA)
  • Foodbanks: Ohio Association of Foodbanks

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I get in‑home help so I can stay out of a nursing home?
   Start with your Area Agency on Aging to request an assessment for PASSPORT or other programs: Find your AAA. These programs look at both your care needs and your income/assets.
2. I can’t afford my Medicare plan or prescriptions. What can I do?
   Ask about Medicare Savings Programs (help with Part B premiums) and Extra Help (LIS) for Part D drugs. Contact Ohio Medicaid and get free counseling from OSHIIP. Apply for Extra Help at SSA – Extra Help.
3. Can renters get help with energy bills and weatherization?
   Yes. Renters can apply for HEAP and PIPP at EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov. Weatherization is available to renters with landlord permission: Ohio HWAP.
4. Is there help for home safety repairs?
   Yes. For very low‑income homeowners age 62+, check USDA Section 504 grants; others may qualify for low‑interest loans: USDA 504 – Ohio. Also ask your AAA and city/county housing programs about ramps and accessibility.
5. My landlord raised the rent. Can anyone help?
   Ask your local Public Housing Agency about vouchers and public housing: HUD – Ohio. Also search OhioHousingLocator.org. For legal advice, contact Pro Seniors and your local legal aid via Ohio Legal Help.
6. How do I get a ride to the doctor?
   If you have Medicaid, contact your managed care plan for NEMT: Ohio Medicaid. Otherwise, ask your AAA and local transit agency about senior rides and paratransit.
7. I need dentures and can’t afford them.
   See Dental Lifeline Network – Ohio and ask your AAA about community dental clinics and dental schools. Some Medicare Advantage plans provide limited dental benefits; compare at Medicare Plan Finder.
8. Do I qualify for Homestead property tax savings?
   Check age/disability and income rules and apply with your county auditor. Details: Ohio Homestead Exemption.
9. I got a shutoff notice. What’s fastest?
   Apply for crisis help at EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov and call 2‑1‑1 to locate emergency assistance. Have your account number and notice ready.
10. Who can help me review nursing home bills or complaints?
    Contact the Ohio Long‑Term Care Ombudsman. They can advocate for you.

---

Key Phone Numbers and Links (Save This)

---

Resources (Official Sources and Directories)

• Benefits applications:
  • Ohio Benefits Portal (SNAP, Medicaid, Cash)
  • Ohio Medicaid
  • EnergyHelp.Ohio.gov (HEAP, PIPP, crisis)
• Aging, care, and protection:
  • Ohio Department of Aging – Find Services
  • Ohio Long‑Term Care Ombudsman
  • Adult Protective Services (ODJFS)
• Housing:
  • OhioHousingLocator.org (OHFA)
  • HUD – Ohio
  • USDA Section 504 Home Repair – Ohio
• Food:
  • ODJFS Food Assistance
  • CSFP – Ohio
  • Ohio Association of Foodbanks
  • Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program
• Health:
  • OSHIIP – Medicare help
  • SSA – Extra Help (Part D)
  • Ohio MHAS
  • Find a Health Center (HRSA)
• Taxes and discounts:
  • Ohio Homestead Exemption (Taxation)
  • Golden Buckeye Program
• Veterans:
  • Ohio Department of Veterans Services
  • VA – Aid & Attendance
  • VA – Disability Housing Grants
• Inclusive resources:
  • Equitas Health
  • SAGE – LGBT Elders
  • STABLE Account (Ohio ABLE)
  • NAICCO
• Data/statistics:
  • U.S. Census Bureau – ACS 2023 (Ohio, Table S0101)

---

Disclaimer

Programs, amounts, eligibility rules, and links change over time. Always verify details directly with the agency or program using the official 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.