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

Key Senior Statistics in Texas (65 and over)
Senior Population: 4,194,990 (13.8%) Senior Population: 4,194,990 (13.8%)
Male: 45.2% Male: 45.2%
Female: 54.8% Female: 54.8%
Median Age: 72.9 Median Age: 72.9
Disability: 35.6% Disability: 35.6%
With Social Security Income: 85.3% With Social Security Income: 85.3%
With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 10.2% With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 10.2%
Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 12.3% Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 12.3%
Data Source: Data Source:
Data is taken from American Community Survey 2023. Please check our detailed page about Senior Statistics of Texas for more data and information.

Last updated: August 2025

Key Takeaways

  • Start with safety: if you’re in danger, call 911; for a mental health crisis, call 988; for quick referrals to food, housing, and bills help, call 2-1-1 or visit 2-1-1 Texas.
  • Most Texas benefits for seniors flow through three places: Your Texas Benefits (state benefits), your local Area Agency on Aging (caregiver support, Medicare help, meals), and your city/county or utility providers (rent, home repair, and bill discounts).
  • Help exists for rent (Section 8 and affordable apartments), home repairs (USDA grants, Weatherization), food (SNAP and Meals on Wheels), healthcare costs (Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, Extra Help), utilities (CEAP), transportation (free medical rides for Medicaid members), and property tax relief (Over‑65 exemptions and deferrals).
  • Expect waitlists for housing vouchers and some home repairs. Apply early and get on lists; ask for local alternatives while you wait.
  • Use official sources, keep copies of paperwork, and watch for scams. If someone asks for fees to “guarantee” benefits, it’s a red flag.

If You Need Emergency Help

  • Call 911 for any life-threatening emergency.
  • Mental health or emotional crisis: call or text 988 or use the chat at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/
  • Abuse, neglect, or exploitation (including in nursing homes): report to Texas Adult Protective Services 24/7 at 1-800-252-5400 or online at the Texas Abuse Hotline: https://www.txabusehotline.org/ (Texas Department of Family and Protective Services)
  • Quick referrals to food, shelter, bill help: call 2-1-1 or visit 2‑1‑1 Texas: https://www.211texas.org/
  • Eviction or homelessness concerns: find shelter via HUD’s Find Shelter: https://www.hud.gov/findshelter and call 2‑1‑1 for local Continuum of Care contacts.

How to Use This Guide

This guide organizes Texas help by need: money and food, housing and repairs, healthcare, utilities, transportation, legal protection, and taxes. For each, you’ll see what help covers, who it’s for, what’s hard, and where to apply (with links to official sources).

Tip: Create a folder with your ID, Social Security number, proof of Texas address, income, bank statements, rent/mortgage, and medical bills. You’ll need these for most applications.


Quick-Start Directory (Apply Here First)

Need Best first stop What to do
State benefits (SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare Savings, caregivers) Your Texas Benefits (Texas Health & Human Services) Apply online at Your Texas Benefits: https://www.YourTexasBenefits.com/ or call 2‑1‑1
Medicare counseling & caregiver support Area Agency on Aging (AAA) Find your AAA via 2‑1‑1 Texas: https://www.211texas.org/ or Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov/
Rent vouchers & affordable apartments TDHCA & local housing authorities See TDHCA Section 8: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/section-8/ and HUD PHA contacts: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
Home repairs & weatherization USDA Rural Development; TDHCA WAP USDA Section 504 (62+ grants) in Texas: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx and Weatherization: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/
Utility bills TDHCA CEAP; your city utility CEAP overview: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/ceap/ plus your local utility’s discount program
Meals Meals on Wheels Texas; TDA grants Find Meals on Wheels: https://mealsonwheelstexas.org/ and Texas Department of Agriculture home-delivered meal grants: https://www.texasagriculture.gov/GrantsServices/Grants/HomeDeliveredMealGrant.aspx
Legal help Texas legal aid network Lone Star Legal Aid: https://www.lonestarlegal.org/ • Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas: https://internet.lanwt.org/ • Texas RioGrande Legal Aid: https://www.trla.org/

Sources: Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA).


Texas by the Numbers (context)

Reality check: Program limits and enrollment periods change every year. Always confirm current rules on the official program pages linked below.


Money and Food Help

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and TSAP (Simplified SNAP for Seniors)

Meals on Wheels & Home-Delivered Meals

Cash Help (limited): TANF for Kinship Caregivers

  • What it does: Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) can help if you’re a grandparent or relative raising a child.
  • Who qualifies: Families with children and low income; seniors qualify only if caring for an eligible child.
  • Where to apply: TANF via Your Texas Benefits: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/financial/cash

Property Tax Savings for Texans 65+

Phone & Internet Discounts

  • Lifeline: Discount on phone or internet service for low-income households. Check eligibility and apply: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
  • Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): Federal funding ended in 2024. Some providers offer their own low-cost plans—ask your provider for “senior” or “low-income” plans.

Housing and Rent Help in Texas

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and Public Housing

  • What it does: Vouchers help pay a portion of your rent in private apartments; public housing offers subsidized units.
  • Who qualifies: Income-based; seniors and people with disabilities often have priority.
  • Where to apply:
  • Reality check: Waitlists can be long or closed. Get on multiple lists, including smaller cities.

Affordable Apartments (No Voucher Needed)

  • What it does: Apartments built with the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) offer below-market rents; many have 55+ or 62+ buildings.
  • Where to search:
  • Tip: Ask managers about “income limits,” “senior set-asides,” and current availability.

Section 811 Project Rental Assistance (PRA)

  • What it does: Rental assistance for people with disabilities linked to long-term services, including some seniors with disabilities.
  • Administered by TDHCA with HHSC partners. Learn more at TDHCA’s Section 811 PRA: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/section-811-pra/
  • Reality check: Limited properties and strict eligibility. Your local AAA or ADRC can help you navigate referrals.

Homelessness Prevention and Emergency Shelter

Housing Programs Snapshot

Program What it covers Who it helps Where to apply/check
Section 8 HCV Pays portion of rent in private units Low-income households, priority often for seniors/disabled TDHCA HCV (limited): https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/section-8/ and local PHAs: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
Public Housing Subsidized units owned by housing authorities Low-income seniors/households Your local housing authority (via HUD PHA contacts)
LIHTC Apartments Reduced rents in qualified properties Income-eligible tenants; many 55+ or 62+ TDHCA housing search: https://hrc-ic.tdhca.state.tx.us/housing_resource_center/
Section 811 PRA Rent help tied to services for disabilities Low-income with qualifying disability TDHCA PRA: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/section-811-pra/
Property Tax Relief (65+) Exemption and deferral options Homeowners 65+ Texas Comptroller overview: https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/exemptions/

Home Repairs, Accessibility, and Weatherization

USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504)

  • What it does: Grants up to 10,000forverylow−incomehomeownersage62+toremovehealth/safetyhazards.Loansupto10,000 for very low-income homeowners age 62+ to remove health/safety hazards. Loans up to 40,000 may be available at low interest.
  • Key rules: Home must be your primary residence; repayment required if the home is sold within three years (for grants).
  • Where to apply: USDA Texas program page and local offices: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

  • What it does: No-cost energy-saving upgrades (insulation, sealing, HVAC tune-ups) to lower utility bills.
  • Who qualifies: Income-based; priority to seniors and people with disabilities.
  • Where to apply: TDHCA WAP page (find your local provider): https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/

Habitat for Humanity Texas and Rebuilding Together

City and County Programs

  • Larger cities often run home repair programs for low-income seniors (funded by HUD’s CDBG/HOME). Search your city’s “Neighborhood Services” or “Housing and Community Development” webpage, or dial 2‑1‑1 for local programs.

Home Repair and Weatherization at a Glance

Program Typical help Senior priority Where to start
USDA Section 504 (62+) Health/safety repairs; small grants Yes (62+) USDA Texas Section 504: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx
Weatherization (WAP) Insulation, air sealing, minor HVAC Priority to seniors/disabled TDHCA WAP providers: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/
Habitat for Humanity Critical repairs, ramps, roofs (varies by affiliate) Often Habitat Texas affiliates: https://habitattexas.org/find-your-local-affiliate/
Rebuilding Together Safety/accessibility repairs Often Apply: https://rebuildingtogether.org/apply
City/County CDBG/HOME Roof, plumbing, accessibility (varies) Often Call 2‑1‑1 or see your city/county housing page

Reality check: Funds are limited and seasonal. Apply early each year and ask to be notified when lists open.


Healthcare and Long‑Term Care

Medicare Counseling (Free, Unbiased)

Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities (MEPD) & STAR+PLUS

PACE (Program of All‑Inclusive Care for the Elderly)

  • What it does: All-in-one Medicare/Medicaid program delivering medical care, adult day services, and home supports for frail seniors who meet nursing home level of care but can live safely in the community.
  • Where to check availability: Medicare’s PACE finder: https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/program-of-all-inclusive-care-for-the-elderly-pace
  • Reality check: Service areas are limited. Transportation is included if you enroll.

Help with Medicare Costs

Dental, Vision, and Hearing

Mental Health and Substance Use

Healthcare Cost Helpers (Summary)

Help What it covers Where to apply
MEPD Medicaid (65+) Health coverage; may include LTSS Your Texas Benefits Medicaid (MEPD): https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/medicaid-chip-programs-services/programs-children-adults-disabilities/medicaid-elderly-people-disabilities
STAR+PLUS HCBS In‑home services for nursing home level of care Apply via MEPD; HHSC will assess
Medicare Savings Programs Medicare Part A/B premiums and cost-sharing Via Your Texas Benefits: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicare
Extra Help (Part D) Prescription drug savings Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/
PACE All-in-one care with supports & transport Medicare PACE finder: https://www.medicare.gov/
HICAP/SHIP Free Medicare counseling HHSC Medicare info: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicare

Transportation

Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

Public Transit and Senior/Paratransit Services

  • Find your local rural or city transit provider (reduced fares, paratransit, dial‑a‑ride): Texas Department of Transportation’s public transportation resources: https://www.txdot.gov/ (search “public transportation provider” or call your city transit info line)
  • Ask your AAA about volunteer driver programs and mileage reimbursement options for seniors.

Utility and Water Bill Help

Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)

  • What it does: Helps pay electric and gas bills, deposits, and resolves disconnections for eligible households. Includes education to lower future bills.
  • Where to apply: TDHCA CEAP overview and local providers: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/ceap/
  • Tip: If you’re behind, call your utility and ask for a “medical critical care” designation (with doctor note) and payment plan options.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

  • See Home Repairs section above. Weatherization can reduce your bill long term.

Water Bill Help

Utility Help Options

Program/Provider What it covers Where to apply
CEAP (TDHCA) Electric/gas bills, crisis help, deposits https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/ceap/
WAP (TDHCA) Efficiency upgrades to lower bills https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/
Austin Energy & Austin Water Bill discounts, Plus 1 emergency aid https://austinenergy.com/ae/residential/rates/low-income-programs
CPS Energy (San Antonio) Bill discounts, emergency aid https://www.cpsenergy.com/en/my-home/savenow/rebates-programs/assistance-programs.html
Lifeline (phone/internet) Monthly discount on service https://www.lifelinesupport.org/

Reality check: Fund cycles open/close. If a program is “out of funds,” ask when to reapply and what backup options exist (payment plans, medical flags).


Legal Help, Consumer Protection, and Long‑Term Care Rights


Inclusive Resources

LGBTQ+ Seniors

  • Coalition for Aging LGBT (DFW-based): housing guidance, social connection, provider training; LGBT‑Friendly Senior Housing Guide and events: https://www.cfa.lgbt/
  • SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline (general support): https://www.sageusa.org/ (Call 877‑360‑5428)
  • Use your AAA for local inclusive services; ask about nondiscrimination policies and LGBTQ+ cultural competence.

Veteran Seniors

  • Texas Veterans Commission (TVC): Claims assistance, employment support, and the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) grants to local nonprofits (repairs, financial aid, transportation, mental health): https://www.tvc.texas.gov/
  • VA Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits: Increased pension for veterans/spouses who need help with daily activities or are mostly homebound: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
  • VA Health Care for Older Veterans: Geriatrics, long-term care, home- and community-based services: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/
  • Homeless or at risk: National Call Center for Homeless Veterans (24/7): 877‑424‑3838

Seniors with Disabilities

Tribal Resources (Texas)

Texas has three federally recognized tribes. Members may access tribal and federal programs:

Healthcare: Indian Health Service (IHS) and tribal clinics—find IHS locations and eligibility info: https://www.ihs.gov/

Housing: HUD Office of Native American Programs (Southern Plains) supports tribal housing authorities and programs: https://www.hud.gov/codetalk

Tip: Tribal elders should also apply for statewide programs like SNAP, CEAP, and Medicaid through Your Texas Benefits; tribal healthcare does not block state benefits.

Rural Seniors

  • Community Action Agencies deliver CEAP, WAP, and some local services in rural counties; find providers on TDHCA program pages (CEAP/WAP) or call 2‑1‑1.
  • Rural transit (demand-response rides) is available in every county—call your county transit provider through 2‑1‑1.
  • Telehealth: Medicare and many Medicare Advantage plans cover telehealth visits—ask your doctor and plan for options if travel is hard.

Resources by Region (Selected)

Region/Metro Area Agency on Aging Website Phone
Austin (Capital Area) Capital Area AAA https://www.capcog.org/divisions/area-agency-on-aging/ 512‑916‑6062
Dallas County Dallas Area Agency on Aging https://www.ccadvance.org/older-adults/area-agency-on-aging/ 214‑871‑5065
Fort Worth (Tarrant) Area Agency on Aging of Tarrant County https://www.unitedwaytarrant.org/our-work/older-adults/ 817‑258‑8000
Houston/Harris County Harris County Area Agency on Aging https://www.houstontx.gov/health/Aging/ 832‑393‑4301
San Antonio (Bexar) Bexar Area Agency on Aging https://www.aacog.com/aaad 210‑477‑3275
El Paso Rio Grande Council of Governments AAA https://www.riocog.org/area-agency-on-aging 915‑533‑0998
Lower Rio Grande Valley Lower Rio Grande Valley AAA (LRGVDC) https://www.lrgvdc.org/aaa.html 956‑682‑3481
Panhandle/Amarillo Area Agency on Aging of the Panhandle https://www.theprpc.org/Programs/AreaAgencyOnAging/ 806‑372‑3381
East Texas/Tyler Area Agency on Aging of East Texas https://www.etccog.org/area-agency-on-aging 903‑218‑6508

For all other regions, use 2‑1‑1 Texas (https://www.211texas.org/) or Eldercare Locator (https://eldercare.acl.gov/) to find your AAA and local providers.


How to Apply (and What to Gather)

  • Documents to have ready:
    • Photo ID and Social Security number
    • Proof of Texas address (lease, utility bill)
    • Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs) and bank statements
    • Medical expenses (for SNAP medical deductions; Medicare/Medicaid programs)
    • Rent/mortgage statement and utility bills
    • VA documents (if applicable)
  • Where to apply online:
  • Tips:
    • Save confirmation numbers and take screenshots.
    • Ask for “reasonable accommodations” if you need help due to disability (extra time, help completing forms).
    • If denied, request the reason in writing and ask how to appeal or reapply with missing documents.

Common Reality Checks (What’s Hard—and Workarounds)

  • Housing vouchers: Waitlists can be years long. Apply to multiple PHAs (including smaller cities) and look for LIHTC senior apartments as a backup.
  • Home repair grants: Funding windows open and close. Get on interest lists, reapply each year, and ask churches/charities for stopgap fixes.
  • Medicaid HCBS: Functional eligibility is strict. If you’re turned down, ask your AAA about other in‑home supports, caregiver programs, and PACE.
  • Utilities: CEAP funds may run out in late summer. Ask for a medical critical care flag, budget billing, and city-funded programs.
  • Paperwork: Small mistakes cause delays. Double-check signatures, dates, and income totals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Is there “general cash assistance” for seniors in Texas?
    Texas does not have a statewide “general assistance” cash program for seniors. Cash help is limited, but SNAP, CEAP (utility help), property tax exemptions/deferrals, and Medicare cost‑savers can free up money. If you’re raising grandchildren, TANF may help: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/financial/cash
  2. How do I get on a Section 8 waitlist?
    Find and apply through your local housing authority. Many lists open briefly; check monthly. Start with HUD’s PHA directory: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts and TDHCA’s HCV: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/section-8/
  3. Can I get help even if I own my home?
    Yes. Homeowners can get CEAP utility help, Weatherization, USDA Section 504 grants (62+), and property tax exemptions/deferrals. See CEAP: https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/ceap/ and USDA Section 504: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx
  4. I’m over income by a little. Should I still apply?
    Yes. Medical expenses and other deductions (for SNAP) and higher limits for certain programs can change eligibility. Apply and let the agency determine. SNAP/TSAP info: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/food/snap-food-benefits
  5. How do Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help work?
    They reduce or eliminate Medicare premiums and drug costs if your income/resources fit current limits. Learn and apply via HHSC (MSP): https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicare and Extra Help via Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/
  6. I need in‑home help but don’t want a nursing home. What are my options?
    Ask about STAR+PLUS HCBS (if you meet medical and financial rules) and PACE in your area. Start with MEPD Medicaid: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/medicaid-chip-programs-services/programs-children-adults-disabilities/medicaid-elderly-people-disabilities and PACE finder: https://www.medicare.gov/
  7. Where can I get free, unbiased Medicare advice?
    Texas HICAP/SHIP via your Area Agency on Aging: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicare or https://www.tlsc.org/hicap
  8. Who can help me avoid scams?
    Texas Attorney General Consumer Protection: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection and your AAA’s Benefits Counselors can explain common Medicare and benefits scams.
  9. How do I report abuse in a facility or at home?
    Call APS at 1‑800‑252‑5400 or the Texas Abuse Hotline: https://www.txabusehotline.org/. For nursing home/assisted living issues, contact the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/aging/long-term-care/long-term-care-ombudsman
  10. Are there programs for LGBTQ+ elders or veterans?
    Yes. See Coalition for Aging LGBT: https://www.cfa.lgbt/ and Texas Veterans Commission: https://www.tvc.texas.gov/, plus VA Aid & Attendance: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/

Resources (Official and Trusted)


Disclaimer

Program details, funding, and eligibility rules change. Always verify information with the official agency or program linked 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.