Utah Senior Assistance Programs, Benefits, and Grants (2026)
Senior Population: 415,749 (12.2%)
Male: 47.4%
Female: 52.6%
Median Age: 72.8
Disability: 31.1%
With Social Security Income: 86.8%
With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 4.5%
Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 8.2%
Data Source:Senior Benefits and Assistance Programs in Utah
Last updated:
If You Need Emergency Help
- Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.
- Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
- Dial 211 or visit the Utah 211 directory for urgent help finding food, shelter, utility help, or local services: Find help at 211 Utah.
- Elder abuse or neglect: Contact Utah Adult Protective Services (APS) to report concerns and get help: Utah Adult Protective Services.
- Domestic violence support and safety planning: Utah Domestic Violence Coalition – Get Help.
Key Takeaways
- Utah seniors can lower monthly costs through programs that help with healthcare (Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, SHIP counseling), housing (Section 8 vouchers, public housing), utilities (HEAT/LIHEAP, Weatherization), food (SNAP, Meals on Wheels, CSFP), and taxes (Circuit Breaker tax relief).
- Many programs have income and residency rules and may have waitlists (especially Section 8, home repairs). Apply early and have documents ready.
- Start locally: your Area Agency on Aging (AAA) will screen you for multiple programs and help you apply: Find your Utah AAA.
- Be cautious of scams. You never have to pay to apply for government benefits. Use official websites and phone numbers linked throughout this guide.
Why this matters and who this helps
Utah is home to a fast-growing older population. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (2023), roughly 12% of Utahns are age 65+ (see Table S0101). You can view the official table here: U.S. Census Bureau – Utah Age Profile (ACS S0101). This guide pulls together trustworthy, state-specific options to help you stretch your budget, remain independent, and get care when you need it.
Quick Help at a Glance
Use this table to jump straight to proven programs and how to apply.
| Category | Program | What it Does | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | Utah Medicaid (Aged 65+) | Covers medical care; options for long-term services at home or in facilities | Utah Medicaid – Eligibility & Programs |
| Medicare Help | State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) | Free, unbiased Medicare counseling | Utah SHIP (through DAAS) |
| Food | SNAP (Food Stamps) | Monthly funds to buy groceries | Apply for SNAP at Utah DWS |
| Meals | Meals on Wheels | Home-delivered meals for homebound seniors | Find your local AAA |
| Utilities | HEAT (LIHEAP) | Help paying heating/utility bills | Utah HEAT Program |
| Home Energy | Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | Free energy-saving upgrades | Utah Weatherization |
| Housing | Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) | Ongoing rent help; long waitlists common | HUD: Utah Housing Authorities |
| Repairs | USDA Section 504 | Grants/loans for critical home repairs (rural) | USDA 504 Repair in Utah |
| Taxes | Circuit Breaker & Abatement | Property tax credit/relief for low-income seniors | Utah Property Tax Relief |
| Phones/Internet | Lifeline (FCC) | Monthly phone/internet discount | Find Lifeline Providers |
Healthcare and Long‑Term Care
Medicaid for Seniors (Age 65+)
Utah Medicaid helps with doctor visits, prescriptions, hospital stays, and long-term care (at home or in a nursing facility) for eligible seniors. Many seniors qualify through “Aged, Blind, and Disabled” pathways.
- What to know:
- Income and asset limits apply and change annually.
- There are Medicaid “waivers” that help you get care at home instead of moving to a nursing home, but some have waitlists.
- Start here: Utah Medicaid – Programs & Eligibility
Key long-term care options include:
- Aging Waiver for Individuals Age 65+ (home- and community-based services).
- New Choices Waiver (helps people move out of nursing homes and back into the community).
- Nursing Home Medicaid (covers facility care if you meet requirements).
Learn more about home- and community-based services and waivers: Utah Medicaid – Long-Term Services and Supports
Medicare Help: Free Counseling (SHIP)
Medicare is complex. Utah’s SHIP program provides free, unbiased help with:
- Choosing between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage.
- Reviewing Part D drug plans and Extra Help eligibility.
- Understanding and enrolling in Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) that may pay Part A/B premiums and reduce costs.
Get local counseling through your Area Agency on Aging (AAA): Utah SHIP and AAA Directory
General info on Medicare Savings Programs: Medicare.gov – Get Help with Costs
Prescription Savings
- Medicare Part D Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) lowers drug premiums and co-pays if you qualify: Apply for Extra Help (SSA)
- Utah Drug Card (free, statewide) can reduce retail drug costs; show it at participating pharmacies: Utah Drug Card
Note: Discounts vary by medication. This is not insurance.
Dental, Vision, and Hearing
- Utah Medicaid may cover adult dental under certain eligibility groups; check your current benefits: Utah Medicaid – Dental Services
- Senior Charity Care Foundation provides reduced-cost dental and mobile vision clinics, and helps with hearing aids through partners: Senior Charity Care Foundation
- For veterans, see VA dental eligibility rules: VA Dental Benefits
Housing, Rent, and Home Repairs
Rental Help
- Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8): A federal program that helps pay monthly rent. You choose a unit that meets program rules. Waiting lists are common and may open/close without much notice. Find your local housing authority: HUD – Utah Public Housing Agencies
- Public Housing: Apartments managed by housing authorities with reduced rents for eligible tenants. Apply through local PHAs (same HUD link above).
Tip: Apply to multiple housing authorities if possible to increase your chances.
Home Repairs and Safety Modifications
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free energy-saving home improvements (insulation, sealing, safety checks). Prioritizes seniors: Utah Weatherization
- USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504): Grants (typically for age 62+) and low-interest loans for essential repairs and hazard removal in eligible rural areas: USDA 504 Repair Program
Reality check: Both programs can have backlogs. Apply early and be ready with proof of income, homeownership, and residence.
Property Tax Relief for Seniors
Utah offers several property tax options for low-income seniors. Programs are administered by your county but guided by the Utah State Tax Commission.
| Program | Who It Helps | What It Does | Where to Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circuit Breaker (Homeowner Credit) | Low-to-moderate income seniors | Annual credit reduces property tax | Utah Property Tax Relief – Circuit Breaker |
| Indigent/Hardship Abatement | Homeowners facing financial hardship | Partial tax forgiveness based on need | Property Tax Relief Programs |
| Tax Deferral for Seniors | Seniors with equity but limited income | Delays paying property tax until sale/estate | Property Tax Deferral |
| Renter’s Refund (if available in your county) | Low-income senior renters | Refund/credit recognizing rent includes tax | Check with your county assessor/treasurer via the link above |
Important: Income limits, age, and deadlines vary by county and can change. Always verify with your county assessor or treasurer’s office.
Food and Nutrition
| Program | Who It Helps | What You Get | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP (Food Stamps) | Low-income individuals/households | Monthly funds on EBT card to buy food | Apply at Utah DWS |
| Meals on Wheels | Homebound older adults | Hot or ready-to-heat meals delivered | Find your AAA |
| Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) | Eligible seniors (limited availability) | Vouchers for fresh produce from farmers | Ask your AAA; learn about SFMNP: USDA SFMNP |
| Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) | Low-income seniors 60+ | Monthly shelf-stable USDA foods; nutrition tips | Utah Food Bank – CSFP |
| Utah Food Bank Programs | Seniors needing groceries | Mobile pantry, home delivery (varies by area) | Utah Food Bank Programs |
Tip: If your budget is tight, apply for SNAP even if you think you might be slightly over income—deductions for medical expenses can help seniors qualify.
Utilities, Energy, and Communications
| Program | What It Covers | Notes | Where to Apply/Check |
|---|---|---|---|
| HEAT (Utah’s LIHEAP) | Help with heating/electric bills | Prioritizes seniors; apply each season | Utah HEAT |
| Weatherization Assistance (WAP) | Insulation, sealing, safety checks | Free energy efficiency upgrades; waitlists possible | Utah Weatherization |
| Dominion Energy HELP | Gas bill assistance for low-income households | Program availability can vary; ask utility and DWS | Dominion Energy Utah – Energy Assistance |
| Lifeline (FCC) | Discounted phone/internet | ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program) funding ended in 2024; Lifeline remains | Lifeline Support – Check Providers |
| Medical Baseline/Medical Needs | Extra energy for essential medical devices | Ask your utility about medical accommodations | Check your utility’s assistance page (e.g., Rocky Mountain Power, Dominion) |
Note: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program has ended due to a lapse in funding. Consider Lifeline and your provider’s senior/low‑income plans as alternatives. See updates from the FCC: FCC ACP Information.
Transportation
- Reduced Fare and Paratransit (UTA): Utah Transit Authority offers reduced fares for seniors and ADA paratransit services for eligible riders. Learn how to qualify: UTA Reduced Fare & Paratransit
- Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for Medicaid members: Rides to covered appointments if you qualify; coordinate through Utah Medicaid or your health plan: Utah Medicaid – Transportation
- Local senior ride programs: Many AAAs and counties offer rides for groceries/pharmacy/appointments. Start here: Find your local AAA
Tip: Book rides early—slots go fast. Ask about recurring ride scheduling for dialysis and physical therapy.
Financial Help, Cash Aid, and Employment Support
- Utah Department of Workforce Services (DWS): Screening for multiple benefits, job services for those who want to work part-time, and training options. Apply or manage benefits online: DWS – Apply for Assistance and general services: DWS Programs
- Community Development Block Grant (CDBG): City/county-managed grants for urgent needs (varies by location; often not direct cash). Check your city or county’s community development page. For local housing directories: HUD in Utah – Resources
Reality check: Direct “cash grants” are rare. Most help comes as reduced bills, vouchers, credits, or specific services (rent, food, utilities).
Caregiving, In‑Home Help, and Protection
| Program | Who It Serves | What It Provides | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Utah Caregiver Support Program | Family caregivers of older adults | Information, training, counseling, respite | Caregiver Support – DAAS |
| Home & Community-Based Services (Alternatives/HCBS) | Seniors needing help at home | Case management, personal care, homemaker services | Utah Medicaid – LTSS/HCBS |
| Adult Protective Services (APS) | Vulnerable older adults | Investigates abuse/neglect; safety planning | Report to APS |
| Long-Term Care Ombudsman | Residents of nursing/assisted living | Advocates for quality care and rights | Utah Ombudsman Program |
Tip: Ask your AAA about a home assessment. They can suggest modifications and services to help you stay independent.
Special Focus: Inclusive Resources
LGBTQ+ Seniors
- Utah Pride Center – SAGE Utah: Social programs, support groups, resource navigation for LGBTQ+ older adults: SAGE at Utah Pride Center
- National SAGE resources for LGBTQ+ elders: SAGE USA – Resources
Veteran Seniors
- Utah Veterans Homes (4 locations; five-star CMS ratings): Long‑term care for eligible veterans and spouses. Admissions and locations: Utah Veterans Homes
- Veteran Directed Care (Home & Community-Based): Helps veterans hire caregivers and manage their long‑term care budget at home: Veteran Directed Care (VA) and Utah info via local AAA: Southeastern Utah AAA – Aging Services
- VA Benefits & Health Care in Utah: Utah Department of Veterans & Military Affairs and VA Salt Lake City Health Care
Seniors with Disabilities
- Medicaid LTSS and waivers for in-home support and assistive services: Utah Medicaid LTSS
- Assistive Technology: Utah’s assistive tech programs, device loans, and home modification guidance are often coordinated via AAAs and community partners; start here: DAAS – Services for Seniors
- Paratransit and reduced fares: UTA Accessibility & Paratransit
Tribal and Native Elders
- Utah Division of Indian Affairs (connections to tribal governments and local services): Utah Division of Indian Affairs
- Older Americans Act Title VI (Nutrition & Supportive Services for Native Elders): Contact your tribal office and see federal program info: ACL – Title VI for Native Americans
- Indian Health Service (IHS) – find Utah-area facilities and elder care resources: IHS – Find Health Care
Rural Seniors
- USDA Home Repair (Section 504) grants/loans for health and safety repairs in rural areas: USDA 504 Utah
- Telehealth: Check your Medicare plan and local clinics for telehealth appointments if travel is difficult. Medicare telehealth basics: Medicare – Telehealth
- Library and Senior Center Networks: Many rural libraries and senior centers provide free internet, device help, and application assistance. Use 211 Utah to locate services: Search 211 Utah
Transportation, Nutrition, Utilities: How to Apply and What to Expect
What documents to gather
- Photo ID and proof of age.
- Social Security number.
- Proof of Utah residency (lease, utility bill).
- Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs).
- Bank statements (for Medicaid/waivers and some tax relief).
- Recent utility bills (for HEAT/WAP).
- Medical documentation if applying for disability-related services or NEMT.
Reality checks and tips
- Section 8 and some repair programs have long waitlists; apply to multiple agencies and check for list openings.
- HEAT (LIHEAP) typically opens seasonally; submit early in the application window.
- For SNAP, seniors can claim out-of-pocket medical costs to improve eligibility—tell your DWS worker about recurring expenses.
- For Medicaid waivers, keep copies of all forms and return calls quickly to keep your place on the list.
- Never pay anyone to “guarantee” approval. Use state and federal links in this guide.
Transportation and Medical Ride Options (Details)
- UTA Reduced Fare Cards require proof of age or eligibility; details and forms: UTA Reduced Fare
- Medicaid NEMT policy and scheduling vary by health plan. If you’re on Medicaid, call the number on your plan card or start here: Utah Medicaid – Member Information
- Veterans can ask VA social work for ride options to VA medical appointments: VA Salt Lake City – Transportation
Charities and Nonprofits Serving Utah Seniors
- Utah Food Bank: Groceries, home-delivered boxes, mobile pantries: Utah Food Bank Programs
- Salvation Army (shelter, food, emergency assistance; varies by location): Salvation Army Intermountain – Shelter and Housing
- Utah Non-Profit Housing Corporation: Affordable independent housing where rent is typically limited to a share of income: UNPHC
- Mission Health Services: Nonprofit long-term care communities: Mission Health Services
- Senior Charity Care Foundation (dental, vision, hearing aid support): SCCF Programs
Note: Specific eligibility and availability vary by county and funding. Contact organizations directly or reach out through 211 Utah.
Legal, Consumer Protection, and Scam Avoidance
- Free civil legal help for qualifying seniors: Utah Legal Services
- Medicare fraud and scams: Report to the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) – ACL
- Consumer protection (contracts, scams, telemarketing): Utah Division of Consumer Protection
Resources by Region (Area Agencies on Aging)
Your local AAA is often the best first call. They can screen you for multiple programs (Meals on Wheels, caregiver support, in-home help, SHIP Medicare counseling, etc.), and help you apply.
| Region/Area | Utah AAA | Counties Covered (examples) | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salt Lake Area | Salt Lake County Aging & Adult Services | Salt Lake County | Salt Lake County Aging & Adult Services |
| Northern Utah | Weber-Morgan, Davis, Bear River AAAs | Weber, Morgan, Davis, Box Elder, Cache, Rich | Find your AAA |
| Mountainland | Mountainland AAA | Utah, Wasatch, Summit | Mountainland AAA |
| Central & Southeast | Six County, Southeastern Utah AAAs | Juab, Millard, Piute, Sanpete, Sevier, Wayne; Carbon, Emery, Grand, San Juan | Find your AAA |
| Eastern Basin | Uintah Basin AAA | Daggett, Duchesne, Uintah | Find your AAA |
| Southwest | Five County AAA | Beaver, Garfield, Iron, Kane, Washington | Five County AAA |
For a complete, current list with phone numbers, use the statewide directory: Utah AAAs – Directory
Income Limits and Where to Check the Latest Numbers
Rules change yearly. Always check official pages for current limits.
| Program | Where to Check Current Eligibility/Income Limits |
|---|---|
| Medicaid (ABD, Waivers, Nursing Home) | Utah Medicaid – Eligibility |
| Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI) | Medicare.gov – Get Help with Costs |
| SNAP (Food Stamps) | DWS – Apply & Eligibility |
| HEAT (LIHEAP) | Utah HEAT Application Info |
| Property Tax Relief | Utah Property Tax Relief |
| Section 8/Public Housing | Contact your local housing authority: HUD – Utah PHAs |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Where should I start if I’m not sure what I qualify for?
A: Call your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). They can screen you for Meals on Wheels, caregiver help, SHIP Medicare counseling, in-home support, and more, and help with applications: Find your AAA. You can also dial 211 or visit 211 Utah for broader local help.
Q2: Is Medicaid only for very low-income seniors?
A: Medicaid has income and asset limits, but there are different pathways. Some waivers help you get services at home. Nursing home Medicaid has different rules than standard Medicaid. Check Utah Medicaid and talk with SHIP or AAA staff to see your options.
Q3: I’m on Medicare and my drug costs are high. What can help?
A: Ask about Extra Help through Social Security: Apply for Extra Help. Also, meet with Utah SHIP to compare Part D or Medicare Advantage drug plans: Utah SHIP via AAA.
Q4: What should I know about Section 8 in Utah?
A: Section 8 has long waitlists, and lists open/close periodically. Apply to multiple housing authorities for better odds: HUD – Utah Housing Authorities. Keep your contact info up to date so you don’t miss notices.
Q5: How do I get help with utility bills?
A: The HEAT program helps with heating/electric costs, and Weatherization can lower bills long term. Apply early each season: HEAT and Weatherization. Your gas or electric provider may have additional aid.
Q6: Are there programs to help with property taxes?
A: Yes. Utah offers Circuit Breaker credits, hardship abatements, and tax deferral for seniors. Rules differ by county. Start with the state overview and contact your county: Utah Property Tax Relief.
Q7: How do I get rides to medical appointments?
A: If you have Medicaid, ask about Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) through your plan: Utah Medicaid. UTA provides reduced fares and paratransit: UTA Reduced Fare. Many AAAs also coordinate rides.
Q8: What food help is there beyond SNAP?
A: Meals on Wheels (home-delivered meals), CSFP (monthly USDA foods), Utah Food Bank mobile pantries, and sometimes Senior Farmers’ Market vouchers. Start here: Find your AAA and Utah Food Bank Programs.
Q9: I’m caring for my spouse with dementia. Can I get a break?
A: The Utah Caregiver Support Program offers respite care, counseling, and training. Contact your AAA: Caregiver Support via DAAS.
Q10: The internet is expensive. Is ACP still available?
A: The Affordable Connectivity Program ended due to a funding lapse. You may still qualify for Lifeline for phone/internet discounts: Lifeline Support. Ask your provider about low-income senior plans.
Q11: Are there legitimate “grants” that give cash to seniors?
A: Direct cash grants are rare. Most help comes as bill assistance, vouchers, or services. Be wary of anyone asking for fees to apply for “guaranteed grants.” Use official links in this guide or dial 211.
Q12: How do I protect myself from scams?
A: Don’t share Medicare, Social Security, or bank info with unknown callers. Verify offers with your AAA or the Utah Division of Consumer Protection: Consumer Protection Utah. Report Medicare scams to the Senior Medicare Patrol: SMP Resource Center.
Additional Helpful Tables
Long‑Term Care and Caregiver Programs (Overview)
| Program | Setting | Key Services | Apply/Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aging Waiver (65+) | Home/Community | Personal care, homemaker, case management, respite | Utah Medicaid – LTSS |
| New Choices Waiver | Transition from facility | Services to move back home/community | Utah Medicaid – LTSS |
| Nursing Home Medicaid | Facility | Room/board and medical care | Utah Medicaid – Long-Term Care |
| Caregiver Support Program | Home | Respite, training, counseling | DAAS – Caregiver Support |
| Ombudsman | Facility | Resident rights advocacy | DAAS – Ombudsman |
Food Programs (Side-by-Side)
| Program | Eligibility Notes | Frequency | Where to Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP | Income-based; seniors can deduct medical expenses | Monthly | Apply via DWS |
| Meals on Wheels | Homebound seniors | Weekdays; varies by county | Find your AAA |
| CSFP | 60+ with low income | Monthly food box | Utah Food Bank – CSFP |
| SFMNP | 60+ with low income; limited vouchers | Seasonal | USDA SFMNP |
Sources and Official Links (Selected)
- Utah Department of Health & Human Services – Division of Aging & Adult Services (DAAS): DAAS Home
- Utah Medicaid (eligibility, LTSS, waivers): Utah Medicaid
- Utah DWS – Apply for benefits (SNAP, HEAT, more): DWS Apply
- HEAT (LIHEAP): HEAT Program
- Weatherization Assistance: Utah WAP
- HUD Utah (PHAs, vouchers): HUD – Utah
- Property Tax Relief: Utah State Tax Commission – Relief
- Utah Food Bank: Programs and CSFP
- Lifeline (FCC): Lifeline Support
- U.S. Census ACS (Utah seniors): ACS S0101 – Utah
- Utah Veterans: UDVMA and Veterans Homes
- Utah Legal Services: ULS
- 211 Utah: Find Help
Disclaimer
Program names, eligibility rules, and funding can change. Always confirm details with the official agency or program website linked in this guide. This article is for general information and is not legal, tax, 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: December 2025
- Sources Verified: December 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.