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

Senior Benefits and Assistance Programs in Vermont: 2025 Guide

Last updated: August 2025

This guide gathers trusted, Vermont-specific resources to help seniors find healthcare, housing, food, energy, transportation, legal help, and more. Links go to official government or well-established organizations.

Key Takeaways

• Call 2-1-1 for immediate referrals to shelters, food, heating help, and local services.
• For Medicaid, long-term care, 3SquaresVT (SNAP), and fuel assistance, start with the Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) Economic Services Division at 800-479-6151.
• Vermont’s five Area Agencies on Aging offer free Medicare counseling, Meals on Wheels, caregiver support, and case management via a single statewide Helpline: 800-642-5119.
• Choice of care and housing funds are limited in Vermont. Expect waitlists for Section 8 and some in-home supports; apply early and keep paperwork ready.
• Prescription help is available through Medicare Savings Programs and Vermont’s pharmacy programs for Medicare beneficiaries—see the table below.
• In winter, apply for Seasonal Fuel Assistance early; if you’re in crisis (heat is off, fuel tank nearly empty), ask for Crisis Fuel Assistance.

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If You Need Emergency Help

If you’re in danger, call 911. For non-urgent but urgent needs, use the contacts below.

Quick Emergency Contacts

Reality check: Funds for emergency housing, crisis fuel, and local charity aid can run out. Keep calling, ask about waitlists and alternatives, and document every contact.

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How to Use This Guide

• Start with the section that matches your most urgent need (heat, food, housing, healthcare).
• Each program includes who it’s for, what it covers, and how to apply, with links and phone numbers.
• If you’re stuck, call 2-1-1 or the statewide AAA Helpline (800-642-5119) to get a case manager.

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Vermont at a Glance

According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (2023), Vermont has a large and growing share of older adults (age 65+). Many live on fixed incomes and face winter heating costs and rural transportation gaps. Use the programs below to lower monthly expenses and access care.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 2023.

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Health Coverage, Long‑Term Care, and Prescription Help

Your Main Health Pathways in Vermont

• Medicare (age 65+ or qualifying disability) with free counseling from AAAs
• Medicaid for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (MABD) for low-income seniors
• Choices for Care (Long‑Term Care Medicaid) for in‑home, residential care, or nursing home level needs
• Prescription help via Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI) and Vermont’s pharmacy assistance for Medicare beneficiaries

Health Coverage & Prescription Help (Quick Compare)

Tips and realities:

• Medicaid and long‑term care have strict financial and clinical rules; expect document requests, assessments, and waitlists for some services.
• If you applied and were denied, ask for a written notice and consider an appeal. Vermont Legal Aid can help: Vermont Legal Aid – Health and Benefits.
• Keep a folder with your ID, Social Security award letter, income and bank statements, Medicare card, and any disability determinations.

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Dental and Vision

• Medicaid (MABD and Choices for Care) includes adult dental benefits, but coverage limits and provider access can be tight. Start with your Medicaid plan or DCF (800-479-6151).
• Donated Dental Services (DDS) connects seniors with volunteer dentists for complex care if you cannot afford treatment: Dental Lifeline Network – Vermont.
• Free and low‑cost clinics operate statewide; ask your AAA or see the Vermont Medical Society’s clinic listings (search “Vermont free and referral clinics”) or call 2‑1‑1 for local dental options.

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Food and Nutrition

You have several options to lower grocery costs and get healthy meals.

Food Assistance (At a Glance)

Reality check:

• Some meal routes have waiting lists. If you can pick up meals at a community site, you may get help faster.
• SNAP amounts depend on income and household size; if your medical costs are high, tell DCF—some expenses can increase your benefit.

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Housing, Rent Help, and Home Repairs

Housing help is in high demand statewide. Apply early, submit complete paperwork, and stay in regular contact.

Housing and Home Repair Programs (Summary)

Reality check:

• Section 8 has long waitlists. Apply wherever allowed statewide and check periodically for list openings.
• Some repair and accessibility programs have caps and long queues—apply early, and ask your AAA or town office about local funds or church/charity fix‑it groups.

If you’re facing homelessness now:

• Call 2‑1‑1 to connect with Coordinated Entry in your region.
• Ask DCF Economic Services (800-479-6151) about General Assistance emergency housing and crisis services.

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Energy, Utilities, and Winter Heating

Heating and electricity are major costs in Vermont’s long winters. There are several programs that can help.

Energy and Utilities Help (Quick Guide)

Note: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped new funding in 2024. Ask your provider about any remaining low‑income plans and apply for Lifeline if eligible.

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Transportation

• Elders & Persons with Disabilities (E&D) Transportation: Door-to-door rides for medical appointments, meal sites, shopping, and adult day programs. Learn more at E&D Transportation (VTrans).
• Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): If you have Medicaid, you can get rides to covered medical visits; call your local transit provider or ask DCF (800-479-6151).
• Public transit and ADA paratransit: Check your regional provider (for example, Green Mountain Transit in the Burlington area) for reduced fares and ADA rides. If unsure who serves you, dial 2‑1‑1.

Reality check: Rides often must be scheduled 48–72 hours ahead, and shared rides can take longer. Ask about pick‑up windows and return ride procedures.

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Money, Taxes, and Work

• Property Tax Credit and Renter Credit: Vermont offers a property tax credit based on household income for your primary residence, and a renter credit for income‑eligible renters. See the Vermont Tax Department’s pages for current rules and forms:
  • Property Tax Credit
  • Renter Credit
• Social Security Benefit Tax Exemption: Vermont exempts some or all Social Security benefits for eligible taxpayers based on filing status and income thresholds. Check current limits on the Tax Department’s page: Social Security exemption in Vermont.
• Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption: Qualifying disabled veteran homeowners (and some surviving spouses) can receive a property tax exemption; apply with your town by May 1. Details: Vermont disabled veterans property tax exemptions.
• Free Tax Help: AARP Foundation Tax‑Aide provides free tax preparation for most seniors. Find a site: AARP Tax‑Aide Locator.
• Looking for work or training? Vermont’s Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), operated by Vermont Associates for Training and Development, helps jobseekers 55+ with paid training: Vermont Associates for Training and Development.

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Caregiving, Protection, and Legal Help

• Family Caregiver Support Program (through AAAs): Respite, training, and help navigating services. Call 800-642-5119.
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman (Vermont Legal Aid): Resolves problems in nursing homes and residential care facilities: Long‑Term Care Ombudsman.
• Legal Help: Free or low‑cost assistance with healthcare denials, housing, consumer issues, and benefits:
  • Vermont Legal Aid
  • Legal Services Vermont
• Adult Protective Services (APS): Report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation: Report to APS.
• Scam and Consumer Help: The VT Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program helps with fraud, scams, and complaints: Consumer Assistance Program.
  Tip: Never pay with gift cards or wire transfers; hang up and call the official number on your statement or card.

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Inclusive Resources: Reaching Everyone

• LGBTQ+ Seniors: The Pride Center of Vermont offers programs, support groups, and referrals for LGBTQ+ elders: Pride Center of Vermont. Your AAA can also connect you to welcoming services (800-642-5119).
• Veterans:
  • State benefits: Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs can help with disability claims, pensions, and state programs.
  • Federal benefits: Aid & Attendance and Housebound for extra pension if you need help with daily activities or are largely homebound: VA Aid & Attendance and Housebound.
  • Healthcare: White River Junction VA Medical Center.
• Seniors with Disabilities:
  • Independent living services, benefits navigation, and home access: Vermont Center for Independent Living.
  • Assistive technology device loans and help: Vermont Assistive Technology Program.
• Native/Tribal Community Members: Vermont recognizes Abenaki tribes. For cultural resources and links to recognized tribal governments, see the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs. American Indian and Alaska Native elders may also be eligible for services through their tribes or the Indian Health Service; ask your healthcare provider or AAA about eligibility and referrals.
• Rural Seniors: Ask your AAA about home‑delivered meals, mobile food distributions, mail‑order prescriptions, telehealth options, and E&D rides. If internet access is limited, call 2‑1‑1 for phone-based screening and applications.

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Regional Contacts: Area Agencies on Aging (Statewide Helpline)

Call the Helpline at 800-642-5119 to be connected to your regional AAA for Meals on Wheels, Medicare counseling, caregiver support, case management, and more. Or visit the AAA that serves your county:

• Age Well (Addison, Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle): agewellvt.org
• Central Vermont Council on Aging (CVCOA): cvcoa.org
• Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging: nekcouncil.org
• Senior Solutions (Southeastern VT): seniorsolutionsvt.org
• Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging (SVCOA): svcoa.org

If you are unsure which AAA covers your town, call 800-642-5119.

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How to Apply: Simple Steps

1. Gather documents: ID, Social Security card, Medicare card, proof of Vermont residency, Social Security or pension award letters, bank statements, rent/lease or mortgage, and medical bills.
2. Call the right door:
   • Medicaid, 3SquaresVT, fuel help: DCF Economic Services, 800-479-6151
   • Medicare counseling and meals: AAA Helpline, 800-642-5119
   • Housing vouchers: VSHA rental assistance
3. Apply online when possible and keep copies of everything you submit.
4. Follow up: Call to confirm receipt, ask about next steps, and note the name of the worker you spoke with and the date.
5. If denied, read the notice. You can often fix missing items or appeal. Ask your AAA or Vermont Legal Aid for help.

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Helpful Extras

• Green Mountain Passport: Vermont residents age 62+ or veterans with service-connected disability can get a lifetime pass for state parks and historic sites at your town clerk’s office. Learn more via Vermont State Parks – Green Mountain Passport (look for Green Mountain Passport info) or ask your town clerk.
• Adult Day Services directory and respite options: Adult Day Services (DAIL)
• Transportation scheduling tip: Book rides 2–3 days in advance, keep your phone on for driver notifications, and confirm return rides before your appointment.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I get in‑home help so I can stay out of a nursing home?

• Ask about Choices for Care (Long‑Term Care Medicaid) through DCF (800-479-6151) and request an assessment. Also call the AAA (800-642-5119) about caregiver support, homemaker services, and respite. Expect eligibility checks and, at times, waitlists.

2. My prescription drug costs are high. What can reduce them?

• Check Medicare Part D plan options with AAA counselors. Ask DCF about Medicare Savings Programs and Vermont’s pharmacy assistance for Medicare beneficiaries: DVHA pharmacy benefits.

3. I can’t afford heat this winter. Where do I start?

• Apply early for Seasonal Fuel Assistance. If you’re out of fuel or facing a shut‑off, call 2‑1‑1 or DCF (800-479-6151) for Crisis Fuel Assistance.

4. What if I need a wheelchair ramp or bathroom modifications?

• Ask your AAA about funding via Choices for Care (if eligible) and contact the Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL) Home Access Program. USDA 504 grants can help homeowners 62+ with health/safety repairs: USDA Section 504.

5. How do I get dental care if no dentist near me takes Medicaid?

• Call your plan and AAA for updated providers, and check the Dental Lifeline Network – Vermont for donated care. Ask 2‑1‑1 about free/low‑cost clinics in your area.

6. The Section 8 waitlist is long—what else can I do?

• Apply everywhere you can in Vermont, consider HomeShare options (HomeShare Vermont), and ask your AAA about local subsidized senior housing and SASH buildings. Keep your application info current to avoid being dropped.

7. Who can help me sort out Medicare choices?

• Call the statewide AAA Helpline (800-642-5119) for free, unbiased counseling (SHIP).

8. Where can I get rides to the doctor if I don’t drive?

• If you have Medicaid, ask about NEMT rides through your transit provider. Otherwise, ask your AAA about E&D rides: VTrans E&D. Schedule rides 2–3 days ahead.

9. I live on Social Security alone. Can I reduce my property taxes or rent?

• See the Property Tax Credit and Renter Credit. The AAA can also help you check eligibility.

10. Who protects residents in nursing homes?

• The Long‑Term Care Ombudsman at Vermont Legal Aid: Contact the Ombudsman.

11. How do I report elder abuse or financial exploitation?

• Contact Adult Protective Services. If it’s an emergency, call 911.

12. I lost my EBT card. What should I do?

• Call DCF Economic Services at 800-479-6151 to report it and request a replacement. You can also check your balance and transactions through your EBT account.

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Resource Directory (Selected)

• Statewide Helplines
  • Vermont Area Agencies on Aging Helpline: 800-642-5119
  • DCF Economic Services (benefits): 800-479-6151
  • Vermont 2-1-1: vermont211.org
• Health and Benefits
  • MABD (Medicaid for seniors/disabled): DVHA – MABD
  • Choices for Care: DAIL – Choices for Care
  • Medicare counseling: Vermont AAAs – Medicare info
• Food
  • 3SquaresVT: DCF – 3SquaresVT | Apply on MyBenefits
  • Meals and nutrition: Vermont AAAs – Meals
  • CSFP: Vermont Foodbank – CSFP
  • Crop Cash: NOFA-VT Crop Cash
• Housing & Repairs
  • VSHA Section 8: Rental assistance (VSHA)
  • VHIP (ACCD): Vermont Housing Improvement Program
  • HomeShare Vermont: homesharevermont.org
  • SASH: sashvt.org
  • USDA Home Repair (Section 504): USDA VT – 504
  • Weatherization: DCF – Weatherization
• Energy & Utilities
  • Fuel Assistance: DCF – Fuel Assistance
  • Crisis Fuel: Call 2‑1‑1 or DCF (800-479-6151)
  • GMP assistance: Green Mountain Power – Assistance
  • Lifeline: lifelinesupport.org
• Legal and Protection
  • Vermont Legal Aid: vtlegalaid.org
  • Legal Services Vermont: legalservicesvt.org
  • Adult Protective Services: Report abuse/neglect/exploitation
  • Consumer Assistance Program: VT Attorney General – CAP
• Veterans
  • Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs: veterans.vermont.gov
  • VA Aid & Attendance: va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound
  • White River Junction VA Medical Center: Facility page
• LGBTQ+
  • Pride Center of Vermont: pridecentervt.org

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Disclaimer

Program details, income limits, phone numbers, and web addresses can change. Always confirm with the official agency or organization before applying. This guide is for information only and is not legal or financial advice.

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About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.