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

Senior Benefits and Assistance Programs in Virginia

Last updated: August 2025

This guide pulls together the most useful help for older adults in Virginia: healthcare, housing, food, utilities, transportation, legal aid, caregiver help, and more. Links go straight to official agencies whenever possible.

Virginia is home to about 1.5 million adults age 65+ (about 17% of the population, per 2023 American Community Survey). Needs vary widely across the Commonwealth, so we include statewide programs plus local resources you can actually use.

Key Takeaways

• Apply for multiple benefits in one place through Virginia’s CommonHelp portal and your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA).
• For healthcare, start with Medicare (65+) and see if you also qualify for Virginia Medicaid or Medicare Savings Programs to lower costs.
• For housing, look at Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8), HUD Section 202 senior apartments, and home repair programs like USDA 504 and Virginia’s EHARP.
• For utilities, Virginia’s Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers fuel, crisis, and cooling help. Dominion Energy’s EnergyShare and Appalachian Power assistance can help too.
• For food, use SNAP, Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, and Meals on Wheels through your AAA.
• Caregivers can apply for Virginia’s Respite Voucher (often up to $400) and get Dementia resources through Dementia Capable Virginia.
• If you’re a veteran, check VA health, pensions, and Aid & Attendance for in‑home care support.

If You Need Emergency Help

• Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.
• Mental health crisis: Dial or text 988 (24/7) or visit 988lifeline.org.
• Adult abuse/neglect (including self‑neglect): Adult Protective Services Hotline 1-888-832-3858 (24/7). See Virginia APS at https://www.dss.virginia.gov/family/aps.cgi
• No heat/electric shutoff, no food, or urgent shelter: Call 2-1-1 or visit 211virginia.org for immediate local referrals.
• Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for veterans: Dial 988, then press 1, or chat at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net
• Eviction or housing crisis: Virginia Eviction Legal Helpline 1-833-NOEVICT (1-833-663-8428) — https://www.evictionhelpline.org
• Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222.

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How to Apply and Where to Start

Use these “front doors” to connect with multiple programs:

Tip: Create a folder with your photo ID, Social Security number, proof of Virginia residency, proof of income and assets, current bills, lease/mortgage, and medical insurance cards. Most programs ask for these.

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Healthcare and Long‑Term Care

Medicare (age 65+ or disability)

• Medicare is federal health insurance. Learn benefits and costs at Medicare.gov: https://www.medicare.gov/
• Get free, unbiased help choosing plans and drug coverage through Virginia’s VICAP: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm or 804‑662‑9333.

Virginia Medicaid for Older Adults

Medicaid can help with doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, nursing homes, and Home & Community‑Based Services (HCBS). Income and asset limits apply.

• Apply or check eligibility at CommonHelp: https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/
• Medicaid member info: https://www.coverva.org/ and https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/
• CCC Plus (Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus) covers long‑term services at home or in facilities for eligible seniors: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/ccc-plus/

Reality check: Medicaid rules are detailed. If you’re near the income/asset cutoff, ask about “Medically Needy/Spenddown” options and Qualified Medicare Beneficiary programs that can pay Medicare premiums and cost sharing. Get help from your AAA or VICAP.

Long‑Term Care Ombudsman

If you have concerns about care in a nursing home or assisted living, call the Virginia Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program. It’s free and confidential: https://www.elderrightsva.org/

Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (Medicaid)

If you have Medicaid and need rides to covered medical appointments, you can get NEMT. Learn how to schedule: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/non-emergency-medical-transportation-nemt/

Healthcare at a glance

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Income, Cash, and Tax Relief

Social Security, SSI, and SSDI

• Apply or manage benefits at Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/
• SSI can help very low‑income seniors 65+. Details and eligibility: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/

Auxiliary Grants (AG)

If you are older, blind, or disabled and living in an assisted living facility or adult foster care, Virginia’s Auxiliary Grants can help pay for care if you qualify. Learn more: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ag/

General Relief (local, limited)

Some localities offer General Relief (small, short‑term help). Availability varies by county/city. See program basics: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/gr/

Reality check: GR is not available everywhere and funds are limited. Call your local DSS or 2‑1‑1 to check.

Property Tax Relief (local)

Many localities offer property tax relief or deferrals for older adults with limited incomes. Check with your local Commissioner of the Revenue or Treasurer. Examples:

• Fairfax County Tax Relief for Seniors & People with Disabilities: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/taxes/relief
• City of Richmond Real Estate Tax Relief: https://www.rva.gov/finance/real-estate-tax-relief

Virginia Age Deduction

Virginia allows an age deduction on your state income tax return for seniors (with income limits and phaseouts). Details: https://www.tax.virginia.gov/age-deduction

Tip: Use free tax help through IRS Tax-Aide (AARP Foundation) during tax season: https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/

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Housing, Rent, and Homelessness Prevention

Housing help is often waitlisted. Apply to multiple programs and stay in touch with housing agencies.

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)

Helps pay rent in private apartments that meet program standards. You typically pay ~30% of income; the voucher pays the rest.

• Virginia Housing HCV information: https://www.virginiahousing.com/partners/housing-choice-vouchers
• Find local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) and open waitlists via HUD: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts

HUD Section 202 Senior Housing

Affordable apartments for older adults, often with on‑site support. Search HUD subsidized apartments (select “Elderly/Disabled”): https://resources.hud.gov/

HUD‑Approved Housing Counseling

Get help with renting, buying, avoiding foreclosure, and reverse mortgages: https://www.hud.gov/states/virginia/homeownership/seniors

Virginia Housing (state authority)

Offers resources for renters and homeowners, including accessibility modifications: https://www.virginiahousing.com/

Homelessness and Eviction Prevention

• Virginia DHCD Homeless and Special Needs Housing (HPP/CoC programs): https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/homelessness
• Call 2‑1‑1 for your local Continuum of Care (CoC) entry point.

Reality check: The statewide COVID‑era Rent Relief Program ended. Today, rental aid is local (CoC, city/county funds, charities). Apply early if you get a pay‑or‑quit notice.

Housing and home repair programs (quick view)

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Home Repair, Weatherization, and Accessibility

Emergency Home and Accessibility Repair Program (EHARP)

Health and safety repairs and accessibility changes (ramps, electrical, roofing, plumbing) for eligible low‑income households. Caps and rules apply.

• Administered by Virginia DHCD through local partners: https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/eharp

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

• Grants up to $10,000 for very low‑income homeowners age 62+ for health/safety repairs (grants may be recaptured if you sell within 3 years).
• Loans up to $40,000 may also be available at low interest.
• Virginia info: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/va

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

Free energy-saving upgrades (insulation, air sealing, HVAC safety) for eligible households.

• Virginia WAP (DHCD): https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program-wap

Nonprofits

• Habitat for Humanity (critical home repairs and accessibility; participation may be required): https://www.habitat.org/
• Rebuilding Together (free critical home repairs through local affiliates): https://rebuildingtogether.org/find-your-local-affiliate

Reality check: These programs often have waitlists. Ask your AAA to help prioritize if your home has safety hazards (falls, no heat, unsafe wiring).

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Utility and Energy Bill Help

Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Covers heating (Fuel Assistance), cooling (Cooling Assistance), and heating emergencies (Crisis Assistance). Eligibility includes income and energy need.

• Program details and application windows: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/
• Fuel Assistance: Helps with primary heating costs.
• Crisis Assistance: Emergency help for no-heat situations, cutoffs, or broken systems.
• Cooling Assistance: Electricity bills and AC repair/replacement for eligible households; seniors 60+ often meet age criteria plus other rules.

Electric and Gas Company Programs

• Dominion Energy EnergyShare (bill pay and weatherization assistance): https://www.dominionenergy.com/virginia/billing/energyshare
• Appalachian Power assistance (partners with Dollar Energy Fund): https://www.dollarenergy.org/need-help/virginia/ and utility info at https://www.appalachianpower.com/
• Columbia Gas of Virginia assistance: https://www.columbiagasva.com/billing-payments/assistance-programs

Tip: Ask your utility about budget billing, medical certificate protections, and hardship funds. For water bills, contact your water utility for local aid or call 2‑1‑1.

Energy and utilities quick comparison

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Food and Nutrition

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries. Older adults with limited incomes may qualify, and medical expenses can sometimes increase your allowable deductions.

• Learn and apply: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/food.cgi or https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/

Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (Farm Market Fresh)

Provides checks to buy fresh produce from participating farmers’ markets. Supports seniors and local farmers.

• Program info: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/sfmnp.htm

Meals on Wheels and Congregate Meals

Hot meals delivered to your home or served at senior centers. Contact your AAA to apply.

• Find your AAA: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/aaamap.htm

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) “Senior Food Boxes”

USDA program providing a monthly box of staple foods to eligible older adults. Administered locally by food banks.

• USDA CSFP overview: https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp/commodity-supplemental-food-program
• Check local providers (examples): Feed More (Central VA) — https://feedmore.org/; Blue Ridge Area Food Bank — https://www.brafb.org/

Food programs at a glance

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Transportation

• Elderly & Disabled Transportation Fund: Supports rides to medical and essential trips through local transit/AAAs. Learn more and find your AAA: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/drivingtransport.htm and map at https://www.vda.virginia.gov/aaamap.htm
• Find local public transit: Virginia DRPT transit directory: https://www.drpt.virginia.gov/transit/locate-transit
• Medicaid NEMT (for Medicaid members): https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/non-emergency-medical-transportation-nemt/

Tip: Ask about reduced-fare programs, ADA paratransit, volunteer driver programs, and voucher rides through your AAA.

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Caregivers and Dementia Support

• Virginia Lifespan Respite Voucher Program: Reimburses eligible family caregivers (often up to $400) for short breaks from caregiving. Check current availability: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/respiteservices.htm
• Dementia Capable Virginia: Training, roadmaps, and tools for families and providers: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/dementiacapableva.htm
• Alzheimer’s Association (local chapters for support groups and helpline 1‑800‑272‑3900): https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/helpline

Reality check: Respite funds are limited and may open periodically. Get on interest lists and ask your AAA about adult day health centers and in‑home aide options through Medicaid/CCC Plus.

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Dental, Vision, and Hearing

• Virginia Dental Lifeline Network (Donated Dental Services): Free comprehensive dental care for eligible older adults with disabilities or fragile health. Waitlists common. https://dentallifeline.org/virginia/
• Virginia Dental Association Foundation Mission of Mercy (MOM) clinics: Free events with dental care. Check schedule: https://www.vdaf.org/
• VCU School of Dentistry (reduced‑fee clinics): https://dentistry.vcu.edu/patients/
• Lions Clubs of Virginia (vision and hearing assistance, varies by club): https://www.lionsofva.org/
• Virginia Department for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (equipment distribution): https://www.vddhh.org/tedp/

Tip: Ask your county/city public health department and free clinics for low‑cost dental days.

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Internet and Phone Discounts

• Lifeline program (discounted phone or internet): https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers
• Virginia Relay for individuals with hearing or speech disabilities: https://www.vddhh.org/relay-services/

Note: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended new funding in 2024. Ask your provider about their own low‑income plans.

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Legal Help, Consumer Protection, and Fraud

• Legal aid (find your local office and apply): https://www.valegalaid.org/
• Virginia Legal Aid Society (South Central VA): https://www.vlas.org/
• Blue Ridge Legal Services (Shenandoah Valley): https://www.brls.org/
• Central Virginia Legal Aid Society: https://cvlas.org/
• Legal Aid Justice Center: https://www.justice4all.org/
• Virginia Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) — stop Medicare fraud: https://www.virginiasmp.org/
• Virginia Attorney General Consumer Protection: https://www.oag.state.va.us/consumer-protection

Tip: Never pay upfront for “grant” help. Real government programs do not charge application fees.

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Inclusive Resources

Veterans and Military Families

• VA Health Care, pensions, and Aid & Attendance (for extra help with in‑home care or assisted living): https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Housing assistance for veterans (loans, adaptations): https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/
• Find VA medical centers and clinics: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/

LGBTQ+ Older Adults

• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline (1‑877‑360‑LGBT): https://www.sageusa.org/
• Equality Virginia (statewide advocacy and resources): https://equalityvirginia.org/
• Ask your AAA about LGBTQ+‑affirming providers; VICAP can help compare inclusive Medicare Advantage plans.

Seniors with Disabilities

• DARS (Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services): https://www.dars.virginia.gov/
• Centers for Independent Living (CILs) directory: https://www.vasilc.org/cils/
• Medicaid waivers and CCC Plus for in‑home support: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/ccc-plus/

Tribal and Native Elders

• Title VI Native American Aging Programs (nutrition and supportive services) — check with your tribal government and ACL resources: https://acl.gov/programs/american-indian-alaska-native-and-native-hawaiian-programs/title-vi-grants
• Indian Health Service (eligibility and care options): https://www.ihs.gov/
• Learn about Virginia’s federally recognized tribes and contacts via the Commonwealth: https://www.virginia.gov/agencies/secretary-of-the-commonwealth/ (search “Virginia Indian” resources or contact the Secretary of the Commonwealth for current tribal contacts)

Rural Seniors

• USDA programs (home repair, rental help in rural areas): https://www.rd.usda.gov/va
• Rural rental properties with subsidy (USDA): https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/multi-family-housing-programs/multifamily-housing-property-search
• Local AAA examples serving rural areas:
  • Bay Aging (Middle Peninsula & Northern Neck): https://bayaging.org/
  • Mountain Empire Older Citizens (Far Southwest VA): https://meoc.org/
• Transit in rural regions (DRPT directory): https://www.drpt.virginia.gov/transit/locate-transit

Reality check: Rural programs can be spread out and underfunded. Lean on your AAA, 2‑1‑1, and local churches and nonprofits while you wait.

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Step‑by‑Step: How to Get the Most Help Fast

1. Call your AAA and ask for an options counseling appointment. Bring your documents.
2. Apply on CommonHelp for SNAP, Medicaid, and Energy Assistance (LIHEAP).
3. Ask your utility about hardship funds and budget billing.
4. If housing is unstable, add your name to HUD Section 202 and local HCV waitlists, and ask 2‑1‑1 for your CoC intake site.
5. For home safety issues, apply to EHARP, USDA 504, and Weatherization.
6. If you have Medicare, call VICAP for a drug plan review and check if you qualify for Medicare Savings Programs.
7. Caregivers: apply for the Respite Voucher and ask about adult day options.

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Program Realities, Tips, and Warnings

• Expect waitlists for housing and repairs. Apply to more than one program.
• Keep copies of everything you submit. If denied, ask for the appeal process and deadlines.
• Report changes (income, address, hospitalization) promptly to avoid overpayments.
• Use only official websites (.gov, .org). Beware of fee‑based “application helpers.”
• For Medicare and Medicaid billing issues, contact Virginia SMP: https://www.virginiasmp.org/

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Where do I apply for multiple benefits in one place?
A: Use Virginia’s CommonHelp portal: https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/. Your AAA can also help with applications and referrals: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/aaamap.htm

Q: I have Medicare. Can I also get Medicaid?
A: Yes, if your income and assets are within limits. If eligible for both, Medicaid can help with premiums and long‑term services. Start at https://www.coverva.org/ or talk to VICAP: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm

Q: My power could be cut off. What can I do today?
A: Call your utility immediately to ask about medical protections and payment plans. Apply for LIHEAP Crisis Assistance: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/. For Dominion Energy EnergyShare: https://www.dominionenergy.com/virginia/billing/energyshare. Also call 2‑1‑1.

Q: Are there programs to help with prescription drug costs?
A: Review your Part D plan with VICAP to minimize costs: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm. Ask about Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help (Low‑Income Subsidy): https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/

Q: Is there help to stay in my home and avoid a nursing home?
A: Ask about Virginia Medicaid’s CCC Plus Waiver for in‑home services: https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/for-members/benefits-and-services/ccc-plus/. Your AAA can also connect you to personal care, home‑delivered meals, and caregiver support.

Q: Can I get help with property taxes?
A: Many localities offer property tax relief or deferrals for older adults. Check your city/county site (e.g., Fairfax: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/taxes/relief; Richmond: https://www.rva.gov/finance/real-estate-tax-relief).

Q: What if I can’t afford dental care?
A: Try Donated Dental Services (https://dentallifeline.org/virginia/), VDAF Mission of Mercy clinics (https://www.vdaf.org/), and dental schools like VCU (https://dentistry.vcu.edu/patients/).

Q: I take care of my spouse with dementia. Is there any help for me?
A: Apply for the Lifespan Respite Voucher (https://www.vda.virginia.gov/respiteservices.htm) and explore Dementia Capable Virginia resources: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/dementiacapableva.htm. Your AAA can suggest adult day health and respite options.

Q: I’m a veteran. What housing help is available?
A: Look at VA housing adaptations and loan guarantees: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/. If you need daily help, check VA Aid & Attendance: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/

Q: How do I find senior apartments near me?
A: Use HUD’s resource locator and filter for elderly housing: https://resources.hud.gov/. Also check VirginiaHousingSearch.com for affordable listings: https://www.virginiahousingsearch.com/

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Resources by Region (Selected)

• Northern Virginia:
  • Fairfax County Neighborhood & Community Services (Senior Centers/transport): https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/senior-centers
  • Area Agency on Aging (Fairfax): https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/older-adults
• Richmond/Central Virginia:
  • Senior Connections (AAA): https://seniorconnections-va.org/
  • Virginia LTC Ombudsman (hosted by Senior Connections): https://www.elderrightsva.org/
• Hampton Roads/Tidewater:
  • Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia (AAA): https://www.ssseva.org/
  • Hampton/Newport News Community Services Board (behavioral health): https://www.hnncsb.org/
• Shenandoah Valley:
  • Valley Program for Aging Services (AAA): https://www.vpas.info/
• Roanoke/Alleghany:
  • LOA (Local Office on Aging): https://www.loaa.org/
• Southwest Virginia:
  • Mountain Empire Older Citizens: https://meoc.org/
• Middle Peninsula & Northern Neck:
  • Bay Aging: https://bayaging.org/

Find all AAAs via the state map: https://www.vda.virginia.gov/aaamap.htm

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Helpful Tables Round‑Up

1. Application “front doors” (above)
2. Healthcare at a glance (above)
3. Housing & home repair (above)
4. Energy & utilities (above)
5. Food programs (above)

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Sources and Official Links

• Virginia CommonHelp (apply for multiple benefits): https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/
• DARS (aging services, AAA map, caregiver/dementia resources): https://www.dars.virginia.gov/ and https://www.vda.virginia.gov/
• Virginia Medicaid & CCC Plus: https://www.coverva.org/ and https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/
• VICAP (Medicare counseling): https://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap.htm
• LIHEAP Energy Assistance: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/
• Virginia DHCD (EHARP, WAP, homelessness): https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/eharp, https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program-wap, https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/homelessness
• Virginia Housing (HCV and renter/homeowner resources): https://www.virginiahousing.com/
• HUD resource locator and counseling: https://resources.hud.gov/ and https://www.hud.gov/states/virginia/homeownership/seniors
• USDA Rural Development (repair grants/loans): https://www.rd.usda.gov/va
• SNAP: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/food.cgi
• 2‑1‑1 Virginia: https://www.211virginia.org/
• Adult Protective Services: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/family/aps.cgi
• Virginia SMP (Medicare fraud): https://www.virginiasmp.org/
• Legal Aid statewide: https://www.valegalaid.org/
• Census (older adult demographics — ACS): https://data.census.gov/

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Disclaimer

Program rules, funding, and eligibility change. Always confirm details with the official agency or program before you apply. This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, or medical 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.