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

Senior Benefits and Assistance Programs in Washington

Last updated: August 2025

If You Need Emergency Help (Start Here)

• Call 2-1-1 to find urgent local help for rent, food, shelter, and bills, or visit Washington 211: https://wa211.org
• Facing eviction? Low‑income tenants in Washington have a right to a lawyer in eviction cases. Call the Eviction Defense Screening Line: 1-855-657-8387 (Office of Civil Legal Aid) — details: https://ocla.wa.gov/programs-services/eviction-right-to-counsel/
• Abandonment, abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult: Adult Protective Services (APS) 1-877-734-6277 — learn more: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/aps
• Behavioral health crisis: Call or text 988 — info: https://988lifeline.org
• Homeless or at risk: Contact your local Coordinated Entry provider via 2‑1‑1 or see Commerce homelessness help: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/serving-communities/homelessness/
• Food right now: Find a nearby food bank via Northwest Harvest’s partner finder: https://www.northwestharvest.org/need-food/ or Food Lifeline’s map: https://foodlifeline.org/need-food/

Key Takeaways

• Washington offers strong help for seniors through Apple Health (Medicaid), in‑home care programs, property tax relief, energy assistance, nutrition, and free Medicare counseling.
• Start with your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for personalized guidance and applications: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/ALTSA/resources
• For healthcare and long‑term care at home, look at Community First Choice (CFC), Medicaid Alternative Care (MAC), and Tailored Supports for Older Adults (TSOA): https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/long-term-services-supports
• If you’re struggling with rent, utilities, food, or legal issues, use 2‑1‑1 and the official links in this guide to reach the right program quickly.
• Some COVID‑era programs have ended. The Affordable Connectivity Program (internet discount) is no longer funded. Use Lifeline and low‑cost ISP plans instead.
• Realistic timing: many benefits involve paperwork and waitlists. Apply early, respond to mail promptly, keep copies, and ask your AAA for help.

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Quick Help at a Glance

According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey, about 1.34 million Washingtonians are age 65+ (roughly 17.1% of the state). Source: Census Bureau ACS 2023 (table S0101): https://data.census.gov/table?q=S0101:+Washington&t=Age+and+Sex

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Getting Personalized Help

Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), Information & Assistance (I&A), and ADRCs

• Find your local AAA: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/ALTSA/resources
• What they do: assess your needs, explain options, help with applications (Medicaid, meals, home care, caregiver support), and connect you to local programs.
• Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) offer unbiased options counseling and referrals.

Tip: If paperwork feels overwhelming, ask AAA/I&A for help. Keep copies of IDs, Social Security cards, proof of income, bank statements, and lease/utility bills.

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Healthcare, Medicare, and Long‑Term Care

Medicare help (free, unbiased)

• SHIBA (Office of the Insurance Commissioner): Compare plans, find savings (Extra Help, Medicare Savings Programs), and fix billing issues. Call 1‑800‑562‑6900 or visit https://www.insurance.wa.gov/shiba

Apple Health (Medicaid) for seniors and people with disabilities

• Apple Health is Washington’s Medicaid program (Health Care Authority).
• What it can cover: doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, dental (adult dental is covered), medical equipment, and long‑term services and supports if eligible.
• How to apply: Washington Healthplanfinder (https://www.wahealthplanfinder.org) or through DSHS (https://www.washingtonconnection.org). HCA information hub: https://www.hca.wa.gov

Reality check: Financial and functional eligibility rules are detailed and change over time. If your income or assets are a bit over the limits, ask about “spenddown,” Miller Trusts (Qualified Income Trusts), or spousal impoverishment protections. SHIBA or your AAA can explain.

In‑home care and supports (Aging and Long‑Term Support Administration – ALTSA)

• Community First Choice (CFC): Personal care in your home (bathing, dressing, meal prep), personal emergency response systems, and limited assistive technology for eligible Apple Health members. Info: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/long-term-services-supports/community-first-choice-cfc
• Medicaid Alternative Care (MAC): Supports unpaid caregivers of an adult who would otherwise qualify for Medicaid LTSS. Services can include respite, training, and supplies. https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/long-term-services-supports/medicaid-alternative-care-mac
• Tailored Supports for Older Adults (TSOA): For adults 55+ who need help to stay at home but are not eligible for Medicaid. Offers a benefit allowance for services like respite, personal care, and caregiver support. https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/long-term-services-supports/tailored-supports-older-adults-tsoa
• Home & Community Services (HCS) offices: Apply for Medicaid LTSS and get a case manager. Find HCS: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/ALTSA/resources

Transportation to medical care

• Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for Apple Health (Medicaid) members: brokers provide rides (bus, taxi, wheelchair van, ferry, air when necessary). Details and broker list: https://www.hca.wa.gov/free-or-low-cost-health-care/i-need-medical-dental-or-vision-care/transportation-services-nonemergency

Prescription savings

• ArrayRx Discount Card (no cost): A multi‑state program led by HCA providing prescription discounts. Enroll here: https://www.arrayrxcard.com

Dental care

• Adult dental is covered under Apple Health. Find dental providers: https://www.hca.wa.gov/health-care-services-supports/benefits-and-services/dental-services
• Donated Dental Services for medically fragile or disabled seniors (Dental Lifeline Network – Washington): https://dentallifeline.org/washington/

Table: Health and Long‑Term Care Programs

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Money, Cash, and Basic Needs

Basic Food (SNAP)

• Monthly grocery help via EBT card, usable at grocery stores and many farmers markets. Learn and apply: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/community-services-offices/basic-food
• Washington Connection application portal: https://www.washingtonconnection.org

Senior nutrition programs

• Meals on Wheels and community meal sites are run through AAAs and local nonprofits. Start with your AAA: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/ALTSA/resources
• Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Provides coupons for fresh fruits and vegetables from participating farmers markets. Administered through AAAs with state coordination. See program overview via WSDA: https://agr.wa.gov/services/grants-and-loans/farm-to-school-and-direct-marketing/farmers-market-nutrition-programs

Cash assistance (limited and situation‑specific)

• Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) cash assistance: Modest monthly cash for adults who are likely to meet federal disability criteria; often paired with a referral to HEN for housing/essentials. Learn more: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/community-services-offices/aged-blind-or-disabled-cash-assistance
• HEN (Housing and Essential Needs) Referral Program: Rent/utility help and essential items for eligible adults unable to work for 90+ days. Program info and provider list: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/serving-communities/housing/housing-and-essential-needs/
• Emergency funds: Some cities/counties and charities offer one‑time help with rent, utilities, or essentials. Call 2‑1‑1.

Reality check: ABD and HEN benefits are limited and may have waitlists. Keep all mail from DSHS and providers and respond quickly.

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Housing, Rent Help, and Home Repairs

Rental help and homelessness prevention

• Coordinated Entry: The front door to homeless services (shelter, rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing). Access via 2‑1‑1 or your county’s portal listed by Commerce: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/serving-communities/homelessness/
• Right to Counsel for evictions (low‑income tenants): Call 1‑855‑657‑8387 (OCLA) — https://ocla.wa.gov/programs-services/eviction-right-to-counsel/
• Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) and public housing: Apply through your local housing authority. Many have closed/waitlisted applications; check regularly. Directory via WA Housing Authorities Association: https://www.wahousingalliance.org/housing-authorities
• HEN (see above): If referred by DSHS, HEN can support rent/utility payments and essentials.

Homeowners: property tax relief (Washington Dept. of Revenue)

• Exemption: Seniors 61+ or persons with disabilities may qualify for a reduction in property taxes based on income thresholds set by your county. Info and eligibility: https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/property-tax-senior-disabled-exemption
• Deferral: Postpone paying property taxes (they become a lien with interest); useful if cash‑flow is tight. Details: https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/property-tax-deferral

Table: Property Tax Relief Options

Tip: Call your County Assessor’s office for help filling out forms. Many allow year‑round applications.

Home repairs and weatherization

• Weatherization Assistance Program (Commerce): Free energy upgrades (insulation, air sealing, heating system repair/replacement) for eligible households. https://www.commerce.wa.gov/growing-the-economy/energy/weatherization-and-energy-efficiency/
• LIHEAP Energy Assistance (Commerce): Helps pay heating bills; may include emergency heating repairs. https://www.commerce.wa.gov/growing-the-economy/energy/low-income-home-energy-assistance/
• USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Rural Development): Grants up to $10,000 for essential home safety repairs for very‑low‑income homeowners age 62+. Loans available for others. Washington details: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/wa
• Rebuilding Together (local affiliates): Free critical home repairs and modifications for low‑income homeowners, including seniors. King County: https://rtseattle.org/; South Sound: https://rebuildingtogetherss.org/

Reality check: Home repair grants are competitive and funding is limited. Apply early, respond to requests for documents, and be flexible on scheduling.

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Utilities, Phone, and Internet

• LIHEAP (heat/electric): Apply through your local Community Action Agency. https://www.commerce.wa.gov/growing-the-economy/energy/low-income-home-energy-assistance/
• Weatherization (see above): Long‑term energy savings and comfort upgrades. https://www.commerce.wa.gov/growing-the-economy/energy/weatherization-and-energy-efficiency/
• Lifeline (FCC): Monthly discount on phone or broadband for low‑income households. Check eligibility and apply: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/do-i-qualify/
• Internet discounts after ACP: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program ran out of funding in 2024. Look for ISP low‑cost plans (examples include Xfinity Internet Essentials, Comcast; Access from AT&T; Spectrum Internet Assist). Ask your provider for senior/low‑income plans and combine with Lifeline if eligible.

Table: Utility and Communications Discounts

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Transportation and Mobility

• Regional Reduced Fare Permit (RRFP) – Puget Sound: Discounted fares for riders 65+ on buses, Link light rail, Sounder, ferries (some agencies). Info: https://www.soundtransit.org/ride-with-us/how-to-pay/fares/regional-reduced-fare-permit
• ADA Paratransit: Door‑to‑door rides for eligible riders unable to use fixed‑route transit. Apply through your local transit agency.
• Volunteer driver programs and community shuttles: Ask your AAA or call 2‑1‑1 for local options.
• Medical rides: Apple Health NEMT (see Healthcare). https://www.hca.wa.gov/…/transportation-services-nonemergency

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Safety, Legal, and Consumer Protection

• Adult Protective Services (APS): Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults. 1‑877‑734‑6277; https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/aps
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Help resolve issues in nursing homes, assisted living, adult family homes, and memory care. https://www.waombudsman.org
• Legal help for seniors: CLEAR Senior line (Northwest Justice Project) 1‑888‑387‑7111; https://nwjustice.org/get-legal-help
• Eviction Right to Counsel: 1‑855‑657‑8387; https://ocla.wa.gov/programs-services/eviction-right-to-counsel/
• Consumer protection and scams: Washington Attorney General’s Office – file complaints and see scam alerts: https://www.atg.wa.gov

Table: Legal and Safety Helplines

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Taxes, Money Management, and Benefits Checkups

• Property tax relief: See the Exemption and Deferral programs: https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/property-tax-senior-disabled-exemption
• Free tax prep: AARP Foundation Tax‑Aide (seasonal): https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/
• Benefits screening: Use Washington Connection to see if you qualify for state benefits: https://www.washingtonconnection.org

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Inclusive Resources

Veterans and Military Families

• Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA): Claims help (VA Pension, Aid & Attendance), state and federal benefits, counseling, and long‑term care homes. Main page: https://www.dva.wa.gov; Claims assistance: https://www.dva.wa.gov/veterans-service-members-and-their-families/veterans-benefits/claims-assistance
• VA Aid & Attendance/Housebound: Extra monthly payment for eligible veterans/spouses needing daily help. Info: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• County Veterans Assistance Fund: Emergency help with rent, utilities, and basic needs for eligible veterans; apply through your county veterans office (ask WDVA or 2‑1‑1).

Reality check: VA benefits decisions can be slow. Keep medical evidence organized and work with a WDVA service officer.

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• GenPride (Seattle/King County): Classes, support groups, and referrals for LGBTQ+ older adults. https://genprideseattle.org
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Trained to advocate for residents’ rights, including LGBTQ+ issues: https://www.waombudsman.org
• Anti‑discrimination: Washington law protects against discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations. Learn more: Washington State Human Rights Commission: https://www.hum.wa.gov

Seniors with Disabilities

• DSHS Developmental Disabilities Administration (for eligible individuals): https://www.dshs.wa.gov/dda
• Apple Health, Medicare Savings Programs, and CFC can work together to cover services and supports. Start with SHIBA and AAA for coordination.
• Durable medical equipment: Apple Health may cover; ask providers and see HCA coverage pages: https://www.hca.wa.gov/health-care-services-supports/benefits-and-services

Tribal and Urban Native Elders

• Title VI Native American Aging Programs (nutrition, caregiver support) are run by tribes; find programs via your tribal government or use ACL’s locator: https://olderindians.acl.gov
• Indian Health Service and Tribal Health Clinics: Care for eligible AI/AN elders; coordinate with Medicare/Medicaid. IHS: https://www.ihs.gov
• BIA Housing Improvement Program (HIP) for eligible tribal members needing critical home repairs: https://www.bia.gov/service/housing-improvement-program

Tip: Ask your AAA and tribal elder program about combining Title VI meals with local senior meal sites.

Rural Seniors and Limited Access Areas

• Use 2‑1‑1 and your AAA to find volunteer driver programs, dial‑a‑ride, mobile food pantries, and traveling health clinics.
• Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) can arrange long‑distance rides and ferry/air when medically necessary: https://www.hca.wa.gov/…/transportation-services-nonemergency
• USDA Section 504 and Weatherization can be especially valuable for rural homeowners (see links above).

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Resources by Region (Selected)

Note: Each region has an Area Agency on Aging (AAA). Use the AAA locator to confirm your office: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/ALTSA/resources

• King County (Seattle)
  • AAA/Community Living Connections: https://communitylivingconnections.org
  • Sound Generations (Meals on Wheels, transportation, caregiver support): https://soundgenerations.org
  • Seattle Utility Discount Program: https://www.seattle.gov/humanservices/services-and-programs/utility-discount-program
  • Regional Reduced Fare Permit (Puget Sound): https://www.soundtransit.org/ride-with-us/how-to-pay/fares/regional-reduced-fare-permit
• Pierce County (Tacoma)
  • Pierce County Aging & Disability Resources: https://www.piercecountywa.gov/1986/Aging-and-Disability-Resources
  • Tacoma Public Utilities assistance: https://mytpu.org/community/assistance-programs/
  • Catholic Community Services (South Sound) – senior programs: https://ccsww.org/get-help/senior-services/
• Snohomish County
  • Homage Senior Services (AAA): https://homage.org
  • PUD assistance programs: https://www.snopud.com/customer-service/assistance/
• Spokane/Eastern Washington
  • Aging & Long Term Care of Eastern Washington (AAA): https://www.altcew.org
  • Avista Utilities assistance: https://www.myavista.com/account/assistance
• Southwest Washington (Clark/Cowlitz)
  • Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of Southwest Washington: https://www.helpingelders.org
  • Clark Public Utilities assistance: https://www.clarkpublicutilities.com/customers/account-assistance/
• Yakima and Kittitas Counties
  • Aging & Long Term Care (South‑Central WA AAA): https://www.altsa.dshs.wa.gov/altcscw
  • People For People (transport and services): https://www.pfp.org
• Olympic Peninsula (Kitsap, Jefferson, Clallam)
  • Olympic Area Agency on Aging: https://www.o3a.org
  • Kitsap Transit ACCESS (paratransit): https://kitsaptransit.com/access

If your county isn’t listed: call 2‑1‑1 or use the AAA locator to find local contacts.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know if I qualify for Apple Health (Medicaid) as a senior?

• Eligibility depends on income, assets, and medical need. There are different pathways (age 65+, disability, long‑term care). Start with HCA’s eligibility pages: https://www.hca.wa.gov/health-care-services-supports/apple-health-medicaid-coverage and apply at https://www.wahealthplanfinder.org or with help from your AAA.

2. I have Medicare. Can I also get Apple Health?

• Yes, if you meet financial criteria. Apple Health can help pay Medicare premiums and, in some cases, provide additional benefits. Ask SHIBA about Medicare Savings Programs and Apple Health: https://www.insurance.wa.gov/shiba

3. What’s the fastest way to find local rent or utility help?

• Call 2‑1‑1. They use your ZIP code to connect you to open programs. For heat/electric, also contact your local LIHEAP agency: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/…/low-income-home-energy-assistance/

4. Is there still Emergency Rental Assistance from COVID funds?

• The large state COVID‑era programs have ended. Some local rent help continues through counties, cities, and charities. Use 2‑1‑1 and ask your AAA or Community Action Agency.

5. How do I get help to stay in my home instead of a nursing facility?

• Ask your AAA about Community First Choice (CFC), TSOA, and MAC. If you may qualify for Medicaid long‑term services, contact HCS for an assessment: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/ALTSA/resources

6. What’s the property tax break for seniors?

• Washington offers a Property Tax Exemption and a Deferral for seniors 61+ and people with disabilities who meet income rules. Start here: https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/property-tax-senior-disabled-exemption and contact your County Assessor.

7. Can I get a ride to medical appointments?

• If you have Apple Health, use NEMT through your regional broker: https://www.hca.wa.gov/…/transportation-services-nonemergency. If not, look into volunteer driver programs via your AAA or paratransit if you qualify.

8. Where can I get free or low‑cost dental care?

• Apple Health covers adult dental. Find providers here: https://www.hca.wa.gov/health-care-services-supports/benefits-and-services/dental-services. Also see Dental Lifeline Network (Donated Dental Services): https://dentallifeline.org/washington/

9. I’m a veteran. Who can help me file for benefits?

• Washington Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) provides free claims assistance: https://www.dva.wa.gov/…/veterans-benefits/claims-assistance. Call WDVA for your nearest service officer.

10. I’m being scammed or pressured over the phone. What should I do?

• Hang up. Report it to the WA Attorney General’s Office: https://www.atg.wa.gov. If you shared personal info, consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus.

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Sources and Official References

• U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2023 age data (Washington): https://data.census.gov/table?q=S0101:+Washington
• Health Care Authority (Apple Health/Medicaid): https://www.hca.wa.gov
• Washington Healthplanfinder (apply for coverage): https://www.wahealthplanfinder.org
• ALTSA (Aging and Long‑Term Support Administration) programs (CFC, MAC, TSOA, HCS): https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/long-term-services-supports and AAA locator: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/ALTSA/resources
• SHIBA (Medicare counseling): https://www.insurance.wa.gov/shiba
• LIHEAP (Commerce): https://www.commerce.wa.gov/growing-the-economy/energy/low-income-home-energy-assistance/
• Weatherization (Commerce): https://www.commerce.wa.gov/growing-the-economy/energy/weatherization-and-energy-efficiency/
• USDA Section 504 Home Repair (WA): https://www.rd.usda.gov/…/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/wa
• Property Tax Exemption/Deferral (Dept. of Revenue): https://dor.wa.gov/taxes-rates/property-tax-senior-disabled-exemption
• Basic Food (SNAP) – DSHS: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/community-services-offices/basic-food
• ArrayRx Discount Card (HCA): https://www.arrayrxcard.com
• APS: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/aps
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: https://www.waombudsman.org
• Eviction Right to Counsel (OCLA): https://ocla.wa.gov/programs-services/eviction-right-to-counsel/
• CLEAR Senior line (NJP): https://nwjustice.org/get-legal-help
• Washington 211: https://wa211.org

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Disclaimer

Programs, eligibility rules, funding levels, and application processes can change. Always confirm details with the official agency or organization linked in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, 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.