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

Senior Benefits and Assistance Programs in West Virginia

Last updated: August 2025

By GrantsForSeniors.org

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If You Need Emergency Help

If you are in danger or need urgent help, use these resources now.

Tip: If you can’t reach an agency by phone, try calling 211. They can often connect you faster to a local office or an alternative provider.

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Key Takeaways

• West Virginia offers strong help for seniors, but many programs have waitlists and strict income and asset rules. Apply early and keep paperwork handy.
• For healthcare, use Medicaid (including long‑term care and personal care), Medicare with free counseling through SHIP, the Lighthouse Program for non‑Medicaid in‑home support, and Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT).
• For housing, start with your local housing authority and the West Virginia Housing Development Fund for rent help and affordable housing. For repairs, look at USDA Section 504 grants and the Weatherization Assistance Program.
• For bills, apply to LIEAP (home energy), Lifeline (phone discount), and check water company assistance. Some utility aid opens only in certain seasons.
• Food support includes SNAP, senior center congregate meals, home‑delivered meals, and farmers’ market vouchers where available.
• Veterans, disabled, rural, LGBTQ+, and Native seniors have additional targeted options—see “Inclusive Support” below.
• Always verify current eligibility and application windows on official sites linked in this guide. Rules and funding change.

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How to Use This Guide

• Start with the overview tables for quick options and links.
• Then read the sections that match your needs: healthcare, housing, repairs, utilities, food, and transportation.
• Use our application tips and the Resources by Region section to find the right local office.

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At‑a‑Glance: Core Programs and Where to Apply

Reality check: Section 8 and other housing programs often have long waitlists. Put in an application anyway and ask about preferences (age, disability, veterans) that might move you up.

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Healthcare and In‑Home Support

Medicaid (including long‑term care)

Medicaid helps with doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and long‑term care. In West Virginia, Medicaid also covers nursing home care and some home‑ and community‑based services for those who qualify.

• Learn about coverage and eligibility at the WV DHHR Medicaid for Long‑Term Care page.
• Income and asset rules apply. If you think you’re close, apply and let the caseworker review—there are spousal and home protections in some situations.
• If denied, ask about “medically needy” pathways or spend‑down options, and consider talking to a counselor or legal aid.

Tip: Keep copies of your ID, proof of WV residency, Social Security card, bank statements, and medical bills. Submitting a complete application speeds up decisions.

Medicaid Personal Care

If you qualify medically and financially, a caregiver can help with bathing, dressing, meals, and housekeeping.

• Program info and how to connect: WV Medicaid Personal Care
• Phone (program office): 304‑356‑4924

Lighthouse Program (state‑funded in‑home help)

For seniors who don’t qualify for Medicaid, Lighthouse can provide help with mobility, meals, housekeeping, and personal care—usually up to a set number of hours per month, based on assessment and available funds.

• Details: WV Lighthouse Program
• Phone (program office): 304‑558‑3317

Reality check: Lighthouse funds vary by county and year. Some areas keep waitlists. Ask your Area Agency on Aging to help you apply and to suggest backup options.

Medicare + Free Counseling (SHIP)

Medicare has parts for hospital care, doctor visits, prescriptions, and optional private plans (Medicare Advantage). Picking the right plan can save money.

• Get free, unbiased help from counselors via the SHIP national locator (choose West Virginia).
• Check current premiums and plans at Medicare.gov.

Related help:

• Extra Help (Low‑Income Subsidy) for drug costs: apply at Social Security – Extra Help.
• Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB) to pay Medicare premiums and, in some cases, deductibles: see WV Medicare Premium Assistance Programs.

Transportation to Care (NEMT)

If you have Medicaid, you can get rides to doctor visits, dialysis, the pharmacy, and more.

• How it works in WV: Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

Tip: Schedule as early as possible, especially for early morning appointments. If you miss a pickup, call right away to avoid being marked as a no‑show.

Dental and Vision

Medicare has limited dental and vision coverage, but:

• Some Medicare Advantage plans include dental, vision, and hearing—review plan details at Medicare.gov.
• Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and dental schools may offer reduced‑cost care. Ask your local AAA or check the Eldercare Locator for clinics.
• Veterans may qualify for VA dental in certain situations; check VA dental benefits.

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Housing and Rent Help

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and Public Housing

Vouchers help pay part of your rent in the private market. Public housing offers apartments run by local housing authorities.

• Learn about voucher and contract management in WV via the WV Housing Development Fund (WVHDF).
• Find and contact your local housing authority using the HUD PHA Contact Tool.
• If you already live in subsidized housing, ask about medical or disability deductions that may lower your rent.

Reality check: Waitlists can be long or closed. Get on the list, keep your contact info updated, and ask about local preferences (age, disability, veteran status, homelessness).

Affordable Senior Housing (LIHTC, HOME, Home4Good, Affordable Housing Fund)

West Virginia supports affordable rental housing through several programs.

• LIHTC properties offer below‑market rents; eligibility is income‑based. Learn more via the WVHDF Low‑Income Housing Tax Credit Program.
• The HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds affordable housing and rehab; see WVHDF – HOME Program.
• Home4Good funds projects tackling homelessness; see WVHDF – Home4Good.
• The Affordable Housing Fund supports nonprofits serving seniors; see WVHDF – Affordable Housing Fund.

Tip: To find available LIHTC units, call nearby properties directly and ask about current income limits and any senior‑only buildings.

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Home Repairs and Modifications

USDA Section 504 Home Repair (62+)

For very low‑income homeowners age 62 or older:

• Grants up to $10,000 to remove health and safety hazards.
• Loans up to $40,000 for repairs at low interest.
• In WV: USDA Section 504 Home Repair – WV

Reality check: Grants must be repaid if you sell or transfer the home within three years. Loans require ability to repay.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

Cuts utility costs and makes homes safer (insulation, air sealing, furnace checks).

• Learn more at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program and ask your local community action agency how to apply.

Home Repair Options for Veterans

• In five counties (Preston, Taylor, Harrison, Monongalia, and Marion), older veterans may access forgivable home repair loans through the Fairmont‑Morgantown Housing Authority; see the HUD case study: Home Repair Assistance for Veterans in WV.
• Also ask VA about Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grants and Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA): VA housing grants for disabled veterans.

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Utilities, Phone, and Water Bill Help

Reality check: LIEAP opens for a limited time each year and may close early if funds run out. Prepare documents in advance (ID, income proof, recent utility bills).

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Food and Nutrition

Tip: Many senior centers can bundle services: meals, transportation, and help applying for SNAP. Start there if you’re unsure.

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Income, Taxes, and Cash Assistance

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For older adults with low income and limited resources. Learn and apply at SSA – SSI.
• Social Security retirement and disability: Manage benefits at SSA.gov.
• Medicare Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs: Reduce Medicare costs; see Extra Help and WV Medicare Premium Assistance programs.
• Property tax relief – Homestead Exemption: Reduces taxable value of your primary home for homeowners aged 65+ or totally and permanently disabled. Check details with the West Virginia State Tax Department and your county assessor.

Reality check: Direct state cash assistance for seniors is limited. If you face a one‑time crisis, combine local options—211, churches/charities, and your senior center’s emergency funds—while your longer‑term applications process.

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Transportation and Mobility

• Medicaid NEMT: See WV Medicaid NEMT.
• Senior center and AAA rides: Many AAAs arrange trips to medical visits, grocery stores, or senior centers. Find your AAA via the Eldercare Locator.
• Paratransit and reduced fares: Ask your local transit agency about ADA paratransit and senior discounts.

Tip: For mobility and fall prevention at home, ask your doctor to write a referral for a home safety evaluation. Some repairs may be covered under Medicaid waivers or by local nonprofits.

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Inclusive Support: Help for Specific Groups

Disabled Seniors

• Medicaid long‑term services and supports (LTSS): Start at WV Medicaid for Long‑Term Care and ask about home‑ and community‑based options.
• Personal Care: WV Medicaid Personal Care
• Assistive technology: Ask your AAA for local loan closets and the state AT program; if you use VA care, ask your VA clinic about durable medical equipment.

Veteran Seniors

• State benefits and local service officers: West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance
• VA Health, Pensions, Aid & Attendance, and housing help: Start at VA.gov or call your county VA office via the state site above.
• Home repairs (select counties): See HUD’s WV veteran repair case study.
• Homelessness prevention and housing: VA Homeless Programs and Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• Friendly support and aging resources: SAGE – Advocacy & Services for LGBTQ+ Elders and the SAGE Hotline at 877‑360‑5428 (weekdays).
• Local civil rights and referrals: Fairness West Virginia

Tip: If you face discrimination in housing or services, contact HUD Fair Housing and your local legal aid.

Native/Tribal Elders

West Virginia does not have federally recognized tribes headquartered in the state. If you are an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe (even if you live in WV):

• Indian Health Service: Find clinics and eligibility at IHS – Find Health Care.
• Title VI Native American aging programs (meals, outreach): See the ACL Title VI Programs and ask your tribe about services where you live.

Rural Seniors and Limited Access

• Use 211 and your AAA to find mobile clinics, home‑delivered meals, and visiting nurses.
• If internet is limited, apply by phone or at your county DHHR office. Ask for mailed forms.
• Use Lifeline for a discounted phone plan: Lifeline Support.
• For groceries in remote areas, ask your senior center about once‑a‑week delivery routes and bundled wellness checks.

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How to Apply (Step‑by‑Step)

1. Gather documents:
   • Photo ID, Social Security card, proof of WV residency (lease, utility bill)
   • Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, recent bank statements)
   • Medical insurance cards (Medicare, Medicaid), medical bills if relevant
   • Housing documents (lease, eviction/termination notices) if applying for housing help
2. Contact the right office:
   • Use the tables and links above, or call 211 to get the correct number/address.
3. Complete the application:
   • Ask if you can apply online, by mail, or in person.
   • If you need help, ask your AAA or a SHIP counselor (for Medicare) to sit with you.
4. Submit and follow up:
   • Keep copies of everything and note the date you applied.
   • If you don’t hear back, call in 10–14 days. Ask for a case number.
5. If denied:
   • Read the denial letter and appeal by the stated deadline.
   • Ask your AAA or Legal Aid of West Virginia to review your case: Legal Aid WV.

Reality check: Many programs verify information from multiple databases. A mismatch in your name, address, or income can cause delays. Double‑check details.

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Resources by Region (Find Your Local Help)

Because programs are delivered by local offices, start with these official directories:

• Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and Senior Centers: Use the Eldercare Locator or see WV’s AAAs overview page and ask for your county’s senior center.
• County DHHR offices (Medicaid, SNAP, LIEAP): Find your local office via WV DHHR.
• Housing Authorities (Section 8, public housing): Use the HUD PHA Contact Tool and the HUD Resource Locator.
• Veterans offices in WV: Find local offices – WV Dept. of Veterans Assistance.
• Food Pantries and Meal Sites: Search WV 211 or your regional food bank: Mountaineer Food Bank and Facing Hunger Foodbank.

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What’s the quickest way to see which programs I can get?

• Use the free BenefitsCheckUp screening, then call your local AAA (find it via the Eldercare Locator) to prioritize applications.

2. How do I get help choosing a Medicare plan?

• Call SHIP for free counseling via the SHIP locator. They can check your doctors, drugs, and costs and compare plans on Medicare.gov.

3. I live on Social Security only. Can I get help with Medicare costs?

• Possibly. Check Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB) and Extra Help (drug costs). See WV Medicare Premium Assistance Programs and SSA Extra Help.

4. My landlord raised the rent. Can anyone help?

• Apply for Section 8 and ask about affordable senior housing (LIHTC). Start at WVHDF programs. Also call 211 for local emergency rent funds.

5. I need a ramp and bathroom grab bars. Where do I start?

• Check USDA’s Section 504 Home Repair and ask your AAA about local nonprofits and weatherization providers.

6. Can I get help with my winter heating bill?

• Yes. Apply for LIEAP during open enrollment at WV Utility Assistance (DHHR). Ask your utility about budget billing and hardship programs.

7. Is there a property tax break for seniors?

• Yes. The Homestead Exemption reduces the taxable value of your primary residence if you’re 65+ (or totally and permanently disabled). Contact the WV State Tax Department or your county assessor to apply.

8. I can’t drive anymore. How do I get to the doctor?

• If you have Medicaid, use NEMT. Otherwise, ask your AAA about senior rides or paratransit.

9. Where can I get legal help about benefits, housing, or elder abuse?

• Contact Legal Aid of West Virginia. For abuse or neglect, see WV DHHR Adult Services.

10. Are there programs just for veterans?

• Yes. Start with the WV Department of Veterans Assistance and explore VA healthcare and benefits at VA.gov. For housing instability, see VA Homeless Housing Resources.

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More Official Resources (Quick Links)

• West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services (program hub): WV Senior Services
• West Virginia Housing Development Fund (program directory): WVHDF Programs
• West Virginia DHHR (benefits, Medicaid, SNAP, LIEAP): WV DHHR
• USDA Rural Development (home repair): USDA RD – WV
• Medicare: Medicare.gov
• Social Security: SSA.gov
• Eldercare Locator (find local aging help): Eldercare Locator
• Legal Aid of West Virginia: Legal Aid WV
• 211 West Virginia: WV 211

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Application Tips and Reality Checks

• Apply early and expect delays for housing and repair programs. Keep contact info current to avoid being dropped from waitlists.
• Many programs verify income and assets; underreporting can cause denials or overpayment letters.
• If your situation changes (move, health, income), report it right away to each program to avoid problems later.
• Store documents in a simple folder. Bring the folder to every appointment.
• Don’t pay for help filling out government applications. Free help is available through your AAA, SHIP, or Legal Aid.

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Disclaimer

Program rules, funding levels, and eligibility change over time. This guide is for general information only. Always confirm details, deadlines, and required documents with the official agency linked in each section before you apply.

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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.