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

Senior Benefits and Assistance Programs in Wisconsin (2025 Guide)

Last updated: August 2025

This practical guide brings together the most current programs that help older adults in Wisconsin pay for healthcare, medications, food, housing, energy, transportation, and more. It includes how to apply, what to expect, and where to get one‑on‑one help.

Key Takeaways

• Use ACCESS Wisconsin to see what you qualify for and apply online for FoodShare (SNAP), Medicaid, SeniorCare Rx, and energy help.
• Most counties have an Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) that can walk you through benefits and local services.
• Expect waitlists for Section 8 vouchers and some home services. Apply early, get on lists, and keep paperwork current.
• Some pandemic-era programs (like statewide emergency rental aid) have ended. There are still options, but they’re more local.
• For Medicare questions and plan comparisons, Wisconsin’s free Medigap Helpline is a trusted, unbiased resource.

If You Need Emergency Help

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Wisconsin at a glance (older adults)

• About 1 in 5 Wisconsin residents are 65+ (American Community Survey 2023).
  Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2023 (table S0103): https://data.census.gov/table?tid=ACSST5Y2023.S0103

Reality check: Program rules and funding can change year to year. Always confirm details on the official site linked in each section.

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How to use this guide

• Skim the “At a Glance” tables for quick options.
• Use “How to apply” steps under each program.
• If you prefer personal help, call your county ADRC. Find yours here: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/index.htm

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Start here: Apply online and check eligibility

• ACCESS Wisconsin is the state’s portal to apply for FoodShare (SNAP), Medicaid, SeniorCare Rx, and to manage your benefits.
  Apply or check eligibility: https://access.wisconsin.gov/

Tips:

• Have your ID, Social Security number, proof of income, rent/mortgage, and utility bills.
• You can save your application and return later.
• If you prefer paper or in-person help, call your county/tribal agency listed inside ACCESS or ask your ADRC.

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Money and basic needs

Social Security and SSI/State Supplement

• Social Security retirement and survivors benefits: apply, replace cards, manage benefits.
  Social Security Administration: https://www.ssa.gov/
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for low-income older adults and people with disabilities; Wisconsin also pays a state supplement.
  Wisconsin SSI programs: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/ssi/index.htm

Reality check: SSI has strict income and asset rules. If you get denied, you can appeal. Local legal aid can help with appeals (see Legal Help below).

Food help

How to apply:

• FoodShare and many meal programs route through ACCESS or your county ADRC.
• For farmers’ market coupons and Meals on Wheels, call your ADRC to see if you qualify and where to sign up: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/index.htm

Reality check: Farmers’ market coupons are limited and may run out each season. Ask about waitlists and alternative produce boxes.

Energy, utilities, and phone

Important:

• The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) that gave internet discounts ended due to lack of funding in 2024. Some providers still offer senior/low-cost plans; ask your carrier and check the Public Service Commission’s broadband resources: https://psc.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/Broadband.aspx

How to apply:

• Use the WHEAP and Weatherization links or call 211 for your local intake agency. Bring recent utility bills, ID, and income proof.

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Healthcare, prescriptions, and long‑term care

Medicare basics in Wisconsin

• Original Medicare (Part A hospital, Part B medical): free choice of providers; pair with a Part D drug plan and optionally a Medigap policy for predictable costs.
  Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov/
• Medicare Advantage (Part C): private plans that include Part A and B, often Part D and extras (vision, dental). Lower premiums, managed networks.
  Compare plans: https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare
• Part D (drug coverage): standalone plan if you have Original Medicare.
  Plan finder: https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare

Unbiased counseling:

• Wisconsin Medigap Helpline (State SHIP): free counseling on Medigap, Advantage, and Part D options.
  Learn more and get the helpline numbers: https://longtermcare.wi.gov/Pages/Medigap.aspx
  Medicare counseling via DHS: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/benefit-specialists/medicare-counseling.htm

Reality check: The cheapest premium isn’t always the best deal. Check your doctors, medications, and travel needs before switching plans.

Wisconsin SeniorCare (state prescription program)

• State-run program for residents 65+ that helps pay for prescriptions; works alongside or instead of Part D.
  Details and enrollment: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/seniorcare/index.htm

Tips:

• SeniorCare has a small annual enrollment fee and income-based copays/deductibles. Check your income level benefits on the official site linked above.
• You can enroll in SeniorCare anytime; it may reduce late-enrollment penalties for Part D.

Medicaid for older adults (EBD Medicaid)

• Medicaid for the Elderly, Blind, or Disabled (EBD) helps with medical costs for low-income seniors, including premiums, copays, and some long‑term care.
  Seniors & Medicaid info: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/medicaid/seniors.htm (apply at ACCESS: https://access.wisconsin.gov/)
• Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/SLMB+): Medicaid programs that help pay Medicare Part B premiums and sometimes deductibles/copays.
  Learn more: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/medicaid/publications/p10062.pdf

Long‑term care (at home or in a facility)

• Family Care: Manages long‑term services (home care, adult day care, respite, equipment) for eligible adults who need help with daily activities.
  https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/familycare/index.htm
• Family Care Partnership: Combines long‑term services with full medical care under one plan.
  https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/familycare/partnership.htm
• IRIS (Include, Respect, I Self‑Direct): Self-directed program where you choose services and caregivers, with a monthly budget.
  https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/iris/index.htm

How to start:

• Contact your county ADRC for a functional screen and options counseling: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/index.htm

Advocacy and complaints:

• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman (for issues in nursing homes and assisted living): https://longtermcare.wi.gov/

Non‑emergency medical rides:

• Medicaid members can get rides to covered medical visits and pharmacies (non‑emergency medical transportation).
  How it works and how to schedule: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/nemt/index.htm

Assistive technology:

• WisTech program provides device loans, demos, reuse, and help paying for assistive technology (hearing, vision, mobility, communication).
  https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/wistech/index.htm

Hearing and communication support:

• Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing: communication access, equipment, and resources.
  https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/odhh/index.htm

Vision health:

• Prevent Blindness Wisconsin (screenings, resources): https://wisconsin.preventblindness.org/

Dental care:

• Dental Lifeline Network – Wisconsin (free comprehensive care for eligible seniors with disabilities or fragile health; application waitlists common): https://dentallifeline.org/wisconsin/
• Marquette University School of Dentistry (reduced-cost clinics): https://www.marquette.edu/dentistry/patients/
• Find low‑cost dental clinics (FQHCs): https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/
• Wisconsin Oral Health Program (state resources): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/oral-health/index.htm

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Housing, rent, and home repairs

Renting and affordable apartments

Reality check: Expect long waits for HCV and some properties. Applying to multiple properties and checking smaller towns can improve your chances.

Home repair and accessibility

• USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504): grants for very low‑income homeowners 62+ to remove health/safety hazards; larger low‑interest loans also available.
  Wisconsin program page: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/wi
• Wisconsin Weatherization Assistance Program: free energy fixes like insulation and air sealing for eligible households.
  https://energyandhousing.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/Weatherization.aspx
• CDBG Housing Rehabilitation (varies by community): zero‑interest/forgivable loans for repairs.
  County/municipal programs: https://energyandhousing.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/CDBGHousing.aspx

Tips:

• Get written estimates from licensed contractors.
• Ask if the grant/loan places a lien or requires payback if you sell within a time period.

Property tax and homeowner help

Foreclosure avoidance:

• Call 211 to find a HUD‑approved housing counselor in your area.
• If you have a VA loan, contact the VA right away for options: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/home-loans/trouble-making-payments/

Note on pandemic programs:

• Wisconsin Help for Homeowners (HAF) closed to new applications. The DOA site posts status and homeowner resources: https://doa.wi.gov/Pages/LocalGovtsGrants/Homeowner-Assistance.aspx
• Statewide emergency rental assistance (WERA) has ended. Check 211 and your county Human Services for any local aid or short‑term help: https://211wisconsin.org/

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Transportation

• County Elderly & Disabled Specialized Transportation (WisDOT 85.21): Counties receive funds to provide shared‑ride vans, bus tickets, volunteer driver rides to medical appointments, senior dining sites, shopping, and more.
  Program overview: https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/doing-bus/local-gov/astnce-pgms/transit/85-21.aspx
  Ask your county ADRC for your local options: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/index.htm
• ADA paratransit (cities with fixed-route transit): Door‑to‑door rides for those who cannot use regular buses due to disability—apply through your local transit agency.
• Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation for Medicaid members: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/nemt/index.htm

Tip: Schedule rides 24–48 hours ahead when possible; ask about mileage reimbursement if a friend or family member can drive you.

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Work, volunteering, and income boosts

• Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP): Paid part‑time training jobs for people 55+ with limited income.
  Find your local SCSEP grantee: https://www.careeronestop.org/LocalHelp/SCSEP/find-senior-community-service-employment-program.aspx
• Wisconsin Senior Employment Program (WISE): State program that helps older adults find part‑time opportunities and skill building.
  Learn more: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/wise/index.htm
• Wisconsin Job Centers (resume help, job search, workshops): https://jobcenterofwisconsin.com/

Reality check: SCSEP has income limits and waitlists. Ask about virtual options and short-term projects if mobility is an issue.

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Consumer protection, scams, and elder abuse

• Report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation to county Adult Protective Services: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/aps/aar-agencies.htm
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman for concerns in facilities: https://longtermcare.wi.gov/
• Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) for scams, fraud, and complaints: https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Programs_Services/ConsumerProtection.aspx
• Identity theft help (WI DOJ): https://www.doj.state.wi.us/dls/identity-theft-and-privacy-protection

Tip: Never pay fees to “guarantee” government benefits. When in doubt, call your ADRC before sharing personal information.

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Inclusive resources

LGBTQ+ older adults

• Milwaukee LGBT Community Center (older adult programming and support): https://www.mkelgbt.org/
• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline (support and referrals): https://www.sageusa.org/
  Tip: Ask your ADRC about LGBTQ+‑friendly providers in your area.

Veterans and military families

• Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) benefits, grants, and services: https://dva.wi.gov/
  Financial grants: https://dva.wi.gov/Pages/benefitsClaims/Financial-Grants.aspx
  Veteran Outreach & Recovery Program (VORP): https://dva.wi.gov/Pages/benefitsclaims/VORP.aspx
  Find your County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO): https://dva.wi.gov/Pages/benefitsClaims/FindYourCVSO.aspx
• Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit: https://dva.wi.gov/Pages/benefitsClaims/DisabledVetPropertyTaxCredit.aspx
• VA Aid & Attendance for help with daily activities (add‑on to VA pension): https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/

Seniors with disabilities

• ADRC: options counseling, assistive devices, in‑home supports: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/index.htm
• WisTech Assistive Technology: device lending, reuse, and funding help: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/wistech/index.htm
• Paratransit and NEMT: see Transportation section.

American Indian/Tribal members

• Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council (elder services and Title VI nutrition; varies by tribe): https://www.glitc.org/
• DHS Tribal Affairs (connections to tribal health and aging services): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/tribalaffairs/index.htm
• Older Americans Act Title VI (Tribal aging programs): https://olderindians.acl.gov/programs/title-vi
• Indian Health Service – Bemidji Area: https://www.ihs.gov/bemidji/

Tip: Start with your Tribe’s aging office or health clinic for nutrition, transport, and caregiver support under Title VI.

Rural seniors and limited-access areas

• Call 211 to locate mobile food pantries, volunteer driver programs, and visiting nurse services: https://211wisconsin.org/
• PSC Broadband resources for service options in low-coverage areas: https://psc.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/Broadband.aspx
• Use mail‑order pharmacy (check with SeniorCare/Part D plan) and telehealth—ask your ADRC if devices or hotspots are available through local loan programs.

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Program quick-lookup tables

Health & long‑term care at a glance

Food & utilities at a glance

Housing and home repair at a glance

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Resources by region (examples; call your ADRC for more)

• Milwaukee County Department on Aging (ADRC and services): https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/Division-on-Aging
  Tenant help: https://www.tenantresourcecenter.org/ (serves Dane; info resources available statewide)
  Legal aid (Milwaukee): https://www.legalaction.org/
• Dane County ADRC: https://www.daneadrc.org/
  Housing assistance info, tenant support: https://www.tenantresourcecenter.org/
• Brown County (Green Bay) ADRC: https://adrcofbrowncounty.org/
• Waukesha County ADRC: https://www.waukeshacounty.gov/ADRC/
• Racine County ADRC: https://www.racinecounty.com/departments/human-services/aging-disability-resource-center-adrc
  Kenosha County ADRC: https://www.kenoshacounty.org/342/Aging-Disability-Resource-Center
• Northern Wisconsin (multi-county): ADRC of the North: https://adrcnorth.org/
  Legal (northern WI): Wisconsin Judicare: https://www.judicare.org/

Tip: If your county isn’t listed, find your ADRC here: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/index.htm

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How to apply well (and avoid delays)

• Keep copies of ID, Social Security card, Medicare card, lease/mortgage, utility bills, and recent bank/income statements.
• Use ACCESS Wisconsin for FoodShare, Medicaid, SeniorCare: https://access.wisconsin.gov/
• Answer all mail quickly; missing verifications cause denials.
• If you’re denied, call your ADRC. Many issues are fixable with the right document or appeal.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Where do I start if I’m not sure what I qualify for?
A: Use the screener on ACCESS Wisconsin: https://access.wisconsin.gov/ and then call your county ADRC for help with next steps: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/index.htm

Q: Is SeniorCare better than Medicare Part D?
A: It depends on your medication list and income. SeniorCare can be a lower-cost option for many. Compare copays and coverage using the SeniorCare site and Medicare’s Plan Finder.
SeniorCare: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/seniorcare/index.htm • Medicare Plan Finder: https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare

Q: Are there still rental assistance programs like during the pandemic?
A: The statewide WERA program ended. Some local programs offer short-term help, but funding is limited. Call 211 or your ADRC to see current local options: https://211wisconsin.org/

Q: Can someone help me pick a Medicare plan?
A: Yes. Wisconsin’s Medigap Helpline and Part D counseling are unbiased and free: https://longtermcare.wi.gov/Pages/Medigap.aspx

Q: How do I get a ramp or bathroom grab bars?
A: Ask your ADRC about Family Care/IRIS (if you meet functional and financial rules) or local CDBG rehab programs. Some nonprofits also help.
ADRC: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/index.htm • CDBG Housing: https://energyandhousing.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/CDBGHousing.aspx

Q: Who can help with property taxes on a fixed income?
A: Look at the Homestead Credit and WHEDA’s Property Tax Deferral Loan program.
Homestead Credit: https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/Individuals/homestead.aspx • WHEDA: https://www.wheda.com/homeowners/

Q: I need a ride to the doctor and don’t drive.
A: If you have Medicaid, use the state’s NEMT program. Otherwise, ask your ADRC about county specialized transportation or volunteer drivers.
NEMT: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/nemt/index.htm • ADRC: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/index.htm

Q: What if I suspect a scam?
A: Report to Wisconsin Consumer Protection (DATCP) and tell your ADRC.
DATCP: https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Programs_Services/ConsumerProtection.aspx

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Resource links (official sources)

• Apply/manage benefits: ACCESS Wisconsin: https://access.wisconsin.gov/
• ADRC (find local help): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/index.htm
• SeniorCare Rx: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/seniorcare/index.htm
• Medicaid for Seniors: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/medicaid/seniors.htm
• Medicare counseling: https://longtermcare.wi.gov/Pages/Medigap.aspx
• FoodShare (SNAP): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/foodshare/index.htm
• Elderly Nutrition: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/aging/nutrition.htm
• WHEAP (energy help): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/keepwarm/index.htm
• Weatherization: https://energyandhousing.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/Weatherization.aspx
• Lifeline (phone): https://psc.wi.gov/Pages/ForConsumers/Lifeline.aspx
• HUD apartments (WI): https://www.hud.gov/states/wisconsin/renting/localapts
• Section 8 housing authorities: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/wi
• USDA 504 home repair (WI): https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/wi
• Homestead Credit: https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/Individuals/homestead.aspx
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: https://longtermcare.wi.gov/
• Adult Protective Services: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/aps/aar-agencies.htm
• 211 Wisconsin: https://211wisconsin.org/

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Disclaimer

Program details (eligibility, funding, benefits, and contacts) change over time. Always confirm information with the official agency or website linked in this guide. This article 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.