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

Last updated: August 2025

Key takeaways

• If you’re in danger or without heat, food, or shelter, skip ahead to “If You Need Emergency Help” for fast contacts.
• Most aid in Oregon flows through a few “front doors”: ADRC of Oregon for aging services, local Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), Community Action Agencies (for energy, weatherization, some rent help), and Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) for healthcare and rides.
• Popular programs have waitlists or limited funding (Section 8, home repair, some rental help). Apply early, sign up for alerts, and be flexible with options.
• For property owners, the Oregon Senior and Disabled Property Tax Deferral can be a major relief if you qualify.
• To lower bills fast: check Oregon Lifeline for phone/internet discounts, LIHEAP for heating help, and your utility’s own discount programs.

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If you need emergency help

• Call 911 if you’re in immediate danger or a medical emergency.
• Call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7).
• Adult abuse or neglect: Oregon Abuse Hotline 1-855-503-SAFE (7233) or visit the Oregon DHS Report Abuse page.
• Shelter, food, bill help: Dial 211 or visit 211info to find local resources.
• Extreme weather (cooling/warming centers): Check 211info’s weather page or your county emergency management website.

Table: Quick emergency and urgent contacts

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How to use this guide

• This guide links straight to official pages so you can apply or call the right office.
• Program rules and funding change. Always confirm details on the official site before you apply.
• Keep a folder with your ID, Social Security number, proof of income, rent/mortgage, and utility bills. It speeds up applications.

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At-a-glance: major Oregon programs

Table: Key programs and where to start

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Money and benefits

Social Security and SSI/SSP

• Social Security retirement and disability benefits are federal. Learn and apply at the Social Security Administration.
• If your income is very low, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Oregon adds a small State Supplement Payment (SSP) for some SSI recipients. See Oregon SSP program info and apply for SSI at SSA.

Reality check: SSI amounts and SSP eligibility change annually. If you’re close to the income/resource limits, speak with an advocate at Legal Aid Services of Oregon or your local AAA via ADRC of Oregon.

Oregon Medicare Savings Programs (help with Medicare costs)

• Programs like QMB, SLMB, and QI can pay your Part B premium and sometimes deductibles/coinsurance. Income and asset limits change each year.
• Get free, unbiased help comparing your options from Oregon’s SHIBA counselors.

Learn more: Oregon SHIBA program | Medicare Savings Programs overview (Medicare.gov)

Property tax help

• Oregon Senior and Disabled Property Tax Deferral lets eligible homeowners 62+ or disabled defer property taxes on their primary home. The state pays your taxes and places a lien; amounts are repaid when the home is sold or no longer qualifies.
• Check eligibility, deadlines, and forms at Oregon Department of Revenue’s Property Tax Deferral page.

Tip: Apply early in the year—deadlines matter. Have proof of income, homeownership, and homeowners insurance ready.

Utility and phone bill help

• LIHEAP: Apply through your local Community Action Agency for heating/cooling help and sometimes crisis assistance. See OHCS Utility Bill Payment Assistance and use their locator.
• Weatherization Assistance: Free energy upgrades that can reduce bills long-term (insulation, air sealing, safety fixes). See OHCS Energy and Weatherization.
• Oregon Lifeline (phone/internet): Monthly discount on phone or broadband service for low-income households and eligible Tribal members. Check current discounts and apply at Oregon Lifeline (OPUC).
• Internet: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has been paused due to lack of funding. Check the FCC’s ACP page for current status before applying. Some providers still offer low-cost plans; ask your ISP and see Oregon Lifeline.

Also check your utility’s own discount programs:

• Portland General Electric Bill Discount Program
• Pacific Power Bill Assistance
• NW Natural Bill Assistance and discount programs
• Portland Water Bureau financial assistance

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Housing and rent assistance

Reality check: Most rental programs in Oregon have waitlists. Apply to multiple options, and check back for openings.

Section 8 (Housing Choice Vouchers) and Public Housing

• Section 8 vouchers help cover a portion of rent in private apartments. Priority often goes to seniors, people with disabilities, and very low-income households.
• Public Housing is owned by Housing Authorities. Some developments are senior-only.
• Find your local Housing Authority and current waitlist status via OHCS Find Affordable Housing and HUD’s Oregon housing authorities list.

Learn more: HUD Housing Choice Voucher program | HUD Public Housing

Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly

• Federally funded senior apartments for people 62+ with very low incomes; many offer on-site supports (service coordinators, accessibility features).
• Search for “Senior Apartments” under HUD resources: HUD Multifamily for seniors and people with disabilities.

Affordable rentals and local help

• OHCS Affordable Rental Housing list: Statewide list of income-restricted properties; ask about senior units and waitlists.
• Community Action Agencies: Some provide short-term rent assistance when funds are available; also help with deposit/move-in costs. Use the Community Action Network directory.

Coordinated Entry for homelessness: If you’re homeless or at immediate risk, call 211 or your county’s Coordinated Entry program to be screened and connected to shelter and housing resources.

Property tax deferral (owners)

See “Money and benefits” above—this can be the single biggest housing relief for qualifying homeowners.

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Home repair, accessibility, and weatherization

Table: Home repair and accessibility programs

Also look for city and nonprofit options:

• Portland-area: Check the Portland Housing Bureau Home Repair resources, REACH CDC Community Builders, and Habitat for Humanity home repair programs.
• Rural counties: Your AAA and Community Action Agency can point you to local CDBG-funded repair programs if available.

Reality check: Repair programs often have income limits, ownership and insurance requirements, and waitlists. USDA grants must be repaid if the home is sold within three years. Apply early and ask about priority criteria (health/safety, seniors, disability status).

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Healthcare and long-term care

Oregon Health Plan (OHP/Medicaid)

• OHP covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, dental, vision, mental health, and long-term services and supports for eligible adults.
• Long-term care options include in-home caregivers, adult foster homes, assisted living, and nursing homes. Many services are delivered through Community First Choice (“K Plan”) and waiver programs.

Learn more and apply: Oregon Health Plan overview | Apply for OHP

Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT): If you have OHP, you can get rides to covered medical and dental appointments through regional ride brokers. Ask your Coordinated Care Organization (CCO) or see OHP transportation information.

Medicare and help with costs

• Compare plans, review drug coverage, and check Extra Help eligibility with free counseling from SHIBA.
• Medicare Savings Programs may pay Part B premiums and more if you qualify. See SHIBA or Medicare.gov for current limits and application help.

In-home help without Medicaid

• Oregon Project Independence (OPI) provides limited in-home supports (personal care, housekeeping, caregiver respite) for adults 60+ who aren’t on Medicaid long-term care. Fees may be on a sliding scale.
• To check availability and apply, contact ADRC of Oregon or your local AAA.

Dental care

• OHP includes dental care. If you’re on OHP, call your dental plan or CCO for providers.
• If you don’t have coverage and need major dental work, see Dental Lifeline Network – Oregon (Donated Dental Services) for free care for those who are elderly, have disabilities, or are medically fragile.

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Food and nutrition

• SNAP (Food Stamps): Monthly benefits to buy groceries. Many older adults qualify even if they own a home or car. Apply online or by phone. Learn more at About SNAP in Oregon.
• Meals on Wheels and congregate meals: Contact your AAA via ADRC of Oregon or, in the Portland metro area, Meals on Wheels People.
• Senior Farm Direct Nutrition Program (SFDNP): Provides checks for locally grown produce to eligible seniors each summer. See SFDNP details.
• Food pantries: The Oregon Food Bank network can connect you with local pantries and produce distributions.

Reality check: SNAP benefit amounts vary. Many seniors qualify even with modest savings. If you were denied before, try again—rules change and deductions for medical costs can help.

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Transportation

Table: Transportation options for seniors

Tip: If you need help getting from your door into the clinic, say so when you book the ride. Ask if a door-to-door or door-through-door ride is available.

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Legal and advocacy

• Legal Aid Services of Oregon and Oregon Law Center: Free civil legal help for eligible seniors (housing, benefits, consumer issues).
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Advocates for residents in nursing homes, assisted living, and adult foster homes. File complaints and get help at Oregon Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
• Elder abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation: Report 24/7 to the Oregon Abuse Hotline at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).

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Inclusive resources

LGBTQ+ seniors

• SAGE Metro Portland (Friendly House): Social connection, case management referrals, trainings for inclusive care.
• Q Center (Portland): Community programs and referrals, including for older adults.
• For statewide support and care navigation, contact ADRC of Oregon and ask for inclusive providers.

Veteran seniors

• Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA): Pensions, pensions with Aid & Attendance, state benefits, and links to County Veteran Service Officers (VSOs). Start with ODVA or find your County VSO.
• VA Aid & Attendance: Extra monthly amount for veterans/surviving spouses who need help with daily activities or are housebound. See VA’s Aid and Attendance page.

Reality check: Aid & Attendance claims can take months. A VSO can help you gather medical evidence to speed decisions and avoid scams.

Disabled seniors

• OSIPM (Oregon Supplemental Income Program-Medical): Medicaid pathway for people who are aged, blind, or disabled with limited income/resources. Get help applying via ADRC of Oregon.
• Home modifications and accessibility: See home repair table above; talk to your AAA about options and fall-prevention programs.

Tribal-specific resources

Oregon has nine federally recognized Tribes. Many offer elders programs, health services, and Tribal TANF/assistance:

• Oregon Tribal Government Directory (official directory)
• Indian Health Service – Portland Area (Oregon, Washington, Idaho)
• Examples of Tribal elder services include the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, and others. Contact your Tribe’s elders program for details.

Tip: Elders may be eligible for services regardless of county programs. Ask your Tribe about transportation, home repair, and caregiver support.

Rural seniors and limited access

• Use ADRC of Oregon to find mobile clinics, home-delivered meals, and local ride options.
• Consider telehealth with your primary care provider; OHP and many Medicare Advantage plans cover telehealth.
• Libraries and senior centers often help with online applications and printing/copying.

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Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Waitlists are normal for housing and home repairs. Put your name on multiple lists. Keep phone numbers up to date.
• Watch for fees and liens. Property tax deferral places a lien; some repair grants must be repaid if you sell soon after.
• Keep copies. Save every application and letter. Write down who you spoke with and when.
• Don’t pay for benefits advice. SHIBA and ADRC counseling are free. Be wary of anyone asking for upfront fees or personal info by text/email.
• Reapply if denied. Use an advocate from Legal Aid or your AAA to appeal or correct paperwork.

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Resources by region

Statewide “front doors”

• ADRC of Oregon (aging and disability help): 1-855-ORE-ADRC (1-855-673-2372) | ADRC of Oregon
• 211info (basic needs, housing, food, bills): Dial 211 | 211info.org
• Community Action Agencies (energy, weatherization, some rent help): Community Action Network directory
• Oregon SHIBA (Medicare help): SHIBA program
• Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid): OHP overview and application
• Oregon Dept. of Revenue (Property Tax Deferral): Property Tax Deferral

Portland Metro (Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas)

• Meals on Wheels People (Portland metro)
• Ride Connection (free/reduced rides)
• Home repairs: Washington County HARDE | Clackamas Home Repair & Accessibility | Portland Housing Bureau Home Repair
• TriMet Honored Citizen fares

Willamette Valley (Marion, Polk, Linn, Benton, Lane)

• City of Eugene Accessibility Improvement Program
• Local AAAs via ADRC of Oregon
• Community Action Agencies: e.g., Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action (check CAPO directory)

Southern Oregon (Jackson, Josephine, Douglas)

• Local AAAs via ADRC of Oregon
• Community Action (energy/weatherization) via CAPO directory
• RVTD (Rogue Valley Transit) reduced-fare programs

Central and Eastern Oregon (Deschutes, Crook, Jefferson, Umatilla, Union, Baker, Malheur, etc.)

• Local AAAs and Community Action via ADRC and CAPO
• Check your county transit for senior rides and dial-a-ride options

Oregon Coast (Clatsop to Curry)

• Local AAAs via ADRC of Oregon
• Transit: coastal dial-a-ride systems; check your county transit site
• Community Action for LIHEAP and weatherization

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: I’m over income by a little for a program. Should I still apply?
A: Yes—some programs allow deductions (like medical costs for SNAP) or have different limits for seniors. A SHIBA or ADRC counselor can check for exceptions and alternatives.

Q: How do I find open Section 8 waitlists?
A: Check your local Housing Authority’s website frequently and sign up for alerts. Also watch OHCS’s Find Affordable Housing page and 211info. Openings may last only a few days.

Q: Is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) still available?
A: Funding was paused in 2024. Check the FCC’s ACP page for current status. In the meantime, apply for Oregon Lifeline and ask your internet provider about low-cost plans.

Q: What’s the fastest way to lower my utility bills?
A: Apply for LIHEAP at your Community Action Agency, sign up for Oregon Lifeline (phone/internet), and contact your utility for a discount plan or payment arrangement. Weatherization provides lasting savings but may take longer.

Q: I own my home but can’t afford the property taxes. What can I do?
A: Look into Oregon’s Senior and Disabled Property Tax Deferral. If eligible, the state pays your taxes and places a lien. Start at the Oregon Department of Revenue’s deferral page.

Q: How can I get rides to the doctor?
A: If you’re on OHP (Medicaid), call your plan’s ride broker (NEMT). In the Portland area, Ride Connection helps with medical and daily rides. Many transit agencies offer senior fares.

Q: Can I get in-home help without being on Medicaid?
A: Ask about Oregon Project Independence (OPI) through your AAA. Availability varies by county and funding. Private pay home care and Veterans’ benefits (Aid & Attendance) are other options.

Q: Where do I report elder fraud or abuse?
A: Call the Oregon Abuse Hotline at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). For scams, you can also contact the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Protection.

Q: What if I don’t use the internet?
A: Call ADRC of Oregon (1-855-673-2372). They can mail forms, help you apply by phone, or refer you to local offices and counselors.

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Resources (official links)

• ADRC of Oregon (aging and disability help): https://www.adrcoforegon.org
• Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid): https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HSD/OHP/Pages/index.aspx
• Apply for OHP: https://one.oregon.gov/
• SHIBA (Medicare counseling): https://dfr.oregon.gov/insure/health/medicare/Pages/shiba.aspx
• Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov/
• Medicare Savings Programs: https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs
• SNAP (food benefits) in Oregon: https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/assistance/food-benefits/Pages/about-snap.aspx
• Senior Farm Direct Nutrition Program: https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/seniors-disabilities/sua/pages/sfdnp.aspx
• Oregon Housing & Community Services – Utility help and weatherization: https://www.oregon.gov/ohcs/energy-weatherization/Pages/utility-bill-payment-assistance.aspx
• OHCS Improve a Home (repair programs overview): https://www.oregon.gov/ohcs/homeownership/Pages/improve-a-home.aspx
• Find Affordable Housing (OHCS): https://www.oregon.gov/ohcs/housing-assistance/Pages/find-affordable-housing.aspx
• HUD Housing Choice Voucher: https://www.hud.gov/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8
• HUD Public Housing: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/programs/ph
• HUD senior housing (Section 202 overview): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/mfh/progdesc/eld202
• USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Oregon office locator): https://www.rd.usda.gov/contact-page/oregon-contacts
• Oregon Lifeline (phone/internet discount): https://www.oregon.gov/puc/pages/oregon-lifeline.aspx
• FCC ACP status page: https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/
• Oregon Dept. of Revenue – Property Tax Deferral: https://www.oregon.gov/dor/programs/property/pages/deferral.aspx
• Dental Lifeline Network – Oregon: https://dentallifeline.org/oregon/
• Meals on Wheels People (Portland metro): https://www.mowp.org/
• Oregon Food Bank: https://www.oregonfoodbank.org/
• Ride Connection (Portland metro): https://rideconnection.org/
• TriMet Honored Citizen fares: https://trimet.org/fares/
• Oregon Abuse Hotline: https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/abuse/Pages/report.aspx
• Oregon Long-Term Care Ombudsman: https://www.oltco.org/
• Legal Aid Services of Oregon: https://lasoregon.org/
• Oregon Law Center: https://oregonlawcenter.org/
• ODVA (Oregon Dept. of Veterans’ Affairs): https://www.oregon.gov/odva
• Find your County Veteran Service Office: https://www.oregon.gov/odva/Services/Pages/County-Services.aspx
• VA Aid & Attendance: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Oregon Tribal Government Directory: https://www.oregon.gov/gov/Pages/tribal.aspx
• IHS – Portland Area: https://www.ihs.gov/portland/
• Friendly House SAGE Metro Portland: https://www.friendlyhouse.org/sage
• Q Center (Portland): https://www.pdxqcenter.org/
• Community Action Network directory (CAPO): https://caporegon.org/who-we-are/the-community-action-network/
• 211info: https://www.211info.org/

Utility provider assistance pages (examples)

• Portland General Electric Bill Discount: https://portlandgeneral.com/help/pay/financial-assistance
• Pacific Power Oregon assistance: https://www.pacificpower.net/assistance
• NW Natural assistance: https://www.nwnatural.com/billing-payment/assistance
• Portland Water Bureau financial assistance: https://www.portland.gov/water/financial-assistance

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Application tips and documents checklist

Have these handy:

• Photo ID and Social Security number
• Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs)
• Bank statements (if required)
• Rent or mortgage statement; utility bills
• Medicare/OHP card
• Proof of disability (if applicable)

Tips:

• Ask for help filling forms—AAAs, SHIBA, Legal Aid, and libraries often assist for free.
• If mobility is an issue, request phone or home-visit options.
• Keep copies of everything you submit.

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Additional tables

Table: Cost relief programs for homeowners and renters

Table: Who to call for what

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Disclaimer

Program details, eligibility rules, and funding can change at any time. Always confirm the latest information with the official agency or program website before applying. This guide is for general information 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.