Grants for Seniors in Philadelphia

Grants and Financial Assistance for Seniors in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (2026 Authority Guide)

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated:

Key takeaways

  • Philadelphia has strong, city-specific help for seniors, including home repair grants, water and energy bill assistance, property tax relief, and free or low-cost transportation.
  • Start with Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA). They are the Area Agency on Aging for the city and can connect you to meals, home care, benefits enrollment, home modifications, and more. Call PCA Helpline: 215-765-9040 or visit the PCA website.
  • For utilities, look at LIHEAP (heating), PECO and PGW customer assistance programs, the City’s water bill help (TAP and senior discount), and emergency grants through UESF.
  • Homeowners can apply for free critical repairs and modifications through PHDC programs (BSRP, AMP, Weatherization). Renters can use the Fair Housing Commission and the Eviction Diversion Program to resolve disputes and avoid eviction filings.
  • Apply for statewide benefits (SNAP, Medicaid, LIHEAP) online through COMPASS. Many programs require proof of income, ID, and a recent bill.
  • Don’t wait if you’re behind on rent, utilities, or taxes. Many programs can help only before you’re in collections or court.

If you need emergency help

Use these contacts right away if you or someone you know is in crisis.

Need What to do Official contact
Life-threatening emergency Call 911 911
Mental health crisis or thoughts of suicide 24/7 talk/text/chat support Call or text 988, or visit the 988 Lifeline
Homelessness or someone sleeping outside City homeless outreach Call Philadelphia Homeless Outreach Hotline: 215-232-1984 (Project HOME), or see Homeless Services
Suspected elder abuse, neglect, exploitation (age 60+) 24/7 statewide elder abuse reporting Call 1-800-490-8505 (PA Elder Abuse Hotline) – PA Dept. of Aging
Domestic violence Local, confidential help Call Women Against Abuse 24/7: 1-866-723-3014, or the National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
Gas leak (smell gas) Leave area and call immediately PGW Emergency: 215-235-1212
Downed power line/outage Safety and outage reporting PECO Emergency/Outage: 1-800-841-4141

How to use this guide

  • If you’re not sure where to begin, call PCA at 215-765-9040. Ask for a benefits checkup and help applying.
  • If you need to apply for statewide benefits like SNAP, Medicaid (Medical Assistance), or LIHEAP, apply online via COMPASS: https://www.compass.state.pa.us/.
  • Keep a folder with: photo ID, Social Security number, proof of address, proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs), recent utility bills, lease or deed, and any medical documentation for disability-related programs. This speeds up approvals.

Housing, home repairs, utilities, and taxes

Free and low-cost home repairs (homeowners)

Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation (PHDC) runs several major repair programs for eligible low- and moderate-income homeowners. These are highly valued city services; demand is high and waitlists are common, so apply as early as possible.

Program (PHDC) What it does Who it helps (basics) How to apply
Basic Systems Repair Program (BSRP) Free repairs to critical systems like electrical, plumbing, heating Income-eligible owner-occupants in Philadelphia See PHDC – Basic Systems Repair Program
Adaptive Modifications Program (AMP) Free home modifications for people with disabilities (ramps, stair glides, bathroom modifications) Older adults and people with disabilities in owner-occupied homes See PHDC – Adaptive Modifications Program
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) Free energy-saving upgrades (insulation, air sealing) to lower bills Income-eligible homeowners and renters (with landlord approval) See PHDC – Weatherization Assistance Program
Restore Repair Renew (RRR) Low-interest home improvement loans through partner lenders Owner-occupants who may not qualify for traditional loans See PHDC – Restore Repair Renew

Reality check: These programs can have long waitlists and may pause when funding cycles reset. Apply and keep your contact info updated. If your heat is out in winter, also call the ECA Heater Hotline at 215-568-7190 (Energy Coordinating Agency) for emergency help: https://www.ecaphilly.org/.

Renters’ protections and help

  • Eviction Diversion Program: The City’s Eviction Diversion Program aims to resolve rent disputes before a landlord files in court. It often requires both sides to talk with a housing counselor or mediator. Learn how it works and start the process: https://www.phila.gov/programs/eviction-diversion-program/.
  • Fair Housing Commission (FHC): Handles unsafe housing conditions, illegal lockouts, and certain rent disputes. You can file a complaint directly: https://www.phila.gov/departments/fair-housing-commission/.
  • Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA): Apply for public housing and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8). Senior-designated developments exist; waiting lists open and close. Check status and apply when open: https://www.pha.phila.gov/.
  • Legal help: If you receive a notice to quit, a court complaint, or face unsafe conditions, get free legal advice from Community Legal Services (CLS) or Philadelphia Legal Assistance (PLA):

Utility bill assistance

Energy, gas, and water help is available from federal, state, city, and nonprofit programs. Apply early—some programs are seasonal and limited.

Utility Program What it does Where to apply
Heating (any utility) LIHEAP (PA Dept. of Human Services) Helps pay heating bills and may fund crisis heat repairs/restarts during the season LIHEAP info & application
Electric (PECO) PECO Customer Assistance Program (CAP), budget billing, grants Reduced bills based on income; can help with past-due balances PECO assistance options
Electric (PECO) LIURP (Low-Income Usage Reduction Program) Free weatherization and energy-saving measures PECO LIURP
Natural gas (PGW) Customer Responsibility Program (CRP) and other assistance Lower monthly payments and debt forgiveness for eligible customers PGW Assistance Programs
Water/sewer Tiered Assistance Program (TAP), Senior Citizen Discount, other help via WRAP Income-based water bills; senior discount for eligible customers; flexible payment agreements City Water Bill Help (WRAP/TAP)
Any utility (emergency) UESF (Utility Emergency Services Fund) One-time emergency grants to prevent shutoffs or restore service UESF utility grants

Reality check: LIHEAP has set open/close dates each year and may stop taking applications when funds run out. If LIHEAP is closed, focus on your utility’s customer assistance program and UESF.

Property tax relief (homeowners and some renters)

Program What it does Basics Where to learn more/apply
Homestead Exemption (Philadelphia) Lowers your taxable property value, reducing your tax bill Owner-occupied primary residences in the city Homestead Exemption
Senior Citizen Real Estate Tax Freeze (Philadelphia) Freezes your property tax bill from increasing if you qualify Age and income limits apply Senior Tax Freeze
Longtime Owner Occupants Program (LOOP) Limits big tax increases for longtime owners in changing neighborhoods Specific eligibility rules; not open every year LOOP
Owner-Occupied Payment Agreement (OOPA) Affordable payment plans to catch up on back taxes Income-based monthly payments OOPA
PA Property Tax/Rent Rebate (PTRR) Annual rebate for eligible homeowners and renters, including many seniors Income limits apply; Social Security may be partially counted PTRR Program (PA Dept. of Revenue)

Tip: Need help filing the PTRR claim or Homestead? PCA’s Benefits Enrollment Center can help you gather documents and apply: https://www.pcacares.org/services/benefits-enrollment-center/.

Food and nutrition

You can combine several food programs—SNAP, home-delivered meals, senior center lunches, and farmers’ market vouchers.

Program What it provides Who qualifies Where to apply
SNAP (Food Stamps) Monthly benefit on an EBT card to buy groceries Income-eligible individuals and households Learn & apply via COMPASS
PCA Meals (home-delivered & congregate) Meals for homebound seniors and lunches at senior centers Eligibility based on need; assessment may be required Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA)
Senior Food Box (CSFP) Monthly box of shelf-stable foods Income-eligible age 60+ Share Food Program – Senior Food Box
Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) Seasonal vouchers to buy fresh produce from local farmers Income-eligible age 60+ PA Dept. of Agriculture – SFMNP
Food pantries Free groceries at community sites Varies by pantry Find pantries via Share Food Program or Philabundance

Reality check: Home-delivered meals may have waitlists. If you need food now, use pantry finders and call 211 (United Way) for same-day options: https://www.pa211.org/.

Health care, Medicare, Medicaid, prescriptions, and caregiving

Need Program/Service What it does Where to start
Medicare counseling PA MEDI (formerly APPRISE) Free, unbiased help with Medicare enrollment, plan reviews, and appeals PA MEDI (PA Dept. of Aging)
Medicaid (Medical Assistance) Health coverage for low-income adults and people with disabilities Apply year-round; can work with Medicare for dual coverage Apply via COMPASS
Long-term services & supports Community HealthChoices (CHC) Manages home care, nursing home, and services to help you live at home PA DHS – CHC
Prescription help PACE/PACENET (PA) State prescription programs that lower drug costs for older adults PA Dept. of Aging – PACE/PACENET
Caregiver support PCA Caregiver Support Program Help for family caregivers: counseling, training, possible reimbursements PCA Caregiver Support
Dental care Medicaid dental (limited for adults), dental schools, community clinics Coverage varies; dental schools offer reduced-cost care PA DHS Medical Assistance; Penn Dental Medicine Clinics
Abuse/neglect Protective Services Investigates elder abuse, neglect, exploitation 1-800-490-8505; PA Dept. of Aging

Reality check: If you have both Medicare and Medicaid, ask PA MEDI to review your options for plans that include your doctors and medications. For in-home help, a needs assessment is required; there may be wait times and managed care steps under CHC.

Transportation and mobility

Tip: When you apply for paratransit or a Senior Fare Card, have ID, a recent photo, and any medical documentation requested.

Money, benefits enrollment, and consumer protection

Reality check: Be wary of anyone charging fees to “expedite” benefits or repairs. Most government aid applications are free. Never share bank info or your Medicare number by phone unless you initiated the call to a verified number.

Digital access and phones

Tip: If you relied on ACP, ask your provider about lower-cost plans for seniors. Comcast’s Internet Essentials is one example: https://www.internetessentials.com/.

Inclusive resources: Support tailored to your situation

LGBTQ+ seniors

Veteran seniors

Tip: Bring your DD-214 to appointments. A Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can help free of charge with claims and appeals.

Disabled seniors

Native/tribal-specific notes for Philadelphia

Pennsylvania has no federally recognized tribes. Native American seniors living in Philadelphia can use all city and state services listed in this guide. For federal elder services under the Older Americans Act Title VI and additional supports:

If you’re affiliated with a tribe outside Pennsylvania, your tribe’s elder program may also assist with documentation or referrals.

Homebound seniors and those with limited transportation

  • PCA in-home services, meals, and care management can bring services to you after an assessment: https://www.pcacares.org/.
  • SEPTA CCT Shared Ride Program for seniors: https://www.septa.org/cct/shared-ride/.
  • Ask your health plan (Medicare Advantage or CHC) about non-emergency medical transportation benefits to appointments.

Step-by-step: Where to start if money is tight

  1. Call PCA (215-765-9040) and ask for a benefits checkup.
  2. Apply via COMPASS for SNAP, Medicaid, and LIHEAP (when open): https://www.compass.state.pa.us/.
  3. If you’re behind on utilities:
    • Electric (PECO): join CAP and ask about LIURP.
    • Gas (PGW): enroll in CRP.
    • Water: apply for TAP or the Senior Discount; ask about WRAP support.
    • If shutoff is close, contact UESF for an emergency utility grant.
  4. If your home needs critical repairs: apply to PHDC’s BSRP, AMP, or Weatherization.
  5. For rent issues: enter Eviction Diversion early; contact CLS/PLA for legal help.
  6. For property taxes: file Homestead; ask about the Senior Tax Freeze or OOPA; check PTRR for an annual rebate.
  7. Set up transportation: get your SEPTA Senior Fare Card and, if needed, apply for CCT Paratransit.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: I can’t afford my water bill. What should I do first?
A: Apply for the Tiered Assistance Program (TAP) to lower your monthly bill and prevent shutoff. If you’re 65+, ask about the Senior Citizen Discount. Start here: https://www.phila.gov/water-bill-help/. If a shutoff is scheduled, contact the Utility Emergency Services Fund for an emergency grant: https://uesf.org/.

Q: How do I apply for LIHEAP in Philadelphia?
A: LIHEAP is run by the PA Department of Human Services. Apply online via COMPASS, by mail, or at a County Assistance Office. Details and current season dates: https://www.dhs.pa.gov/Services/Assistance/LIHEAP/Pages/default.aspx. Apply early—funds are limited.

Q: I received an eviction notice. Can I get help before court?
A: Yes. The Eviction Diversion Program helps tenants and landlords resolve issues before a filing. Contact the program as soon as you receive a notice: https://www.phila.gov/programs/eviction-diversion-program/. Also contact Community Legal Services (https://clsphila.org/) or Philadelphia Legal Assistance (https://www.philalegal.org/).

Q: I’m a homeowner with a leaking roof and no money. Is there a grant?
A: Apply to PHDC’s Basic Systems Repair Program (BSRP) for critical system repairs and to Weatherization for energy-saving improvements. Programs are popular and may have waitlists: https://phdcphila.org/residents/home-repair/.

Q: I live on Social Security. Can I lower my property taxes?
A: Apply for the Philadelphia Homestead Exemption and check if you qualify for the Senior Citizen Real Estate Tax Freeze. Also consider the PA Property Tax/Rent Rebate for an annual rebate. Program links are in the Property Tax Relief section above.

Q: How do I get a SEPTA Senior Fare Card?
A: Review eligibility and instructions on SEPTA’s website. You’ll need valid ID and a photo. Details: https://www.septa.org/fares/reduced/seniors/.

Q: Where can I get low-cost prescriptions?
A: Pennsylvania’s PACE and PACENET programs help many older adults with drug costs. Check the income guidelines and how to apply here: https://www.aging.pa.gov/aging-services/prescriptions/Pages/default.aspx.

Q: I’m caring for my spouse at home and I’m overwhelmed. What help is available?
A: Call PCA and ask about a needs assessment and the Caregiver Support Program. If you may qualify for long-term services and supports, ask about Community HealthChoices. PCA: https://www.pcacares.org/ | CHC: https://www.dhs.pa.gov/HealthChoices/HC-Services/CHC/Pages/default.aspx.

Q: Is the Affordable Connectivity Program still available?
A: Federal ACP funding ended in 2024. Check the FCC’s ACP page for updates: https://www.fcc.gov/acp. You may still qualify for the Lifeline program: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers.

Q: I think someone is taking my money. Who do I call?
A: If you’re in danger, call 911. For suspected financial exploitation, call the PA Elder Abuse Hotline at 1-800-490-8505 and report it. You can also file a consumer complaint with the PA Attorney General: https://www.attorneygeneral.gov/submit-a-complaint/consumer-complaint/.

Resources by neighborhood and citywide

Citywide “first stops”

Neighborhood examples (selected; call ahead to confirm hours and eligibility)

Tip: PCA’s site and helpline can direct you to the nearest senior center, meal site, or benefits counselor in your neighborhood.

Quick reference tables

Table: Emergency and crisis contacts (print-friendly)

Topic Contact
Emergencies 911
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call/Text 988 or visit https://988lifeline.org/
Homeless Outreach (Philadelphia) 215-232-1984 (Project HOME)
Elder Abuse Hotline (PA) 1-800-490-8505
Domestic Violence (Women Against Abuse) 1-866-723-3014
Gas Emergency (PGW) 215-235-1212
Power Outage (PECO) 1-800-841-4141

Table: Home repair and modification programs

Program Type Cost to you Link
BSRP (PHDC) Critical system repairs Free if eligible https://phdcphila.org/residents/home-repair/basic-systems-repair-program/
AMP (PHDC) Accessibility modifications Free if eligible https://phdcphila.org/residents/home-repair/adaptive-modifications-program/
Weatherization (PHDC) Energy efficiency Free if eligible https://phdcphila.org/residents/home-repair/weatherization-assistance-program/
Restore Repair Renew Home improvement loans Low-interest https://phdcphila.org/residents/home-repair/

Table: Utility assistance at a glance

Utility Main program Backup/extra help
Heating LIHEAP (PA DHS) ECA Heater Hotline (215-568-7190), UESF emergency grants
Electric (PECO) CAP, LIURP Budget billing, outage protections for medical needs (ask PECO)
Gas (PGW) CRP, payment agreements Emergency repair via licensed contractors; ask PGW about options
Water TAP, Senior Discount WRAP support, payment agreements via Revenue Department

Table: Food and nutrition supports

Program How it helps Where to start
SNAP Monthly grocery benefits https://www.compass.state.pa.us/
Senior Food Box (CSFP) Shelf-stable food monthly https://sharefoodprogram.org/what-we-do/senior-food-boxes/
PCA Meals Home-delivered and center meals https://www.pcacares.org/
SFMNP Farmers’ market produce vouchers https://www.agriculture.pa.gov/Food/food_assistance/SFMNP/Pages/default.aspx

Table: Taxes and property relief

Program Who should check this Link
Homestead Exemption All owner-occupants https://www.phila.gov/services/property-lots-and-housing/property-taxes/homestead-exemption/
Senior Tax Freeze Age 65+ with limited income https://www.phila.gov/services/payments-assistance-taxes/property-taxes/senior-citizen-real-estate-tax-freeze/
OOPA Payment Plan Homeowners behind on taxes https://www.phila.gov/services/payments-assistance-taxes/property-taxes/owner-occupied-real-estate-tax-payment-agreement/
PTRR (PA) Homeowners and renters with limited income https://www.revenue.pa.gov/IncentivesCreditsPrograms/PropertyTaxRentRebateProgram/Pages/default.aspx

Table: Health and caregiving

Need Program Link
Medicare choices PA MEDI counseling https://www.aging.pa.gov/aging-services/medicare-counseling/Pages/default.aspx
Medicaid application COMPASS https://www.compass.state.pa.us/
In-home services Community HealthChoices https://www.dhs.pa.gov/HealthChoices/HC-Services/CHC/Pages/default.aspx
Prescriptions PACE/PACENET https://www.aging.pa.gov/aging-services/prescriptions/Pages/default.aspx
Caregivers PCA Caregiver Support https://www.pcacares.org/

Reality checks, tips, and common roadblocks

  • Documents matter: Most denials happen because proof of income, ID, or bills was missing. Keep copies and submit everything requested. If you don’t have an ID, consider getting the Philadelphia Municipal ID to use while you replace other documents.
  • Timing matters: LIHEAP opens and closes each program year; PHDC repair programs can pause; PHA housing lists open and close. Set reminders to check application windows.
  • Keep your utility in the loop: Call your utility before you miss a payment. Getting into a customer assistance plan early can prevent shutoffs and extra fees.
  • Don’t go it alone: PCA’s Benefits Enrollment Center and local senior centers have staff who file these applications every day. Use them.
  • Beware of fees: Official government and utility assistance applications are free. Hang up if someone demands a fee to “guarantee” approval.

Sources and official references

Disclaimer

Program rules, funding, and eligibility can change. Always confirm details with the official agency or program website before you apply. This guide provides general information and links to official sources but is not legal, tax, or benefits advice.

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: December 2025
  • Sources Verified: December 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.

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About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.