Idaho is a state that has a lower cost of living than many of the others that surround it. As a result, many people have been leaving states that have a higher cost of living and moving to Idaho. Even with things being a bit more affordable in the state, there are still many seniors who struggle to make ends meet. The good news is that there are programs that offer financial assistance for seniors in Idaho.
The programs that provide financial assistance for seniors will help with purchasing groceries, paying their rent, paying utility bills, and more. There are programs in place to help with the cost of most basic needs. The programs are largely funded by the federal and state government, along with some non-profit organizations that help people in the community.
There is no limit to how many programs you can apply for, so be sure to apply for all those that could be of assistance to you at this time. By applying for all of the programs you will ensure that your basic needs are being met. Keep in mind that most of the programs will require that to be approved you have to meet low income guidelines and be a citizen or legal non-citizen.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Formerly called food stamps, this program is provided by the federal government and is the largest source of food assistance in the country. Those who have a low income and are a citizen or legal non-citizen may be approved for SNAP. The program will provide those who are approved with a way to purchase groceries each month. The government will provide those approved with a debit-style card that can be used each month to pay for food at the grocery store or some farmers markets. Each month, funds will be electronically loaded onto the card. The amount that you will receive is determined in part by how many people live in the home. There is no limit to how long you can get help through this program. To get more information, click here.
Salvation Army – Those who would like to get a free hot meal can often attend a Salvation Army location near them. Many locations have soup kitchens, which provide the public with free hot meals. They also have food pantries and will give people food to take home. They do this in addition to providing people with shelters, free clothing, bill payment assistance, and more. To find a location near you, click here.
The Idaho Foodbank – There are many food banks and pantries in Idaho, which will provide people with free food. The Idaho Foodbank offers a map of all of them, making it easy to find one in your area. Contact a food bank or pantry in your area to see how to get free food supplies. To get more information and find a location, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – The federal government created this agency with a mission of helping people in the country with their housing needs. Those who need help with paying their rent or locating affordable housing options can apply for help through this agency. HUD will also help with providing weatherization services and paying necessary home repair bills. They also own housing units that they will let people live in. To get help through HUD you have to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. To get more information and apply for the programs, click here.
Idaho Housing and Finance Association – This agency provides rent assistance for those who have a low income and are struggling. They also provide homelessness assistance. Those who have a low income and are a citizen or legal non-citizen can apply for their housing voucher program, which will help with paying rent. To get more information, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Seniors in Idaho who are struggling to pay their heating bills may want to apply for LIHEAP. This program is funded by the federal government and will help by paying one of your bills each season. You can re-apply for the program each season. If approved, they will send the funds directly to the provider on your behalf. To qualify, you have to have a low income. To get more assistance and apply, click here.
211 – This is a referral program provided by the United Way organization. Those who need financial assistance can call this number and they will help you find local programs that can help with your situation. In addition to helping you find programs that will pay utility bills, they can help you find programs that will help with anything you may be struggling with financially. Their service is free and open to everyone. To get more information about the program, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
Medicaid – To get help with paying medical bills, seniors who are under the age of 65 can apply for this federally funded program. If approved, Medicaid will help pay for going to the doctor, staying in the hospital, seeing a specialist, and obtaining prescription medications. To qualify, you have to met the low income guidelines and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. There is no limit to how long you can receive assistance from this program. As long as you continue to qualify for it you can receive the bill payment assistance. To get more information and apply, click here.
Medicare – This program is basically the same as the one listed above, only it is for those who are over the age of 65. Those who are over 65 and are a citizen or legal non-citizen will likely qualify for the assistance. The program does not have income requirements or limits on how long you can get medical bill payment assistance from it. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
