While Iowa has a lower cost of living, there are still people who struggle financially who live in the state. There are many seniors fall into this category, because they live on a fixed income, and they may be hit with unexpected expenses. No matter what the reason why, it is important that they know where to turn for programs that provide financial assistance for seniors in Iowa, so they can have their basic needs met at all times.
Having access to programs that will help during financially challenging times is crucial for seniors. The programs, which are often funded by the federal and state government, will ensure that seniors have their basic needs met. Plus, they don’t ever have to worry about paying anything back, because it is not considered a loan. The financial help that people receive through the programs is considered a gift to help those in need in the community.
There are programs that are also offered by non-profit organizations that have a mission of helping people in the community who need financial assistance. In addition to the programs below, seniors can also reach out to their local churches to see if they can get financial assistance for various things. Many of them will provide a range of helpful services for those in the community. You do not usually have to be a member of the church to get assistance.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Obtaining food assistance is important for every senior who is struggling financially. This program is an important one to apply for, because it is the largest provider of food assistance in the country. Formerly called food stamps and often still referred to it as that, this program will provide those who qualify with a way to pay for their groceries at the store and some farmers markets. To qualify, you have to be a citizen or legal non-citizen and meet the low income requirements that they require. Those who are approved for SNAP will receive a debit-style card that will have funds electronically loaded onto it each month, and that card can be used to pay for groceries. There is no limit to how long you can get help through SNAP. To get more information and apply, click here.
Catholic Charities – This faith-based charitable program provides food assistance to those in need in the community. They offer free meals, a food pantry, and more. They have locations around the state and they will help everyone in the community who needs it. You do not have to be religious to get assistance through this program. To get more information and find a location near you, click here.
Food Bank of Iowa – This organization can help seniors find food banks and food pantries in their local area. They are great places to go to for help obtaining food. They will often give you boxes or bags of food that you can take home. Some have their pantries set up like stores that allow you to shop for the items you want and need. To find a pantry or food bank near you, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Housing assistance is crucial for seniors who are struggling financially, because it is often the one thing that costs the most. HUD is a federal agency that was created to help people with their housing needs. The agency offers several programs to help people who need assistance with their housing needs. Some of the programs they provide is to offer government owned housing units, rental assistance, help finding affordable housing options, weatherization services, and help paying for housing repairs. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Iowa Finance Authority – This organization offers a rent subsidy program that will help seniors and others who need financial assistance to pay their rent. To qualify, you have to be at least 18, live in a qualified rental unit, show that you are responsible for paying more than 30% of your income for your rent, and have been turned down for rent assistance through HUD. To get more information and apply, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Seniors can get financial assistance for their heating and cooling bills by applying for this federally funded program. LIHEAP will pay for a utility bill if you are qualified. To qualify for the assistance, you have to be the person responsible for paying the bill and show that you have a low income. You will need to re-apply each year for this program. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
211 – Seniors can get information about local referral programs by calling this number, which is provided by the United Way organization. They have a database of local financial assistance programs and they will look through it to find programs that will help with your needs. The service is free to use and open to everyone. To get more information about the 211 program, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
Medicaid – This is the most popular medical bill assistance program in the country and it is provided by the federal government. Those who are approved will get financial assistance paying for most types of medical bills. There is no limit to how long you can use the program, as long as you qualify. To qualify, you have to be under the age of 65, have a low income, and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. To get more information and apply, click here.
Medicare – This program is the same as the Medicaid one above, in that it will help pay for most medical bills for those who qualify. To qualify, you have to be over the age of 65 and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. Income levels do not matter for this program. To get more information, click here.
