Around 18% of the population in the state of Minnesota are seniors over the age of 65. Even with the state having a little lower cost of living, there are many people who may struggle to get their bills paid. Most seniors live on a fixed income that doesn’t keep pace with the rising cost of goods and services. It’s important to know about programs offering financial assistance for seniors in Minnesota.
The programs that seniors can turn to during financially challenging times are largely made possible by the state and federal government. They offer programs that will help people meet their basic needs. There are also some programs that are provided by organizations and faith-based entities that aim to help people in the community where they are located.
There are no limits on how many programs you can get help from at one time, so be sure to apply for all those you feel qualified for. The programs provided by the government typically require that the people be citizens or legal non-citizens. Some of the programs to offer assistance to refugees, so check with the agency. Plus, they also require that you meet low income guidelines. The organizations may not check incomes and citizenship status before providing assistance.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Having your food needs met is easier when you qualify for SNAP. This program, which used to be called food stamps, will provide those who qualify with a way to help pay for their groceries each month. There is no limit on how long you can get help through the program as long as you continue to meet the qualifications. The funds to pay for your groceries are sent each month electronically. To qualify for SNAP, you have to be considered low income and a legal resident of the state. The amount that the person receives is determined in party by how many dependents there are in the home. To get more information and apply, click here.
Salvation Army – With locations around the state, you should be able to find one near you. This faith-based organization provides people with free food and more. Many locations have soup kitchens, where they provide those in need with free hot meals. They also give people bags of food to take home. They have additional helpful programs as well, where they give people clothing, shelter, and help pay some small bills. To get more information and find a location near you, click here.
Second Harvest Heartland – This food bank in Minnesota will provide those who need assistance with free food. They also have a program where they provide seniors with boxes of food. If you meet their qualifications of having a low income and being over 60, you can get a free box of food each month. To get more information, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This federal agency is the first place to contact if you are struggling to pay your rent or find an affordable place to live. They are an agency of the federal government and their mission is to help people in the country with their housing needs. HUD offers several ways that they help people in need. Their programs include rental assistance, housing repair assistance, weatherization services, and help locating affordable housing options. There is no limit on how many months you can get help through this program if you continue to meet the qualifications. To qualify, you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Minnesota Housing – This program will help provide people with access to rental assistance. The program provides temporary rental assistance. They will also help temporarily pay for housing related expenses, such as security deposits and fees. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program is funded by federal funds and will help people pay for their energy bills. The minimum they typically provide for a heating bill is $200 and the maximum is $1,400. They will also give up to $600 in crisis assistance. The average benefit per household is just under $200. To qualify, you have to have a low income. To get more information and apply, click here.
Commerce Department Energy & Utilities – This program is provided by the state government and will help people pay for their utilities. They provide an average payment amount of $500. They will provide additional assistance during emergency situations. To get more information and apply, click here.
211 – This program can be utilized to find numerous types of assistance programs for seniors. By calling 211 and letting the operator know the type of assistance you need and what city you live in, they will help you find local programs that may help. It is a free referral program and open to everyone. To get more information about it, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
Medical Assistance – This federally funded program, which is essentially the state’s Medicaid program, will help seniors under the age of 65 to pay for their medical bills, including to see the doctor, go to the hospital, visit a medical specialist, and obtain prescription drugs. There is no limit to how long you can use the program. To meet the qualifications, you have to be under 65, have a low income, and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Medicare – This program is similar to the one list above, but it is for those who are over the age of 65. The program will help seniors over the age of 65 to pay for their medical bills. There is no limit to how long you can get help through the program, and this program has no income requirements. It is available to anyone who meets the age requirement and is a citizen or legal non-citizen. To get more information, click here.
