Seniors living in the Silver State, otherwise known as Nevada, may at times struggle financially to make ends meet. Like in other states, the cost of living continues to increase, and seniors often live on fixed income. This means that the money they are bringing in each year is not keeping pace with the rising costs of living. The good news is that there are programs that offer financial assistance for seniors in Nevada.
The federal and state government provide the funding and run most of the financial assistance programs that are open to seniors in Nevada and other states. They are often programs that have been created to help ensure that people’s basic needs are being met. Most of the time, you have to have a low income to be approved for them, as well as be a citizen or legal non-citizen.
The funds provided by the helpful programs are not considered to be loans, so seniors do not have to worry about ever paying it back. Some of the programs provide short term, or limited assistance amounts, while other programs will allow people to stay on them long term and possibly with no time limits at all. You can apply for as many programs as you feel qualified for or need, because there are no caps in place regarding how many you can get funds from at one time.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This program, which is provided by the federal government, focuses on ensuring people have their basic food needs met. SNAP used to be called food stamps and is still what many people call it today. Those who are approved for the program will be get help from the federal government when it comes to paying for their groceries. The monthly amount that will be transferred to a debit-style card electronically each month is determined in part by how many dependents live in the home. The card becomes the payment source, helping to pay for a wide variety of food items. There is no limit to how long you can get food assistance through SNAP. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Catholic Charities – With many locations around the country to serve people in need, this faith-based organization helps people with obtaining free food, clothing, hot meals, shelters, and more. They do not expect people getting help to be religious. To get more information and find a location near you, click here.
Food Bank of Northern Nevada – This is a food bank that serves the Northern Nevada area, including Reno. Those who need free food can contact them for assistance. To get more information, click here.
Three Square – This food bank is an organization that serves the Southern Nevada area, including Las Vegas. Those who live in that area can contact the organization to get assistance obtaining food. To get more information, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Housing is often the biggest expense that seniors face, and getting financial assistance to get it paid for is crucial. This agency is part of the federal government and provides a variety of resources to help people with their housing needs. Some of the programs they offer include rental assistance, paying for home repairs, weatherization services, and locating affordable housing options. They also own housing units and will provide people who have a low income with them. To qualify for HUD programs you have to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. There is no limit to how long you can get help through HUD. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Clark County – The county government that services Las Vegas offers rental assistance. They have a program for seniors that focuses on helping those who have a fixed income. The program is limited to 12 months of assistance. To qualify, you have to meet the low income and residency requirements. To get more information and apply, click here.
Reno Housing Authority – This organization will provide rental assistance for those who live in the Reno area. They provide a voucher program, which will help people who meet the criteria to pay for their rent. To qualify, you need to have a low income and be a legal resident of the state. To get more information and apply, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Energy Assistance Program (EAP) – This program will help residents of Nevada pay for their energy bills if they have a low income. You will have to show your proof of residency, income, and additional information. To get more information and apply, click here.
Clark County – The county government in Las Vegas has a program in place to help people pay for their utility bills. To get more information, click here.
211 – This is a free referral program provided by the organization the United Way. They will provide people in need with local referrals to programs that can provide financial assistance. To get more information about the program, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
Medicaid – This is a program provided by the federal government that will help people under the age of 65 pay for their medical bills. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a legal resident. To get more information and apply, click here.
Medicare – This program is similar to the one above (Medicaid). While it is also provided by the federal government and is for legal residents. The difference is that with this program it is for those who are over the age of 65 and there are no income requirements. Those who qualify for these medical bill payment assistance programs will get help paying for most types of medical bills, including to go to the doctor, hospital, specialist, eye doctor, dentist, and more. There is no limit to how long you can use this program if you meet the qualifications. To get more information and apply, click here.
