Millions of seniors in the U.S. have disabilities. They are either completely or partially disabled, which may make it difficult for them to try to make additional money if their expenses rise. Since most seniors live on fixed incomes, it is important for them to know where to turn if they experience financial challenges. Whether they need free food or help paying the heating bill, there are places that disabled seniors can turn to for the help they need.
Seniors who are disabled may have a more challenging financial time than those who are not. While they share in having a fixed income, they may have more expenses that come with being disabled. No matter what the reason, if they are experiencing difficulty paying for their bills and making ends meet it is important to get help immediately.
There are some great programs around the country that will provide financial assistance for disabled seniors to ensure their basic needs are being met. Many of the programs listed are provided by federal and state funding and are open to those who are a citizen or legal non-citizen. Most programs will also require that low-income guidelines be met in order to be approved. Programs offered through charitable organizations are usually open to anyone in the community who needs assistance.
Financial Assistance Programs
Apply for as many of the programs below that you feel qualified for. There is no limit to how many you can get assistance from at one time. Oftentimes, if you qualify for one of them, then you may qualify for the others. Additionally, you may get referred to other programs when you apply for these.
211 – This is a number that disabled seniors can call to get referrals to financial assistance programs. The operator will gather information about where you live and what type of help you need and will use their database to locate helpful programs in your area. It is a free program provided by United Way and is open to everyone in the country. To get more information about the 211 program, click here.
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Disabled seniors who need help with housing issues can turn to HUD, which is the country’s largest provider of housing financial assistance. They offer a variety of programs to help those who need financial assistance, including rental assistance, foreclosure avoidance, help to pay for home repairs, weatherization services, and access to government-owned housing units. The programs are open to citizens and legal non-citizens who meet the low-income requirements. There is no limit to how long you can get help through HUD if you continue to meet the qualifications. To get information, contact the HUD office in your state. To find your state’s office, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This program, which used to be called food stamps, is provided by the federal government. The program provides financial assistance to help people pay for food. Those who are approved for the program will receive a debit-style card that will be electronically loaded with funds each month. The card can be used as a payment source at the store and some farmer’s markets. To qualify, you have to meet the low-income requirements. There is no limit to how long you can get help through this program. The amount you receive each month is determined by how many dependents are in the home. To get more information and apply for SNAP, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program is funded by the federal government and helps people around the country pay for their energy bills. Each year, the federal government gives the state government a block grant to pay energy bills for those who have a low income. Once the grant is depleted, the program cannot help anyone else until they get their next allotment in the following year. If you approve, the funds will be sent directly to the energy provider on your behalf. To get more information and apply for bill payment assistance, click here.
Medicare – This program offered by the federal government will help pay for medical bills for those who are over the age of 65 and are a citizen or legal non-citizens. There is no limit to how long you can get help through the program. There are no income requirements for this program. Those who are approved will get help paying for most types of healthcare bills, including those from doctors, hospitals, specialists, and more. It also provides financial assistance to pay for prescription drugs. To get more information and apply, click here.
Catholic Charities – This charity provides some financial assistance to those who need help, including providing free food, hot meals, shelter services, bill payment asstiance, and more. They have locations around the country and provide help to those in need in the areas where they are located. To get more information and find a location near you, click here.
Salvation Army – This faith-based organization provides a range of helpful services to help those who are struggling financially. They provide hot meals, free food to take home, shelter, counseling, clothing, bill payment assistance, and more. They have many locations around the country. To find locations near you, click here.
Additional Resources
You have probably passed by them many times but didn’t realize what great resources the churches in your area may be. There are thousands of churches around the country, and they typically aim to serve the people in the community who need assistance. You don’t have to be a member of the church to get help from them. Reach out to the churches in your area to see what type of programs they provide and if you can get some financial assistance from them. They may have programs in place that will help with providing financial assistance by helping with paying bills, providing groceries, paying for medical equipment, and more. They may also be able to refer you to other helpful local programs.