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Financial Assistance Resource Guide
Programs that help pay for elder care, Medicare, Medicaid, VA benefits, and more
Medicaid covers nursing home care, home health aides, and some assisted living costs for those who qualify financially.
Who QualifiesLow income/assets (varies by state). Generally under ~$2,000 assets for individual.
What It CoversNursing home, home care, adult day, some assisted living
How to ApplyState Medicaid office or eldercare.acl.gov
Important Note5-year "look-back" on asset transfers. Plan ahead.
Monthly benefit for veterans (or surviving spouses) who need help with daily activities.
Who QualifiesVeterans with wartime service + need for daily help
Benefit AmountUp to ~$2,700/month (2026) depending on status
What It CoversCan be used for any care: in-home, assisted living, nursing home
How to ApplyVA.gov or VA regional office; 1-800-827-1000
Medicare covers part-time skilled nursing and therapy at home if medically necessary.
Who QualifiesNeed skilled care + homebound + doctor's order
What It CoversSkilled nursing, PT/OT/speech, some aide services
LimitationsMust be "skilled" care, not custodial. Part-time only.
Medicaid Waiver Programs
Many states have "waiver" programs that allow Medicaid to pay for home and community-based services instead of nursing home care. Search "[Your State] Medicaid HCBS waiver" to learn about options.
Who QualifiesLow-income seniors (income limits vary by state)
BenefitMonthly funds for food purchases
How to Applyfns.usda.gov/snap or local social services
Who QualifiesLimited income/assets (higher than Medicaid limits)
BenefitPays most Part D premiums, deductibles, copays
How to Applyssa.gov or 1-800-772-1213
Who QualifiesLow-income households
BenefitPays utility bills, weatherization assistance
How to Applyacf.hhs.gov/ocs/liheap or call 211
Key Contacts for Assistance
- Eldercare Locator1-800-677-1116
- Medicare Questions1-800-MEDICARE
- Social Security / SSI1-800-772-1213
- VA Benefits1-800-827-1000
- BenefitsCheckUp (find benefits)benefitscheckup.org
Next Steps Checklist
- Use BenefitsCheckUp.org to screen for programs
- Contact Area Agency on Aging for local resources
- If veteran: Apply for VA benefits
- Review Medicaid eligibility and waiver programs
- Apply for Extra Help if on Medicare Part D
- Consider elder law attorney for Medicaid planning