Need free or low-cost meals fast? Use the five tools below to find food banks, senior center lunches, home-delivered meals, and farmers’ market coupons—plus how to apply for SNAP and the senior food box (CSFP). We’ll show phone numbers, ZIP finders, and the documents to bring so you can eat well this week. Feeding AmericaMeals … Read more
Facing eviction on a fixed income? You still have options—today. This guide gives seniors and caregivers a one-hour plan, the phone numbers that matter (211, legal aid, Eldercare), and the local programs—from housing counselors to utility aid—that can slow or stop an eviction. Start with the quick answer below. Quick answer: who to call today … Read more
If you want to stay close to family and top hospitals but dump big-city rents, look 30–90 minutes out where HUD’s FY2025 Fair Market Rents (FMRs) drop. Standout “near” moves: NYC→Allentown (PA), LA→Riverside/San Bernardino, SF→Vallejo or Stockton (and some Sacramento suburbs), DC→Baltimore corridor, Chicago→NW Indiana or Milwaukee suburbs, Boston→Worcester or Providence, Seattle→Tacoma or Bremerton, Miami→Port … Read more
If you’re a low-income retiree struggling with rent or facing eviction, start with 211 (state/local emergency rent help), the CFPB renter help hub, and your local Public Housing Agency (Section 8). If available, also apply for LIHEAP to keep utilities on and contact an Area Agency on Aging for local senior-specific aid and case management. … Read more
Yes—Medicaid pays for rides to covered medical care when you have no other reasonable way to get there. This Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) benefit can include bus passes, mileage pay, taxis/TNCs, wheelchair vans, or stretcher cars—whichever is the least costly appropriate mode for your needs. Here’s what’s covered and how to book. eCFR+1 Disclaimer: This … Read more
Appealing a Medicaid denial is time-sensitive—but very doable. Most people can request a state fair hearing and, if they act fast, keep benefits during the appeal. Your exact deadline comes from federal rules and your state’s notice. This guide shows the steps, scripts, and timelines to use. Legal Information Institute+1 Disclaimer: This guide is general … Read more
Medicare pays for short-term skilled care, not day-in, day-out help with bathing, dressing, or supervision. That’s where Medicaid steps in. Medicaid is the nation’s primary payer for long-term services and supports, funding nursing homes and in-home/community care when you qualify. Here’s how the two programs actually work together in 2025. MedicareMedicaid Disclaimer: This is general … Read more
Yes—many adults 60+ on Social Security or SSI qualify for SNAP. For senior households, you usually only need to meet the net-income test, can deduct $35+ in monthly medical costs, and face no shelter cap. Below, see the 2025 limits, 2026 updates, and exact steps to apply. Food and Nutrition Service+1 Disclaimer: This article is … Read more
HEAP (also called LIHEAP) helps older adults pay home energy bills, handle energy emergencies (like shutoff notices or an empty oil tank), and—in some states—get cooling help or minor energy-related repairs. You apply through your local agency, and eligibility is based on income, with many states prioritizing households with seniors. Administration for Children and Families+1 … Read more
**Section 8 pays rent. Medicaid pays for health care and certain housing-related services (like deposits, utilities, and tenancy support)—**not ongoing rent—except in narrow state waiver pilots that can cover short-term rent for up to six months. You can (and often should) use both programs together. eCFR Bottom line: Use Section 8 for monthly rent; look … Read more