Financial Benefits & Assistance
Federal
Medicare
Federal health insurance program for people 65+ or with certain disabilities
EligibilityAge 65+ or disabled
ApplicationOnline, phone, or in-person
CoverageHospital, medical, prescription
Federal/State
Medicaid
Health coverage for eligible low-income adults, children, and people with disabilities
EligibilityIncome & asset limits vary by state
ApplicationState Medicaid office
CoverageMedical, long-term care
Federal
Social Security Retirement
Monthly benefits for retired workers who have paid into the Social Security system
EligibilityAge 62+ with work credits
ApplicationOnline, phone, or in-person
Benefit AmountBased on lifetime earnings
Federal
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Cash assistance for low-income people who are 65+, blind, or disabled
EligibilityAge 65+ or disabled with limited income/assets
ApplicationSocial Security office
Benefit AmountUp to $914/month (individual, 2023)
Federal
VA Aid & Attendance
Increased monthly pension for veterans and survivors who need regular aid
EligibilityVeterans with qualifying service & care needs
ApplicationVA regional office
Benefit AmountVaries based on need and dependents
Federal
SNAP for Seniors
Food assistance program with special rules for adults 60+ and people with disabilities
EligibilityIncome limits, higher for 60+
ApplicationState SNAP office
Benefit AmountAverage $104/month for seniors