For many senior citizens, Social Security benefits are the only source of income. Paying for food, housing, healthcare, transportation, and other basic needs can be challenging when you’re on a limited income.

So, how can senior citizens get free money? Government benefits and grants can ease the burden by providing you access to free or low-cost healthcare services, housing, transportation, food, and more. If you’re eligible, you can take advantage of these benefits to supplement your income.

7 Ways for Seniors To Get Free Money  

The federal government offers free government money for seniors over 60 through a wide range of programs. However, you may have access to other benefits provided by your state. Some programs may also offer benefits to individuals over 50.

1. Apply for Government Programs

Social Security is one of the most well-known government benefits for seniors over 65. It’s also the major source of income for a majority of older adults in the country.

The full retirement age in the U.S. is 66, but you can start collecting retirement benefits as early as 62 years of age. If you wait until you’re 66 years old, the maximum amount you can receive is $3,627.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another option for financial assistance for seniors. If you’re over 65, disabled, or blind, you can collect an additional $943 a month in benefits.

You can also apply for healthcare benefit programs like Medicare and Medicaid. The Medicare Extra Help Program can aid you in paying for prescription drugs. Another option is the Medicare Savings Program, which can help those who can’t afford health insurance deductibles, copayments, and premiums. 

Enrollment in these programs can help make Medicare premiums more affordable and reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

2. Get a Senior Citizen Grant

Help for seniors is also available in the form of grants offered by various departments of the government.

One such senior citizen grant is the Foster Grandparent Program, which helps seniors with limited incomes get involved with volunteering. Grant funds support programs that provide personalized services to children with special needs. Volunteers can receive a small stipend in exchange for their services.  

The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program is another option to consider. If you’re 55 or older, you can receive a stipend when you become a volunteer for the program.

Grants for Homeowners

If you’re wondering how senior citizens can get free money for home repairs, there are programs that can help.

If you’re a low-income homeowner and are age 62 or older, you may be eligible for USDA Repairs Grants. You can receive free money in the form of a grant for home repairs in rural areas.

Another option is the Weatherization Assistance Program, which can help reduce your utility costs and pay for improvements, such as replacing or repairing windows, doors, water heaters, and heating and cooling systems.

3. Get Financial Assistance If You’re on Social Security

If you’re already receiving Social Security, you may qualify to receive additional free money for seniors through other resources and benefits.

The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program offers financial assistance if you’re disabled and have sufficiently contributed to the program through working. If you’re receiving SSI, you’ll usually qualify for other benefits like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which offers you free money for purchasing food from participating grocery stores.

Other than SNAP benefits, you may also be eligible for programs like Meals on Wheels, Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program.

Other than federal benefits, states have other programs in place, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), rent rebates, and healthcare benefits.

4. Find Free Services for Seniors

If you’re looking for free services you can get as an older adult, there are a number of programs that can provide you with home repair, legal advice, and transportation assistance.

Home Repair Services

The Home Repairs Grant and the Weatherization Assistance Program we’ve discussed above are two good options to consider if you need help with home repairs to make your home safe and energy efficient.

Another option is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This federally funded program helps low-income households reduce home energy bills through weatherization and energy-related home repairs.

Transportation

If you need free transportation, the Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Program is a good option. This is a free transportation service for seniors from Medicaid. Depending on the state where you reside, details may vary, but this program usually covers healthcare-related transportation services, such as doctor visits.

Legal Assistance

For low-cost or free legal help for seniors, you may be able to find local organizations through the Eldercare Locator. “Everyone should know about Eldercare legal assistance and take advantage of it as needed,” shares Teresa Dodson, financial expert and founder of Greenbacks Consulting. “The Elderly are often targets for those who want to take advantage of their financial means,” she adds.

Legal Services Corporation is a nonprofit organization that offers free legal services to low-income Americans, including seniors.

You can also find help through pro bono programs in your area. Use the LawHelp.org directory to find volunteer lawyers in your area.

5. Researching Government Benefits

If you’re wondering how senior citizens can get free money and not sure where to start, here are a few resources to start your search with:

Since most government programs have age restrictions and income thresholds, search for programs that are specifically for low-income seniors, benefits for seniors over 65, or benefits for seniors over 55 to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements.

6. Avoid Scams

When searching for federal programs for seniors, be vigilant to avoid scams. If you receive an offer for free money through government grants for bills, home repairs, or education, it's likely a scam.

Government agencies will never email, call, or text you to ask if you’re interested in a grant. If someone asks you to pay an upfront fee for a list of government benefits or grants, it’s a scam. You can find a list of available grants and benefits for free at grants.gov and USAGov website.

7. Protect Your Personal Information

Government agencies will never contact you and ask for your credit card, bank account, or Social Security information. Government benefits and grant scammers may ask you for personal information and may use it to steal your identity or get money from your account.

Senior citizens applying for financial assistance should protect their personal information and avoid sharing it over the phone, email, or text. You’ll only need to put down that information in your application form when you’re applying for a specific benefit.

The Bottom Line on How Senior Citizens Can Get Free Money

Getting older comes with challenges, and sometimes, a little financial assistance can help make ends meet. If you’re interested in learning how senior citizens can get free money, start by exploring some of the resources we’ve shared in this guide.

Other than federal benefits, the state and community you reside in may also offer specific benefits for seniors that may be worth considering.