Seniors can often access a variety of benefits and services provided by the government that can significantly enhance their quality of life. These can aid their finances, health, and social life. Here are 20 valuable government freebies that every senior should consider claiming today.
Medicare Preventive Services
Medicare offers seniors a list of no-cost screenings and vaccinations. Regular check-ups are key to maintaining good health, so it’s important to make the most of these preventative services. Check out Medicare’s guide to find out how to access this care.
Property Tax Exemptions
Seniors can claim property tax exemptions. The New York Times reported that “homeowners 65 or older with income of less than $500,000 could qualify for a property tax cut of as much as $6,500 a year.” Exemptions vary by state, so take a look to find out what you’re entitled to!
Social Security Bonus Payments
Seniors can apply for extra payments beyond standard Social Security as long as they meet the criteria. There are certain steps to follow to check your eligibility for supplemental Social Security income, but it’s definitely worth it to have some extra money in the bank!
Public Transport Discounts
Get out and about for less money with public transport discounts. There are a variety of public transit discounts available for seniors who meet the eligibility requirements. Make sure you meet the age and other criteria required, claim your public transport benefits, and off you go!
Free Tax Preparation Services
You can find local free tax preparation services for seniors at local tax clinics, public libraries, and on the IRS website. The two main tax preparation services are Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA). Take advantage of these services to help you get better tax outcomes!
Heating and Energy Assistance
Seniors are granted assistance with heating and energy bills through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). To qualify for this financial help, you must meet the criteria of age, income, and energy burden. There are also other state-specific energy assistance programs for seniors, so be sure to do your research!
Free Prescription Drug Programs
Different states have different programs offering free or reduced-cost prescription drugs for seniors. There are a variety of prescription-based benefits on offer from Medicare, state social service agencies, and pharmaceutical companies. Go ahead and apply for these programs to make your money go further.
Nutritional Assistance Programs
Seniors are entitled to receive help from nutritional assistance programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). According to the USDA, “over 800,000 seniors received SFMNP benefits each year.” These programs provide seniors with nutritious, fresh, and local produce.
Senior Community Service Employment Program
The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) provides training and job placements for unemployed seniors or seniors with low income. Through this program, you can find jobs in different community service areas; a great opportunity for financial stability and a better quality of life!
Free Legal Services
Professional legal advice is vital in managing estate and health care issues. Seniors can claim access to free legal help for common legal issues through a variety of sources, including the CLPE hotline, Free Legal Answers online program, Senior Legal Services program, and Legal Aid organizations.
Library Perks
There are also certain library perks for seniors, giving greater access to books, audiobooks, and digital media. The benefits of library services for seniors include loaning books and media and accessing educational classes and workshops from your local library for free.
Fitness and Recreation Programs
Keeping fit is especially important as we get older and there are many health and social benefits to participating in fitness programs. Seniors can access free or subsidized fitness and exercise facilities through fitness and recreation programs, such as SilverSneakers and similar programs.
Veterans Benefits
There are a variety of benefits available for senior veterans to provide financial assistance in getting the care needed. Forbes says “as veterans age, they may need help with daily activities of living (ADLs).” So, if you are eligible, make sure you claim these benefits to get better care and quality of life!
Free Hearing and Vision Screenings
Keep on top of your health for less as a senior citizen with free hearing and vision screenings. A variety of different organizations and programs offer these free screenings for seniors. It’s important to take advantage of this freebie, as regular hearing and vision checks are essential for your health.
Discounted or Free College Education
Seniors can go back to school and continue their education without breaking the bank, with access to a discounted or free college education. Lifelong learning and continuing education in later life can have many cognitive and social benefits, so make sure you seize this opportunity.
Home Modification Programs
Home modifications can be essential as you get older to accommodate any mobility issues or disabilities. Seniors are entitled to various grants, funding, and assistance to help with home modifications, through programs, such as the Safe at Home program, HUD Home Improvement Loans, and the Assisted Living Conversion program.
Free Internet and Technology Training
It can be difficult for seniors to keep up with advancing technology, so programs offering free or discounted internet services for seniors, as well as training sessions on using technology, can be beneficial. These services can help you stay connected to your loved ones!
National Park Senior Passes
Science Direct points out that “access to nature is important for wellbeing at all ages with significant benefits for older adults.” The availability of discounted senior passes for national parks encourages seniors to explore natural settings for their health and enjoyment.
Free Health Screenings at Community Events
Seniors can access free health screenings that are available at community events to help keep track of their health. You can find these free screenings at in-store events at CVS, community fairs, and local health centers. Health screenings are important to identify any problems early when they’re easier to treat.
Emergency Alert Systems
Emergency alert systems can be life-savers for seniors, with programs subsidized by the government that provide free or low-cost emergency alert systems to older people. So, if you’re eligible, make sure you claim this offer, as it could save your life one day!
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