We’ve created this page just for you – our savvy seniors who are looking to make the most of the golden years. Did you know that there are a plethora of programs and services offered by the government specifically for senior citizens? From financial assistance to healthcare and more, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of what you can get for free or at a significantly reduced cost. Let’s dive in!
United States
- Medicare: This is a federal program that provides health coverage if you are 65 or older or have a severe disability, no matter your income.
- Medicaid: Medicaid is a state and federal program that provides health coverage if you have a very low income.
- Social Security Benefits: These are benefits that individuals receive upon retirement.
- Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): SFMNP provides low-income seniors with access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter for aged, blind, and disabled people who have little or no income.
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This is a federally funded program that helps low-income households with their home energy bills.
- Property Tax Reduction or Exemption: Some states offer reductions or exemptions for seniors in property taxes.
Canada
- Old Age Security pension: This is a monthly payment available to seniors aged 65 and older who meet the Canadian legal status and residence requirements.
- Guaranteed Income Supplement: This is a monthly non-taxable benefit that is paid to OAS pension recipients who have a low income and are living in Canada.
- Allowance for the Survivor: This is a benefit available to people aged 60 to 64 who have a low income, who are living in Canada, and whose spouse or common-law partner has died.
United Kingdom
- State Pension: The State Pension is a regular payment from the government that you can get when you reach State Pension age.
- Winter Fuel Payment: This is a tax-free payment to help pay for heating during winter.
- Cold Weather Payment: This is a payment to help with extra heating costs during periods of very cold weather.
- Housing Benefit: This can help you pay your rent if you’re unemployed, on a low income or claiming benefits.
Australia
- Age Pension: This provides income support and access to a range of concessions for eligible older Australians.
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card: This card provides access to cheaper prescription medicines, Australian government funded medical services, and other concessions for eligible seniors who are not receiving a pension from Veterans’ Affairs or Centrelink.
Africa:
- South Africa’s Older Person’s Grant: Monthly income for seniors over 60 who do not receive any other social grant and do not earn more than R78,120 if single or R156,240 if married.
Checking Accounts
Who doesn’t love free banking? Many banks offer special checking accounts for senior citizens that come with no monthly fees, free checks, and other perks. It’s worth popping into your local banks to see what they can offer you.
Tax Help
Taxes can be a headache, but did you know the IRS provides a free tax counseling program for the elderly? This program offers free tax help for all taxpayers, particularly those who are 60 years of age and older. It’s like having your personal tax consultant!
Medicare Assistance
Navigating Medicare can be tricky, but the government is here to help. They provide assistance with Medicare costs for low-income seniors through programs like the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program, Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) program, and the Qualified Individual (QI) program.
Prescription Drugs
Prescription costs can add up, but many states have Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs that help eligible seniors pay for prescription drugs. The government also offers Extra Help, a program to help people with limited income and resources pay Medicare prescription drug program costs.
Medical Services
Health is wealth, and free or low-cost health and dental care services are available to seniors through community health centers funded by the government.
Food and Drinks at Restaurants
Eating out doesn’t have to break the bank. Many restaurants offer discounts or even free meals for seniors. So next time you’re dining out, don’t forget to ask about senior discounts!
Store Discounts
Who doesn’t love a good bargain? Many stores offer senior discounts. These can range from a certain percentage off your purchase, to special days where seniors can shop with extra discounts.
Education
Learning never stops, and seniors can take advantage of lifelong learning opportunities through programs like the Senior Citizens’ Higher Education Act, which allows seniors to take courses at public colleges and universities for free or at a significantly reduced cost.
Conclusion
There’s a world of resources available for seniors to take advantage of free or discounted services. From financial assistance to healthcare and education, the government offers a variety of programs designed to help you, our senior citizens. So why wait? Start exploring these opportunities today and make the most of your golden years!
Now if you’re looking for businesses that love to schmooze their senior customers, take a look at 10 surprising discounts for seniors.