Financial Assistance Programs for Senior Native Americans

Native Americans who are seniors may need assistance with meeting a variety of their needs. Senior citizens are typically on a limited income that is fixed, often making it difficult to continue affording things. This is especially true when it comes to the cost of goods and services rising, yet their incomes do not keep pace and match it, and that they may end up with unexpected expenses that leave them experiencing financial hardship. Whether Native American seniors need financial assistance programs to help with cover healthcare costs, obtaining food, paying their rent, or getting their bills paid, there are programs they can turn to.

There are financial assistance programs for senior Native Americans that are funded by the federal and state governments, as well as by nonprofit organizations. Programs are available around the country, making it convenient for seniors to obtain the financial assistance they need.

Here are some financial assistance programs for senior Native Americans:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The federal SNAP program, which is the food stamp program, is open to Native American seniors. The program provides those who qualify with a monthly grant that can be used to purchase food. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements, and be a citizen or legal alien. SNAP for the elderly is open to those who are over the age of 60. You can apply for SNAP at your local social services office. Many states offer an online application process. You must apply for SNAP in the state that you live in.
• Medicare. The federally funded healthcare program is for senior citizens, including those who are Native Americans. Medicare helps people to cover the costs of healthcare, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, and dental care. Medicare is open to those who are about to turn 65 and those who are already 65 and up. Some people will automatically be enrolled in Medicare when they reach 65, while others will need to apply for it. You can apply for Medicare online.
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Some senior Native Americans may qualify for cash grants through the government program Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. Some grants are given to senior citizens who have a financial need, especially if they are helping to provide care for their grandchildren. To find out if you qualify, contact your local social services office or your Tribal office.
• Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Native American seniors who need financial assistance with paying their rent, avoiding foreclosure, or getting necessary home repairs may qualify for programs through Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The HUD programs are open to those who are low income and are a citizen or legal alien. To apply for HUD, you first need to speak with a HUD counselor in your state, who will assess your current financial situation and housing needs.
• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The federally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps people who qualify to pay for their home energy bills. The program is open to those who have a low income, are a citizen or legal alien, and who is the person responsible for paying the bill. They also offer emergency bill paying assistance for those who have received a disconnect notice. To apply for LIHEAP, contact the office in your state that is administering it. You can find that by contacting your energy company, your local social services office, or your local Tribal Office.

This is just some of the financial assistance programs that are available for Native American seniors. Numerous others can be found within communities around the country. More of these local programs can be located by contacting churches in your area, as well as your local council on aging, senior centers, and social services department.

There are also senior financial assistance programs that are offered through national charities, such as the Salvation Army and Catholic Charities. Contact these charities in your area to see which programs they offer and if you qualify. Many offer help with obtaining food, paying bills, and more. Most of the financial assistance programs offered through churches and organizations do not have strict eligibility requirements or a lengthy application process. The programs are open to everyone who is low income and needs assistance.