Every year, millions of older Americans miss out on benefits, discounts, and support programs they qualify for. From Medicare Extra Help to property tax relief and unclaimed pensions, these overlooked resources can significantly boost seniors’ cash flow. This guide explains 13 senior benefits in depth—what they are, who qualifies, and exactly how to claim them.
1. Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs)
What It Is
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) help low-income seniors pay Medicare premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance. Administered by state Medicaid offices, MSPs can save seniors hundreds of dollars each month.
Who Qualifies
Eligibility is based on income and resources, which vary by state. As of 2025, general limits are about 135% of the federal poverty level for the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program. Other levels include SLMB and QI, covering Part B premiums.
How to Apply
Applications are handled through your state Medicaid office. Seniors need proof of income (Social Security award letters, tax returns), bank statements, and Medicare card.
Step-by-Step
- Gather documentation of income and assets.
- Contact state Medicaid office online or by phone.
- Submit application and follow up for verification.
- Once approved, benefits may be retroactive up to three months.
2. Medicare Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy)
What It Is
Extra Help is a federal program that reduces prescription drug costs under Medicare Part D. The SSA estimates it’s worth about $5,300 per year in savings.
Who Qualifies
Eligibility is tied to income below 150% of the federal poverty level and limited assets. Many who qualify never apply.
How to Apply
Applications go through the Social Security Administration. If you already receive SSI or Medicaid, you may be enrolled automatically.
Step-by-Step
- Complete SSA’s online Extra Help application.
- Provide proof of income, savings, and Medicare enrollment.
- Check your Part D plan annually to ensure coverage fits needs.
3. SNAP for Seniors (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
What It Is
SNAP provides monthly benefits to buy groceries. Many seniors mistakenly believe they don’t qualify, yet participation can stretch food budgets dramatically.
Who Qualifies
Eligibility depends on income, household size, and allowable medical expense deductions. Older adults may qualify even with modest retirement income.
How to Apply
Applications are through state SNAP offices. Seniors should list out-of-pocket medical costs, which increase benefit amounts.
Step-by-Step
- Check eligibility via your state SNAP pre-screener.
- Gather documents: Social Security statements, rent receipts, utility bills, medical bills.
- Submit online or in person at local agency.
- Interview by phone or in office to confirm eligibility.
4. LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
What It Is
LIHEAP helps low-income households with heating and cooling costs, preventing energy shut-offs and unsafe conditions. Seniors are prioritized in many states.
Who Qualifies
Eligibility is usually set at or below 150% of federal poverty level, but varies by state and household size.
How to Apply
Visit your state LIHEAP agency. Applications require proof of residence, utility bills, and income documentation.
Step-by-Step
- Locate your state LIHEAP office online.
- Submit application early—funds can run out.
- Provide Social Security numbers for all household members.
- Follow up on status and reapply annually.
5. Property Tax Relief for Seniors
What It Is
Many states and counties offer property tax exemptions, credits, or freezes for older homeowners, reducing one of the biggest retirement expenses.
Who Qualifies
Eligibility varies: typically age 65+, with income caps. Some states offer “circuit breaker” credits for renters too.
How to Apply
Applications go through county tax assessor’s office. Some programs require reapplication annually.
Step-by-Step
- Search “[Your State] senior property tax relief” or check with local assessor.
- Provide proof of age, income, and property ownership.
- File before state or county deadlines, often in spring.
- Keep copies of approvals for future filings.
6. Unclaimed Property and Pensions
What It Is
Billions in unclaimed property—bank accounts, pensions, insurance policies—sits in state coffers or with PBGC (Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation).
Who Qualifies
Any senior with forgotten accounts, old employer pensions, or lost life insurance policies may be entitled to funds.
How to Apply
Search your state’s unclaimed property site. For pensions, check the PBGC’s unclaimed pensions database.
Step-by-Step
- Visit unclaimed.org and enter your name.
- Submit claims with proof of identity and past addresses.
- For pensions, search PBGC by former employer.
- Follow claim instructions; some require notarization.
7. Medicare Preventive Services
What It Is
Medicare covers numerous preventive screenings (mammograms, colonoscopies, flu shots) at no cost. Many seniors fail to use them.
Who Qualifies
All Medicare beneficiaries.
How to Apply
Schedule appointments through your doctor. Check the Medicare Preventive Services list for coverage details.
Step-by-Step
- Review annual “Welcome to Medicare” visit and wellness visit benefits.
- Ask providers if tests are fully covered.
- Keep a preventive care calendar.
8. Prescription Drug Discounts
What It Is
Beyond Extra Help, seniors can save with manufacturer assistance programs, state pharmaceutical assistance, or discount networks.
Who Qualifies
Eligibility varies by drug and program. Some states run senior-specific drug aid programs.
How to Apply
Check NeedyMeds or state health department for options.
Step-by-Step
- Search your prescription at NeedyMeds.org.
- Apply for manufacturer programs with doctor’s help.
- Enroll in state programs if available.
9. Transportation Discounts
What It Is
Public transit systems, Amtrak, and airlines offer reduced fares for seniors, often age 62+.
Who Qualifies
Varies by transit authority; Amtrak offers 10% off nationwide for seniors 65+.
How to Apply
Provide proof of age when purchasing tickets. Check local transit websites for senior passes.
Step-by-Step
- Check your city or county transit site for “senior pass.”
- Apply with proof of age and address.
- Renew as required.
10. National Park Service Senior Pass
What It Is
The America the Beautiful Senior Pass offers lifetime entry to 2,000+ federal recreation sites for $80 (or $20 annual).
Who Qualifies
U.S. citizens or permanent residents age 62+.
How to Apply
Order online at USGS store or buy at park entrances with proof of age.
Step-by-Step
- Decide between annual or lifetime pass.
- Provide photo ID and payment.
- Use pass at entry gates nationwide.
11. AARP and Retail Discounts
What It Is
AARP membership ($16/year) unlocks discounts on dining, hotels, insurance, and prescription savings. Many retailers also offer senior discounts, often unadvertised.
Who Qualifies
Anyone age 50+ can join AARP. Retail discounts usually start at age 55–65.
How to Apply
Join AARP online. Always ask retailers and restaurants if they offer senior discounts.
Step-by-Step
- Sign up for AARP membership.
- Download membership card to use at checkout.
- Keep a personal list of local senior discounts.
12. State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs)
What It Is
Many states run SPAPs to help residents with drug costs, often coordinating with Medicare Part D.
Who Qualifies
State residents meeting income guidelines. Coverage varies by state.
How to Apply
Find details at your state SPAP page.
Step-by-Step
- Check eligibility with state health department.
- Apply with proof of residency, Medicare card, and income documentation.
- Coordinate with your Part D plan for maximum savings.
13. Utility Bill and Phone Discounts
What It Is
Lifeline and state-run utility discounts lower phone, internet, and energy bills for eligible seniors.
Who Qualifies
Eligibility often tied to income or participation in programs like Medicaid or SNAP.
How to Apply
Apply through the Lifeline program or your utility provider.
Step-by-Step
- Check Lifeline eligibility online.
- Submit application with proof of income or benefit participation.
- Enroll directly with your phone or internet provider.
Conclusion
From Medicare savings programs to property tax relief and unclaimed pensions, seniors often qualify for valuable benefits they never claim. Start today: make a checklist, gather documents, and apply for at least one benefit this month. These programs can save thousands annually—resources you’ve earned through years of contributions. Don’t leave money on the table: claim what’s yours.
Sources: Social Security Administration (ssa.gov), Medicare.gov, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, PBGC.gov, AARP.org, state unclaimed property offices, USDA SNAP, U.S. Department of Energy LIHEAP, National Park Service.