Each type of financial help for the elderly in South Carolina may have unique requirements to qualify.
Some elderly people receive hefty pensions or other retirement benefits that meet all their financial needs, but some do not. Some elderly people need financial help just to make ends meet. They may need help paying for food, medical care, heating bills and other basic needs. Elderly people in South Carolina can apply to several agencies for financial assistance.
SSI
SSI, or Supplemental Security Income, provides monthly payments to some people ages 65 and older in South Carolina if they have limited incomes and resources. Elderly people that do not qualify for Social Security retirement benefits may qualify, as well as those that receive only small sums in retirement benefits. Apply at any Social Security Administration office in South Carolina (see Resource section) or call 800-772-1213 to begin an application for SSI.
Healthy Connections
Healthy Connections, the Medicaid program in South Carolina, covers a wide range of medical services for some elderly people who have low incomes. Elderly people who receive Medicare may still qualify for Healthy Connections if they meet the income guidelines. Healthy Connections may even help with their Medicare premiums. Elderly people who receive SSI in South Carolina automatically qualify for Healthy Connections, but others must apply. Apply for Healthy Connections at the Department of Health and Human Services office in the county in which you live (see Resource section).
Food Stamps
Food stamps help some elderly people in South Carolina purchase nutritious foods each month. People must meet income guidelines in order to qualify. Apply for food stamps at the Department of Social Services office in the county in which you live (see Resource section). You must provide proof of all household income with your application.
LIHEAP
LIHEAP, or the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, helps some elderly people in South Carolina pay home heating and cooling bills. People must meet income guidelines in order to qualify. Contact the South Carolina Office of Economic Opportunity at 803-734-0662 for more information or to request an application. You must provide proof of all household income when you apply.
Other Sources of Assistance
Many local agencies help elderly people in South Carolina meet their basic needs. Churches, food pantries, senior citizens' centers and various charities help elderly people with rent, utility bills, food, transportation, health care and other necessities of life. Ask about other sources of assistance at the Department of Social Services when you apply for food stamps, or call your local United Way office and ask if they can refer you to other services you need.
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