Government assistance for the elderly is available in a variety of categories, including utilities, food, shelter and in-home care. In order to receive government assistance, an individual must often meet certain requirements, such as income levels and age. It can take quite a while to get approved for government assistance programs, making it necessary to ensure that the correct information is provided and the correct paperwork is submitted. Otherwise the already lengthy process could be delayed even longer.
Instructions
1. Determine the type of government assistance required. Although many assistance programs for the elderly are available, each serves a specific function. Applying to the wrong agency could result in delays or an outright application rejection. For example, if assistance is needed with purchasing food, then make sure you have contact information for that agency, not for the one that provides in-home care.
2. Contact the agency with whom you must apply in order to receive the type of assistance you need. Browse Benefits.gov details the various government assistance programs available, who is eligible for each type of benefits program and go about receiving assistance. Alternatively, you can browse the Senior Citizens' Resources section of the government's USA.gov website, which details programs that are available only for the elderly.
3. Acquire the necessary paperwork from either the local branch of the government agency through which the assistance is provided or by downloading and printing the forms from the agency's website. Fill out the paperwork, paying careful attention to the information provided in order to ensure accuracy, then submit it to the agency via mail, in person or online. If you're using Benefits.gov, click "Next Step" to view detailed information about the steps required for the benefits you want to apply for.
4. Wait the specified waiting period before contacting the agency to check on the status of the application. If additional information is needed or an in-person meeting is necessary, you will be contacted with instructions.
Tags: government assistance, assistance programs, elderly available, government assistance programs, information provided, in-home care
