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<\/p>\nAccording to The Senior Citizens League, roughly 24.6 million seniors, or 44% of the country’s retirement-age population, depend on Social Security for 100% of their income. Whether you’re among those living solely on Social Security benefits or looking for ways to make your money stretch further over your golden years, these resources may help. <\/p>\n
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Image source: Getty Images.<\/p>\n
Food<\/p>\n
Food is a basic need and can take up a large portion of your monthly income. Here’s where to look for assistance.<\/p>\n
SNAP<\/p>\n
To be eligible for SNAP, your net income (the money left after taxes and deductions like Medicare premiums are subtracted from total earnings) cannot exceed $1,305 for a one-person household. For a two-person household, the 2026 net limit is $1,763. Fortunately, elderly applicants don’t have to pass a gross income test, so deductions for healthcare expenses<\/a> and housing may bring your income under the limit — even if you earn much more. <\/p>\n Stackable senior food programs<\/p>\n There’s no rule against stacking food programs to ensure you’re receiving the food you need to remain healthy. Here are four programs that make stacking a little easier:<\/p>\n Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Provides a monthly box of grocery staples. Health coverage<\/p>\n Given that the average Social Security benefit<\/a> in 2026 is $2,071, it’s no surprise that healthcare expenses can derail even the best budget. Here are several options for assistance: <\/p>\n Medicaid: Offers comprehensive health coverage for people with low income and limited resources. Housing assistance<\/p>\n Whether you own or rent, housing is another large expense. Here are some ideas for making it a little easier on your budget:<\/p>\n Section 8 Housing: The Housing Choice Voucher Program subsidizes rent so you pay a more affordable share of your income toward housing. Many states and local governments also offer:<\/p>\n Rental assistance and emergency eviction-prevention funds. There are several ways to learn more about any of these programs:<\/p>\n Contact your local aging agency or senior center. Utility assistance<\/p>\n Utilities are often hard to budget for. Here are two places to seek assistance:<\/p>\n Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Can help with heating and cooling bills. The easiest way to learn what’s available in your area is to ask your utility company about local programs, log on to 2-1-1, or contact the Community Action Agency<\/a>.<\/p>\n
\nSenior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program: Provides low-income seniors with $50 in coupons to buy healthy foods, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey from participating markets and farm stands.
\nMeals on Wheels: Delivers ready-to-eat meals to homebound seniors, often at low or no cost.
\nLocal food pantries: Most communities offer food pantries for those who need an extra boost.<\/p>\n
\nMedicare Savings Programs: Help low-income Medicare beneficiaries by paying Part B premiums and sometimes deductibles and co-pays.
\nMedicare Extra Help: Reduces prescription drug premiums and out-of-pocket costs for those with limited income.<\/p>\n
\nPublic housing and senior apartment communities: These base your monthly rent on your income.<\/p>\n
\nProperty tax relief for seniors and disabled homeowners.
\nHome repair and weatherization programs to keep your home safe while reducing utility costs.<\/p>\n
\nCheck your state’s housing and social services websites.
\nCheck online search tools like 2-1-1<\/a> or Eldercare Locators<\/a>.<\/p>\n
\nLocal utility-aid funds: These funds, often run by charities, can help you pay for overdue gas, electric, or water bills.<\/p>\n