Texas Senior Benefits Guide
Texas has a range of federal and state benefit programs for older adults. If you are 60 or older and on a fixed or limited income, programs are available to help with food, healthcare, utility bills, property taxes, and transportation.
Food Assistance Programs
Texas seniors can access food assistance through federal programs and a large network of food banks.
- SNAP Food Assistance
Monthly food benefits on an EBT card for groceries. Seniors 60+ often qualify under more generous income thresholds. Apply through your local Texas Health and Human Services office or at yourtexasbenefits.com.
- Local Food Banks and Pantries
Free groceries through the Texas food bank network including the Houston Food Bank, North Texas Food Bank, and Central Texas Food Bank. No income test required at most locations.
Medical Cost Assistance
Texas offers federal Medicare assistance programs and a state Medicaid program for eligible older adults.
- Medicare Extra Help
Lowers Medicare Part D prescription drug costs. Apply through Social Security online, by phone, or at a local office.
- Medicare Savings Programs
State programs that help pay Medicare Part B premiums and cost-sharing for Texans with limited income.
- Texas Medicaid for the Elderly and Disabled (opens in a new tab)
Covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and long-term care for eligible low-income Texans 65 and older. Apply through Texas Health and Human Services.
- SHIP — Free Medicare Counseling (Texas) (opens in a new tab)
Free one-on-one Medicare counseling through the Texas State Health Insurance Assistance Program. Call 1-800-252-9240.
Energy Bill Assistance
Texas residents can get help with electric and utility bills through federal and utility-level programs.
- LIHEAP Energy Assistance
Federal heating and cooling bill assistance administered in Texas through local community action agencies. Seniors receive priority.
- Utility Company Assistance Programs
Texas utilities including Oncor, CenterPoint Energy, and AEP offer low-income discount and payment assistance programs. Contact your utility company directly.
Property Tax Relief
Texas offers strong property tax relief for homeowners age 65 and older, including a school tax freeze.
- Senior Property Tax Relief
Texas homeowners 65+ receive an additional $10,000 homestead exemption on school district taxes, and a freeze that prevents school taxes from increasing as long as you live in the home.
- Texas Comptroller — Senior Exemptions (opens in a new tab)
Detailed information on the over-65 exemption, disability exemption, and tax deferral options for Texas homeowners.
Transportation Programs
Local Area Agencies on Aging provide transportation assistance to Texas seniors across the state.
- Senior Transportation Programs
Free or reduced-cost rides to medical appointments and essential services through local aging agencies. Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 to find your local program.
See What Benefits You May Qualify For
Answer a few simple questions and we'll show you programs available in Texas matched to your situation. It takes about two minutes.
Use the Benefits FinderImportant: This page provides general information only. Program details, income limits, and availability change over time. Always verify eligibility directly with the official program or agency.