Senior benefits in Delaware County, Iowa

Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging (NEI3A) is the Area Agency on Aging for Delaware County. It helps older adults stay independent at home. Its services include options counseling, case management, meal programs, caregiver support, respite services, health and wellness programs, advocacy, and recreation and education programs. NEI3A has offices in Decorah, Dubuque and Waterloo. Call toll-free 1-800-779-8707 to get started.

Estimated service value: $200–$2,000 a year

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income households pay part of their heating costs. In Delaware County, HACAP takes applications. The program year starts October 1, 2026 for households with someone 60 or older or disabled; everyone else may apply November 1, 2026 through April 30, 2027. Household income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. You can apply online or with a paper application. If you have a disconnect notice or your heat is shut off, contact your local office. HACAP's Delaware County Office, 721 S 5th St. in Manchester can be reached at 563-927-4629.

Estimated bill savings: $80–$800 a year

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) office for Delaware County (Delaware County DHS) is at 721 South Fifth St, Manchester, IA 52057. It is open by appointment only and is served by the Buchanan County office in Independence. You can apply at a local HHS office for SNAP food benefits, Medicaid and Rent Reimbursement (up to $1000 back on rent for income-eligible older or disabled renters). You can also apply online through the Iowa HHS Benefits Portal. Call 319-334-6091 or toll-free 800-642-6609.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Regional Medical Center (RMC) in Manchester gives quality, medically necessary care to all in need, regardless of ability to pay. Financial assistance is available to eligible people who are uninsured, underinsured or otherwise unable to pay for medically necessary care. A Financial Counselor can help. The policy, application and a plain language summary are on RMC's website in English and Spanish. Call RMC Financial Assistance at 563-927-7587.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

The Region 8 Regional Transit Authority (RTA) provides public transit in the cities, communities and rural areas of Delaware, Dubuque and Jackson counties, including Delaware County. All RTA services are open to the general public. If you are 60 or older, you may be able to get reduced fare passes through Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging; ask the RTA about the NAPIS form. The RTA is a certified Medicaid transportation provider, and Rides to Wellness vouchers are income-based. Call the RTA at 563-588-4592 or toll-free 1-800-839-5005.

Estimated service value: $150–$1,500 a year

The Delaware County Veterans Affairs office at 601 Grand Street, Manchester, IA 52057 helps veterans and their families. The office helps veterans and dependents apply for benefits such as service-connected disability compensation, VA pension, survivors pension, aid and attendance, VA health care, admission to the Iowa Veterans Home, VA cemetery benefits and the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs Trust Fund. The county also has a Delaware County Veterans Affairs Assistance Application. Hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Call the office at 563-927-5116.

Estimated cash: about $0 a year