Senior benefits in Beaufort County, South Carolina

The Lowcountry Area Agency on Aging, part of the Lowcountry Council of Governments, serves older adults in Beaufort County and the rest of the region (Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper counties). Its information, referral and assistance specialists help older adults and caregivers find local services and link them to help. Other programs include SHIP insurance counseling, home and community based services, family caregiver support, long-term care ombudsman help and legal assistance. Call toll-free 877-846-8148.

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

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay home heating and cooling bills. In Beaufort County, LIHEAP applications are taken by the Beaufort/Jasper Economic Opportunity Commission. Contact the Beaufort office at 60 Robert Smalls Parkway at 843-255-7220 to ask how to apply. Bring proof of income and a current energy bill in an adult household member's name. Help depends on available funds.

Estimated bill savings: $300–$1,000 a year

Beaufort Memorial Hospital in Beaufort gives financial assistance for medically necessary care. Eligible patients can get up to a 100% discount. Family income must be under 300% of the federal poverty guidelines, and the patient must not have substantial cash assets or other coverage. Apply within 240 days of the first bill after discharge. Elective services are not covered. For help with the application, call 877-828-7172.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Palmetto Breeze is the public bus system for Beaufort County and the Lowcountry. Routes include the Beaufort Loop, St. Helena Island and Sheldon/Seabrook routes to Beaufort, the Bluffton Breeze and Okatie Breeze, and commuter routes to Hilton Head Island. Easy Breeze door-to-door paratransit serves certified riders with disabilities near the Hilton Head trolley and Bluffton routes. Call the Dispatch Center at 843-757-5782, option 1.

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