Senior benefits in Arlington County, Virginia

Arlington Agency on Aging is the Area Agency on Aging for Arlington County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Part of Arlington DHS Aging and Disability Services Division (DARS PSA 08B); funds nutrition programs and home-delivered meals, legal assistance, long-term-care ombudsman, money management, in-home/personal care, Social 60+ Cafes, and transportation services (grocery loops, STAR Assist, taxi discounts). Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-703-228-1700 to get started.

Estimated service value: $500–$6,000 a year

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Arlington County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Arlington County Department of Human Services, online at CommonHelp, or by phone at 1-855-635-4370. Cooling Assistance requires a household member who is 60 or older, has a disability, or is a child under 6. Fuel Assistance applications are taken each fall and Cooling Assistance each summer, while funds last.

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

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Arlington County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at VHC Health (Virginia Hospital Center) for emergency and medically necessary care. Patients whose household income is below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines receive free care for their out-of-pocket share of eligible services; VHC Health does not offer partial discounts under its financial assistance policy. Uninsured patients who do not qualify get a 20% self-pay allowance and can ask about payment plans. In-county hospital at 1701 N. George Mason Dr. The financial assistance policy (2026-01 revision), plain-language summary, and application are linked from the page; financial counseling office: 800-489-9088.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Arlington County offers real estate tax relief (mixed) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $139,551 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $515,200 or less. 2026 exemption tiers: full exemption at income $0-$63,104; 75% to $77,022; 50% to $91,149; 25% to $112,187 (assets up to $515,200). Deferral only for income $112,187.01-$139,551 or assets $515,200.01-$695,519. Homeowners must be 65+ or totally/permanently disabled. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

Estimated bill savings: $200–$3,000 a year

ART (Arlington Transit) serves Arlington County with Fixed-route county bus; regular fare $2.25, seniors 65+ pay $1.10 with a Senior SmarTrip card or Medicare card. Metrobus/Metrorail also serve Arlington with the 65+ Senior SmarTrip half fare; STAR is the county paratransit. Older adults and people with disabilities can use reduced fares or demand-response rides for medical appointments, shopping, and other essential trips. Rides are free or low-cost depending on the service.

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