Senior benefits in Augusta County, Virginia

Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS) is the Area Agency on Aging for Augusta County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Meals on Wheels and VPAS Cafes, senior transportation (60+), caregiver support, Medicare consultation (VICAP), information and assistance, one-time emergency financial help, ombudsman, Senior Cool Care, and Farm Market Fresh vouchers. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-540-949-7141 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Augusta County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Shenandoah Valley Dept. of Social Services (Staunton-Augusta Office), 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 Augusta County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Augusta Health for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. In-county: Fishersville, Augusta County. Financial assistance for households at or below 400% FPL.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Augusta County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $55,000 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $125,000 or less. Tax Relief for the Elderly & Disabled (TRE), adopted 1992 under Ordinance 22-12 per Va. Code 58.1-3210. Apply January 1 - April 1 with the Commissioner of the Revenue, 18 Government Center Lane, Verona. Since January 2025 net worth is calculated as assets minus liabilities (mortgages, car loans, credit card debt) and defined-contribution retirement accounts are valued like pensions. The TRE application PDF is linked from the county page. Call 540-245-5647 (Real Estate) for help with the application.

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

BRITE Bus Transit Service serves Augusta County with Fixed-route service throughout Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta County (250 Connector, Stuarts Draft Link, Blue Ridge Community College Shuttle serve the county) plus ADA-complaint paratransit at $1.00 each way. 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. Call 1-540-943-9302 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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