Senior benefits in Bedford County, Virginia

Central Virginia Alliance for Community Living, Inc. is the Area Agency on Aging for Bedford County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Area Agency on Aging (PSA 11). Meals on Wheels, Bedford Ride and Dial-A-Ride transportation, personal care, caregiver support, Medicare counseling, weatherization, ombudsman services. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-434-385-9070 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Bedford County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Bedford Department of Social 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 Bedford County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. In-county hospital at 1613 Oakwood Street, Bedford. Centra's system policy: free care for uninsured families at or below 200% FPL; sliding-scale discounts of 35%-95% between 200% and 400% FPL. Call (434) 200-3777 and choose option 6 to ask about financial assistance.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Bedford County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be less than $50,000, and net worth (not counting the home) must be less than $150,000. Partial exemption on the primary residence, based on tax due: 100% exemption if tax due is $500 or less; 85% exemption if tax due is between $500 and $1,000. Annual application between January 2 and February 28, in person at the Commissioner of Revenue's Office, 122 East Main St., Bedford. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

Estimated bill savings: $200–$850 a year

Bedford Ride (CVACL) serves Bedford County with Volunteer-driver demand-response transportation to non-emergency medical services countywide; two business days' notice; sliding-scale/affordable fee; first-come first-serve. No fixed-route public transit in Bedford County. 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 1-434-385-9070 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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