Senior benefits in Buchanan County, Virginia

Appalachian Agency For Senior Citizens, Inc. is the Area Agency on Aging for Buchanan County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to AASC (PSA 02, Cedar Bluff/Tazewell) serves Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell counties with home-delivered and congregate meals, in-home care, care coordination, guardianship, the Generations adult day center, ombudsman services, PACE (ALLCARE For Seniors), and public transportation through Four County Transit. Toll-free 800-656-2272. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-276-964-4915 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Buchanan County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Buchanan County 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 Buchanan County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Buchanan General Hospital for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. In-county hospital in Grundy. FAP page states: 'Patients whose family income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPL) are eligible for a complete charity write-off.' Phone is the hospital business office listed on the FAP page.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Buchanan County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $25,000 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $50,000 or less. Exemption capped at $125 per year ('real estate tax exemptions shall not exceed $125 for any one year'), on the dwelling and one acre. Must be 65 by Dec 31 of the preceding year or totally and permanently disabled; apply annually with the Commissioner of the Revenue March 1 - May 1. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

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

Four County Transit (Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens) serves Buchanan County with Deviated fixed route open to riders of any age; buses deviate up to 3/4-mile off the route by request (call 48 hours ahead). Routes in Buchanan County include Grundy North and Grundy South. 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 1-276-963-1486 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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