Senior benefits in Clarke County, Virginia

Seniors First, The Shenandoah Area Agency on Aging is the Area Agency on Aging for Clarke County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Meals on Wheels and senior-center meals, WellTran non-emergency medical transportation, in-home services (personal care, homemaker, respite), long-term care advocacy (ombudsman), Medicare benefits counseling, and senior centers across its six localities. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-540-635-7141 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Clarke County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Clarke 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 Clarke County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Winchester Medical Center for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. No hospital in Clarke County; nearest is Winchester Medical Center in Winchester, roughly 10 miles from Berryville. Valley Health's system financial assistance policy applies.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Clarke County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Household income for the prior year must be less than $55,000, and net worth (not counting the home and one acre) must be less than $250,000. Residence must be the applicant's primary residence. Applications due May 1 of the year relief is sought (the Commissioner's main page lists an April 1 form deadline in its important-dates list; the real-estate page states May 1). Commissioner of the Revenue office: 101 Chalmers Ct., Berryville. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

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

Virginia Regional Transit (Clarke County on-demand) serves Clarke County with Demand-response (on-demand) service provided through a county partnership with Virginia Regional Transit; no fixed routes and no published senior fare. Call to schedule a ride. 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 1-877-777-2708 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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