Senior benefits in Craig County, Virginia

Local Office on Aging, Inc. (LOA Area Agency on Aging) is the Area Agency on Aging for Craig County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Meals on Wheels, nutrition programs, health and wellness, legal assistance, ombudsman, dementia support, and caregiver respite for adults 60+ in the 5th Planning District, including Craig County. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-540-345-0451 to get started.

$500–$6,000/yr

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Craig County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Craig County Department of Social Services, online at CommonHelp, or by phone at 1-833-5CALLVA. Households with an adult 60 or older or a person with a disability are a priority group. Fuel Assistance applications are taken each fall and Cooling Assistance each summer, while funds last.

$300–$1,000/yr

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Craig County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at LewisGale 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 Craig County; nearest is LewisGale Medical Center, 1900 Electric Rd, Salem, VA 24153, roughly 22-25 miles from New Castle.

Craig County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $30,000 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $90,000 or less. Annual exemption application due March 2, 2026; first $6,500 of each non-spouse relative's income excluded; furnishings excluded from net worth. Documents are the county's official 2026 requirements/application PDFs linked from the Commissioner of Revenue page (craigcountyva.gov/188/Commissioner-of-Revenue). Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

$200–$3,000/yr