Senior benefits in Dickenson County, Virginia

Appalachian Agency For Senior Citizens, Inc. is the Area Agency on Aging for Dickenson County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to AASC (PSA 02) serves Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell counties with home-delivered and congregate meals, in-home care, care coordination, guardianship, adult day services, ombudsman, PACE, 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 Dickenson County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Dickenson 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 Dickenson County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Dickenson Community 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 Clintwood (critical-access, Ballad Health). Phone is Ballad's billing/financial-assistance line shown on the hospital's Ballad page; financial assistance is determined from family income, assets and liabilities per the system FAP page.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Dickenson County offers real estate tax relief for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently and totally disabled. The income and net-worth limits are set by local ordinance and are not published online — call the Commissioner of the Revenue at 276-926-1676 for the current figures and an application. Relief also extends to personal property tax. Applications are filed with the Commissioner of the Revenue (annual deadline — call to confirm).

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

Four County Transit (Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens) serves Dickenson 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). Dickenson County routes include Greater Clintwood Area, Greater Haysi, Clinchco, and Ridge Country connectors. 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