Senior benefits in Fairfax County, Virginia

Fairfax Area Agency on Aging is the Area Agency on Aging for Fairfax County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Part of the Fairfax County Department of Family Services; offers home-delivered meals, in-home care, transportation for older adults, family caregiver support, VICAP insurance counseling, long-term-care ombudsman, falls prevention, and Adult Protective Services. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-703-324-7948 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Fairfax County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Fairfax County Department of Family 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 Fairfax County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Inova Fairfax Hospital (Inova Fairfax Medical Campus) for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. In-county flagship hospital (3300 Gallows Rd, Falls Church address, Fairfax County). System-level financial assistance policy; apply via MyChart, mail, or in person.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Fairfax County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $90,000 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $400,000 or less. Relief brackets: 100% relief at income $60,000 or less; 75% at $60,001-$70,000; 50% at $70,001-$80,000; 25% at $80,001-$90,000. Returning applicants must file by May 1, 2026. Separate vehicle ($22,000 income/$75,000 assets) and renter relief programs exist. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

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

Fairfax Connector serves Fairfax County with Fixed-route county bus network with half fare for seniors 65+ using a Senior SmarTrip card or by showing a Medicare/Medicaid card; regular fare $2.25, senior $1.10 ($4.80/$2.40 express). WMATA Metrorail/Metrobus also serve the county with the Senior SmarTrip 50% discount (65+). 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.

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