Senior benefits in Hanover County, Virginia

The Span Center (formerly Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging) is the Area Agency on Aging for Hanover County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Area Agency on Aging (PSA 15) serving Hanover County. Home-delivered meals, Friendship Cafes, in-home care, care coordination, caregiver support, VICAP Medicare counseling, ombudsman, legal services and fraud prevention. Ride Connection provides transportation referrals for Hanover residents. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-804-343-3000 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Hanover County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Hanover 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 Hanover County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. Mechanicsville (Hanover County). FAP: 100% financial assistance at or below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines; discounts to 400% FPG.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Hanover County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $60,000 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $400,000 or less. Partial exemption for owners 65+ or totally and permanently disabled who live on the property. 'The net worth limit is $400,000 and does not include the value of the house and up to 10 acres.' Relief is a percentage based on income, multiplied by qualifying owners' ownership share; 'The maximum amount of annual relief given is $3,500.00.' Applications due March 1 annually. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

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

Hanover DASH (Hanover County specialized transportation) serves Hanover County with No fixed-route public transit; Hanover DASH is county-run door-to-door, on-demand transportation (contracted through UZURV) within Hanover County and surrounding areas, daily 6 am to 6 pm, for residents 65+ or with a disability. 'Rides are a flat rate of $5 per one-way trip and $10 per round trip.'. 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 1-804-365-3274 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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