Senior benefits in Henrico County, Virginia

The Span Center (formerly Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging) is the Area Agency on Aging for Henrico County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Area Agency on Aging (PSA 15) serving Henrico County. Home-delivered meals, Friendship Cafes, in-home care, care coordination, Ride Connection transportation, caregiver support, VICAP Medicare counseling, ombudsman, legal services and fraud prevention. 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 Henrico County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Henrico 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 Henrico County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Henrico Doctors' Hospital for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. 1602 Skipwith Rd, Richmond (Henrico County). HCA charity discount policy: 'In most cases, this will apply to patients who fall between 0 - 200% of the Federal Poverty Level' (100% charity discount); expanded assistance 201-400% FPL for balances over $1,500. Bon Secours St. Mary's Hospital is also in Henrico.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Henrico County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $75,000 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $500,000 or less. REAP (Real Estate Advantage Program): exemption relieving real estate tax up to a maximum of $3,200/year; 'Maximum total net worth allowed is $500,000' (excludes dwelling and up to 10 acres); age 65+ or 100% permanently and totally disabled; filing deadline April 1. Alternative RECAP program caps tax bills for income up to $125,000 / net worth up to $750,000. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

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

GRTC buses serve Henrico County and all buses are currently zero fare, so anyone can ride free. CARE paratransit gives rides within 3/4 mile of bus routes for people whose disability keeps them from using the bus, and riders 80 or older are automatically eligible. CARE hours for Henrico residents are 6:00 am to 11:00 pm. No fare is charged on CARE or CARE Plus until further notice. Book at least one day ahead at (804) 782-2273. For an 80+ ID card or help with eligibility, call GRTC's Eligibility Coordinator at (804) 358-3871 ext. 434.

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