Senior benefits in Madison County, Virginia

Encompass Community Supports Area Agency on Aging (formerly Rappahannock-Rapidan Community Services) is the Area Agency on Aging for Madison County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to AAA for Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, Orange, and Rappahannock counties (PSA 09). Adults 60+ services: home-delivered meals, adult day supports, support coordination, caregiver supports, housing resources, summer cooling assistance, social activities. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-540-825-3100 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Madison County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Madison 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 Madison County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at UVA Culpeper Medical Center for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. No in-county hospital; nearest is UVA Culpeper Medical Center in Culpeper, roughly 15 miles from the Town of Madison. Covered by the UVA Health financial-aid policy ('Culpeper Medical Center' listed).

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Madison County offers real estate tax relief (deferral) 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 $75,000 or less. Madison County operates a tax DEFERRAL (not exemption) for elderly (65+) or permanently and totally disabled owners: income may not exceed $30,000 and net worth may not exceed $75,000. Applications accepted January 1 - April 1 annually; denied if postmarked after April 1. Commissioner of Revenue (540) 948-7500 x1230 or (540) 948-4421. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

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

Encompass Community Supports local transportation / RTC Mobility Center serves Madison County with No fixed-route public transit in Madison County. Demand-response: Encompass Community Supports (with the RTC Mobility Center, 540-829-5300) arranges transportation to medical and other important appointments for community members in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, Orange, and Rappahannock counties. Encompass main line (540) 825-3100. 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 540-825-3100 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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