Senior benefits in Mathews County, Virginia

Bay Aging is the Area Agency on Aging for Mathews County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Bay Aging (PSA 17/18, Urbanna) provides Meals on Wheels, in-home and personal care, Bay Transit public transportation, caregiver support, VICAP insurance counseling, Active Lifestyle Centers and adult day services across the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 804-758-2386 (intake 1-800-493-0238) to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Mathews County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Mathews 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 Mathews County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. No hospital in Mathews County; nearest is Riverside Walter Reed Hospital in Gloucester, roughly 15 miles from Mathews Court House.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Mathews 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 804-725-7168 for the current figures and an application. Applications are due to the Commissioner of Revenue by March 15 each year.

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

Bay Transit (a division of Bay Aging) serves Mathews County with Demand-response public transit (call 24 hours ahead), Mon-Fri 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.; $2.00 per ride with $12.00 10-ticket discount books; no separate senior fare published. Microtransit zones in Gloucester, West Point, Tappahannock and New Kent are $1.00 per boarding. 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 1-877-869-6046 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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