Senior benefits in Rappahannock County, Virginia

Encompass Community Supports Area Agency on Aging (formerly Rappahannock-Rapidan Community Services) is the Area Agency on Aging for Rappahannock 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 Rappahannock County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Rappahannock 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 Rappahannock County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Fauquier Hospital (Warrenton) 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 Fauquier Hospital in Warrenton (~23 miles from Washington, VA). UVA Culpeper Medical Center is a comparable-distance alternative.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Rappahannock County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $50,000 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $200,000 or less. Exemption applied to the dwelling and up to five acres; maximum award $2,500 per applicant; annual reapplication (returning applicants Jan 1 - Apr 1, new applicants Jan 1 - Jun 1); if income is $25,000 or less, 100% exempt up to the maximum. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

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

Rappahannock County has no fixed-route public bus. Encompass Community Supports arranges rides to medical and other important appointments for community members in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, Orange, and Rappahannock counties. Call Encompass at 540-825-3100 to learn more or to ask for a ride. For other transportation options in the region, call the RTC Mobility Center at 540-829-5300. Rides are free or low-cost depending on the service.

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