Senior benefits in Roanoke City, Virginia

Local Office on Aging, Inc. (LOA Area Agency on Aging) is the Area Agency on Aging for the City of Roanoke. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Meals on Wheels, nutrition programs, health and wellness, legal assistance, ombudsman, dementia support, and caregiver respite for adults 60+ in the 5th Planning District. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-540-345-0451 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in the City of Roanoke pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Roanoke City 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 the City of Roanoke can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. In-city flagship hospital: Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, 1906 Belleview Avenue SE, Roanoke, VA 24014. Carilion FAP: 100% assistance under 300% FPG with assets under $25,000; assistance up to 500% FPG / assets under $100,000.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

City of Roanoke offers real estate tax relief (freeze) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $51,200 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $160,000 or less. Real estate tax amounts are frozen at the amount assessed at the time of application. Applications accepted April 1 - May 31 each year; administered by the Commissioner of the Revenue. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

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

In this county: Limits shown are City of Roanoke's current published figures; relief brackets, filing windows, and exclusions are set by local ordinance and the locality makes the final determination, so this shows as a may-qualify result.

Valley Metro (Greater Roanoke Transit Company) serves the City of Roanoke with Fixed-route city bus network with a half-price discount fare for riders 65+ (Valley Metro Discount ID required, issued at 307 Salem Ave SW); STAR ADA paratransit is operated by RADAR; MetroFLX microtransit covers evenings. 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 1-540-982-2222 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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