Senior benefits in Sussex County, Virginia

Crater District Area Agency on Aging is the Area Agency on Aging for Sussex County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Nutrition program (home-delivered meals and senior-center meals), door-to-door senior transportation for an income-based fee, homemaker in-home assistance, case management, VICAP insurance counseling, long-term-care ombudsman, Senior Medicare Patrol, and health education across Planning District 19. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-804-732-7020 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Sussex County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Sussex 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 Sussex County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Bon Secours Southside 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 are Bon Secours Southside Medical Center in Petersburg (~20-25 miles from Stony Creek/Waverly) and Bon Secours Southern Virginia Medical Center in Emporia to the south — both under the same Bon Secours FAP (100% assistance at or below 200% FPG; discounts 201-400% FPG).

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Sussex County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $25,000 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $100,000 or less. Exemption from real-estate taxes on house and lot for owners 65+ or permanently and totally disabled; income limit $25,000 (first $5,000 of each relative's income excluded); gross combined financial worth limit $100,000 excluding the dwelling and up to one acre. Must be filed every year, due on or before April 1, 2026. Limits published in the Commissioner of the Revenue's requirements PDF (linked from the Commissioner page). Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

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