Senior benefits in Garfield County, Washington

Southeast WA Aging and Long Term Care (ALTC - Southeast Washington) is the Area Agency on Aging for Garfield County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Designated AAA for an eight-county area including Garfield County, operating county Aging and Disability Resource Centers. Services include information and referral, case management, senior nutrition programs, transportation (senior transportation program available in Garfield County), benefits assistance, health and wellness, senior foot care, legal services, and caregiver support. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-509-965-0105 to get started.

$500–$6,000/yr

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Garfield County pay home heating bills, with emergency help for shut-offs. The Washington Department of Commerce funds the program, and Blue Mountain Action Council (BMAC) takes applications and delivers benefits for this county. Older adults and people with disabilities are prioritized. Assistance is usually available once a year while funds last. Call 1-509-529-4980 to apply.

$300–$1,000/yr

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Garfield County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Garfield County Memorial Hospital (Garfield County Hospital District) for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. Pomeroy. Billing page describes the Financial Assistance Program / Charity Assistance with financial counselors at 509-843-1591 ext. 141/147. Charity care policy on file with WA DOH: https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/hospital-policies/CCP082.pdf.

Garfield County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 61 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $47,000 or less. RCW 84.36.381 senior/disabled exemption. Garfield County exemption threshold (Income Threshold 3) is $47,000 for tax years 2024-2026; deferral threshold $49,562. County site redirects from co.garfield.wa.us to garfieldcountywa.gov (Cloudflare-protected). Apply through the county assessor's office.

$200–$3,000/yr

Garfield County Transportation Authority (GCTA) serves Garfield County with County public transportation authority based in Pomeroy: weekday commuter run and Monday-Thursday medical/shopper service to Clarkston/Lewiston plus local weekday service; rides are fare-free (donations accepted), so no senior fare distinction applies. Reservations required by 4:00 PM the day before.. 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 1-509-843-0200 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

$150–$1,500/yr