Senior benefits in Jefferson County, Washington

Aging & Adult Services of Coastal Washington (formerly Olympic Area Agency on Aging / O3A) is the Area Agency on Aging for Jefferson County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Serves Clallam, Jefferson, Grays Harbor, and Pacific counties: senior meals/nutrition, volunteer transportation, Medicaid in-home care case management, family caregiver support, dementia outreach, and SHIBA Medicare counseling. DSHS directory: 'A free information and referral service for adults 60 and over, Tribal members 55 and older, persons with disabilities, and family and friends helping with their care.' Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-360-385-2552 to get started.

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

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Jefferson County pay home heating bills, with emergency help for shut-offs. The Washington Department of Commerce funds the program, and Olympic Community Action Programs (OlyCAP) 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 1-360-385-2571 to apply.

Estimated bill savings: $300–$1,000 a year

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Jefferson County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Jefferson Healthcare (Port Townsend) for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. Charity care and financial assistance under Washington's Charity Care Act: full charity care for patients with gross family income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty standard, and a discounted/sliding fee schedule for income below 400 percent of the federal poverty standard. 'No one will be denied access to services due to inability to pay.'

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Jefferson County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 61 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $45,000 or less. Washington senior/disabled property tax exemption (RCW 84.36.381). Jefferson County assessor page states 'At least age 61 by December 31st of the previous year' and annual gross income cannot exceed $45,000; disability paths include 100% service-connected disability, Social Security disability determination, or doctor's letter. Matches DOR Income Threshold 3 for Jefferson ($45,000) in the TY2024-2026 publication (https://dor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2023-08/Income_ThreshTY24-26.pdf). Apply through the county assessor's office.

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

Jefferson Transit Authority serves Jefferson County with All Jefferson Transit routes are fare-free, so no senior reduced fare is needed. Dial-A-Ride paratransit (360-385-4777 x2) serves Jefferson County residents whose disability or health condition prevents use of fixed-route buses. 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 1-360-385-4777 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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