How to apply for Elderly Legal Assistance Program (ELAP) in Georgia

Who it's for

Free civil legal help for Georgians 60 and older. ELAP handles public benefits, Social Security, healthcare and long-term care facility issues, consumer protection, housing and utilities, abuse/neglect/exploitation, age discrimination, and planning documents like advance directives. There is no income test, and clients never pay — the state pays local law firms to provide the services. Call the Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 866-552-4464 to find the ELAP law firm for your county.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 60+
• Documents related to your legal issue

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Elderly Legal Assistance Program (ELAP). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age 60+, documents related to your legal issue — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Call the Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 866-552-4464 or apply online to find the ELAP law firm that serves your county.
2. Once you have your county's ELAP law firm contact, call the correct regional intake number: 404-389-9992 for Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Fulton, and Gwinnett counties; 706-369-7147 for Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Greene, Jackson, Jasper, Madison, Morgan, Newton, Oconee, Oglethorpe, and Walton counties; 833-457-7529 for all other Georgia counties.
3. Gather proof that you are age 60 or older, such as a government-issued ID, birth certificate, or Medicare card.
4. Collect any documents related to your legal issue — for example, notices, letters, bills, lease agreements, or benefit denial letters.
5. Complete the intake process with the regional law firm by phone or online, describing your legal situation clearly.
6. Wait to hear whether the local ELAP law firm can take your case — program capacity is limited, and the law firm decides if your case qualifies.

What to expect: After you submit your intake information, the regional ELAP law firm will review your situation. ELAP handles civil cases — not criminal matters — where the circumstances put your life or well-being at risk. Because program capacity is limited, the law firm will let you know whether it is able to take your case. Processing times vary, so ask the law firm for an estimate when you call. There is no income test, and you will never be charged for services — the state of Georgia pays the law firms directly. ELAP does not list a set renewal period; if your legal needs change in the future, you may contact the intake line again.