How to apply for Georgia Non-Medicaid Home & Community-Based Services

Who it's for

Georgia's Non-Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services help older Georgians live safely and independently at home when they don't qualify for Medicaid. Funded largely through the Older Americans Act and state aging dollars, the program offers a range of supports through the local Area Agencies on Aging — including in-home personal care and homemaker help, home-delivered and congregate meals, transportation, adult day care, home modifications and assistive devices, and care coordination. Services are for adults 60 and older, prioritized for those with the greatest social and economic need; there is generally no strict income test, though a voluntary cost-share may be suggested. Because funding is limited, there can be a waiting list. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or the Aging & Disability Resource Connection to find what's available in your area.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 60+ and Georgia residency
• A description of the help needed (in-home care, meals, transportation)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Georgia Non-Medicaid Home & Community-Based Services. 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+ and Georgia residency, a description of the help needed (in-home care, meals, transportation) — 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. Gather proof that you are age 60 or older and proof of Georgia residency — for example, a government-issued ID or birth certificate and a utility bill or lease.
2. Think through the types of help you need, such as in-home personal care, meals, transportation, or other supports. Be ready to describe these needs when you apply.
3. Apply online through the official program portal or call the Aging & Disability Resource Connection toll-free at 866-552-4464 to apply by phone.
4. Speak with a local Area Agency on Aging representative who will review your situation and explain which services are available in your area.
5. Complete a needs assessment with the agency. A staff member will ask about your daily living challenges and social and economic circumstances to determine priority and appropriate services.
6. Ask about any waiting list for services in your area, since funding is limited and availability varies by location. The agency can give you an estimate of current wait times.
7. If approved, review your service plan and ask about any voluntary cost-share that may be suggested based on your circumstances.

What to expect: After submitting your application, a local Area Agency on Aging representative will follow up to conduct a needs assessment and confirm which services are available near you. Because funding is limited, you may be placed on a waiting list — ask the agency for a current estimate of wait times, as processing and service start times vary. If you are approved, your services will be reviewed through an annual reassessment to make sure your plan still fits your needs. Keep in mind that these services are targeted to adults 60 and older with the greatest social and economic need; there is generally no strict income test, but service availability depends on local funding and your individual assessment.

Renewals

annual reassessment