Senior benefits in Jackson County, Alabama

The Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments (TARCOG) runs the Area Agency on Aging for DeKalb, Jackson, Limestone, Madison and Marshall counties, including Jackson County. It plans and funds services that help people over 60 stay independent. Services include information and referral, caregiver support, legal help, the long-term care ombudsman, senior centers, nutrition and home-delivered meals, transportation, case management, and homemaker and personal care. Call 256-830-0818 for senior or disability services, or to make a referral.

Estimated service value: $200–$2,000 a year

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay home energy bills. In Jackson County, LIHEAP applications are taken by the Community Action Agency of Northeast Alabama. Household income for the previous month must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. Make an appointment on the agency's website or call 256-638-4430. The Jackson County office is at 205 Liberty Lane, Scottsboro. Help depends on available funds.

Estimated bill savings: $280–$1,100 a year

Highlands Medical Center in Scottsboro, part of Huntsville Hospital Health System (HH Health), has a charity care and financial assistance program for patients who cannot afford their hospital bills. Under its policy, patients with household income below 125% of the federal poverty level can get 100% charity care, with smaller discounts (75%, 50%, 25%) up to 200% of poverty. Eligibility is based on household income, assets, and the federal poverty guidelines. Assistance covers hospital charges only, not separate doctor bills. Call a financial counselor at 256-218-3780 for help applying.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Jackson County Rural Public Transportation (RPT), run by the Jackson County Council on Aging, gives rides within Jackson County with no age limit. Call at least one day ahead, by 2 p.m. the day before; rides can be booked up to 2 weeks ahead. The Council on Aging's fare table charges riders over 60 $4 for the first pickup of the day ($5 under 60), plus 25 cents for each extra pickup; the Alabama Department of Public Health directory lists $5.25 one way, so ask the current fare when booking and have the exact amount. Some buses have wheelchair lifts. Call 256-574-6733, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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