Senior benefits in Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison County, LIHEAP is run by Community Action Partnership Huntsville/Madison & Limestone Counties. Households can get one heating payment and one cooling payment a year, and households with older adults, people with disabilities, or children may get extra crisis help when funds allow. Payments go straight to the utility. Call the automated scheduler at 256-907-1550 for an appointment, or apply online through the agency's LITT Lite portal.

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

Huntsville Hospital in Huntsville, part of Huntsville Hospital Health System (HH Health), offers financial assistance to uninsured and underinsured patients for emergency and medically necessary hospital care. Under the system policy, patients with household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level can get this care free, and patients below 400% can get discounts. 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 256-265-9689 for help applying.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

TRAM is a public transportation service for anyone who lives in rural Madison County. Rides run Monday through Thursday 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Friday 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Schedule 24 hours ahead, weekdays between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Riders need a ticket ($8 one-way, $10 round-trip), bought at the TRAM office or by mail. Vehicles have wheelchair lifts. Call 256-532-3792.

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