Senior benefits in Allamakee County, Iowa

Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging (NEI3A) is the Area Agency on Aging for Allamakee County. It helps older adults stay independent at home. Its services include options counseling, case management, meal programs, caregiver support, respite services, health and wellness programs, advocacy, and recreation and education programs. NEI3A has offices in Decorah, Dubuque and Waterloo. Call toll-free 1-800-779-8707 to get started.

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

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay part of winter heating costs and can help in an energy crisis. In Allamakee County, Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation (NEICAC) takes applications. Homeowners and renters with income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines may qualify. Households with a member 60 or older, a disabled member, or a disconnect notice can apply starting October 1; all other households can apply starting November 1. Regular applications are taken October through April, and crisis requests are taken all year. NEICAC has a family services office in Waukon (955 3rd Avenue NW, office 563-568-4224) and Postville (116 E Military Rd). To book an appointment or have an application mailed, call 563-382-8436.

Estimated bill savings: $80–$800 a year

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) office for Allamakee County (Allamakee County HHS) is at 12 1st Ave NW, Waukon, IA 52172. It is open by appointment only and is served by the Winneshiek County office in Decorah. You can apply at a local HHS office for SNAP food benefits, Medicaid and Rent Reimbursement (up to $1000 back on rent for income-eligible older or disabled renters). You can also apply online through the Iowa HHS Benefits Portal. Call 563-382-2928 or toll-free 800-611-7781.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon aims to give care regardless of ability to pay. If you cannot pay your whole bill, the hospital will work with you on a reasonable payment plan and review whether you qualify for financial assistance. Tell the business office as soon as possible if paying will be hard. The business office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 3:30 pm. Call 563-568-3411 and ask for a Financial Services Representative. A financial assistance policy and application are on the hospital's website.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

EARL Public Transit, run by Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation (NEICAC), is the Region 1 public transit provider for Allamakee County. All rides are open to the general public, including people with disabilities, and vehicles are wheelchair accessible with lift assistance. EARL offers demand-response rides for work, school, shopping and errands, leisure activities and non-emergency medical appointments. Call toll-free 1-866-382-4259 to schedule a ride. Online scheduling is available for in-town routes once your account is set up.

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

The Allamakee County Veterans Affairs office at 110 Allamakee Street, Waukon, IA 52172 helps veterans and their families. The office helps honorably discharged veterans, their spouses and eligible dependents apply for benefits such as pension, compensation, grave markers, burial benefits, life insurance and health benefits, and can request military records and medals. It also gives temporary emergency help with basic needs, such as rent, food, burial, utilities and emergency medical costs. The office coordinates a van to the Iowa City VA Medical Center, Tuesday through Friday. Call the office at 563-568-6135.

Estimated cash: about $0 a year