Senior benefits in Charlevoix County, Michigan

The Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Michigan is the Area Agency on Aging for Charlevoix County. Services include care management, home and community-based care, caregiver support, Medicare/Medicaid counseling (MMAP), long-term care options counseling, and help applying for the MI Choice waiver. Adults age 60 and over, and adults with disabilities, can call 1-800-442-1713 to ask what help is available.

Estimated service value: $1,500–$6,000 a year

The Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency (NMCAA) is the community action agency serving Charlevoix County. It helps low-income households with heating and electric bills, shutoff protection, weatherization, and energy self-sufficiency planning through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP). Apply for state energy help through MI Bridges, dial 211 for local referrals, or call NMCAA at 231-947-3780.

Estimated bill savings: $200–$1,500 a year

Munson Healthcare Charlevoix Hospital serves Charlevoix County and offers financial assistance for emergency and medically necessary care. Patients with family income at or below 249% of the federal poverty level can get fully discounted care, and a 75% discount for income from 250% to 400%. Apply by submitting a Financial Assistance Application with proof of income; call Patient Financial Services at 231-935-7062 or 1-800-437-3615 for help.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

The Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency helps income-eligible homeowners in Charlevoix County fix urgent problems that make a home unsafe — a leaking roof, dangerous wiring, plumbing leaks, a failed furnace or water heater, a well or septic system, or a needed wheelchair ramp or accessible bathroom. Repairs under $2,500 are a grant with nothing to pay back; larger repairs are a 0% loan with no monthly payments that is repaid only when the home changes owners. Charlevoix and Emmet homeowners may also be able to get CHILL funding for larger repairs such as roofs, siding, windows, and insulation. Funds are limited. Email HEESIntake@nmcaa.net, fill out the pre-screen application on the NMCAA website, or call 231-947-3780.

Charlevoix County Transit runs dial-a-ride bus service across Charlevoix County for rides to medical appointments, errands, work, and community life. Residents age 60 and over and veterans ride fare-free through a partnership with the Charlevoix County Commission on Aging and the county Department of Veterans Affairs. Call dispatch at 231-582-6900 to schedule a ride.

Estimated service value: $200–$1,200 a year

In this county: Rides are open to all county residents; residents 60+ and veterans ride fare-free via a Commission on Aging / Veterans Affairs partnership. Not legal or financial advice.