Federal Resources for Seniors
Official U.S. government sources for the programs older adults ask about most. These links go directly to the agencies themselves, so the information you read is authoritative and current. We summarize what each resource offers rather than reproducing government content.
Retirement & Disability Benefits
U.S. Social Security Administration
Social Security Administration
Official source for Social Security retirement, survivors, and disability (SSDI/SSI) benefits — apply, check status, and find local offices.
External links do not imply endorsement.
Health Coverage
U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Medicare.gov
Official Medicare information: coverage, costs, plan comparisons, and appeals.
External links do not imply endorsement.
U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Medicaid.gov
Official federal Medicaid information. State programs set their own eligibility rules — check your state's Medicaid agency for details.
External links do not imply endorsement.
Aging Services & Long-Term Care
U.S. Administration for Community Living
Eldercare Locator
National directory connecting older adults and caregivers with local aging services — Area Agencies on Aging, transportation, meals, and more.
External links do not imply endorsement.
National Council on Aging
National Council on Aging
Benefits counseling tools (BenefitsCheckUp), falls prevention, and economic security resources for older adults.
External links do not imply endorsement.
Elder Abuse & Consumer Protection
USC Center for Elder Justice
National Center on Elder Abuse
Research, statistics, and state reporting resources on elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
External links do not imply endorsement.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
Office for Older Americans
Federal resources on financial exploitation of older adults — guides for caregivers, powers of attorney, and reporting fraud.
External links do not imply endorsement.
General Government Information
Before You Apply for Benefits
- Eligibility varies. Federal programs set national rules, but details — especially for Medicaid — differ by state.
- Free help exists. Programs like SHINE (for Medicare) and your local Area Agency on Aging offer free, unbiased counseling. Find yours through the Eldercare Locator.
- Beware of impostors. Government agencies will not call demanding payment or personal information. Report suspected scams to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
These are official government resources provided for information only. LegalHelpForSenior.com is not affiliated with any government agency. Read our full legal disclaimer.