For millions of seniors across the United States, the rising cost of living — from groceries and medications to housing and utilities — is creating unprecedented financial strain. Yet, what many don’t realize is that billions of dollars in aid are left unclaimed every year because many retirees simply aren’t aware of the benefits available to them.
This article uncovers 10 lesser-known senior benefits that could collectively save you over $10,000 a year. Whether you’re on Social Security, living on a pension, or managing limited retirement savings, these programs can make a meaningful difference in your day-to-day life.
1. Medicare Savings Programs — Save Up to $2,000 a Year
If you’re paying out of pocket for Medicare premiums or copays, there’s a good chance you could qualify for help through one of the Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs).
These state-run programs cover Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance for eligible low-to-moderate-income seniors. Depending on your income, this could mean saving up to $2,000 a year or more.
👉 How to Apply: Contact your state’s Medicaid office or visit Medicare.gov.
2. Extra Help with Prescription Drugs — Worth $5,000+ in Annual Value
Prescription medications are one of the biggest expenses for seniors. The “Extra Help” program, administered by the Social Security Administration, assists with Part D prescription drug costs, often reducing copays to just a few dollars per medication.
Most beneficiaries save an average of $4,000–$5,000 a year on prescriptions — yet millions don’t realize they qualify automatically if they receive SSI or Medicaid.
👉 Tip: Even if you don’t automatically qualify, you can apply directly at ssa.gov/extrahelp.
3. Senior Property Tax Exemptions — Save $1,000–$3,000 a Year
Owning a home in retirement can be both a blessing and a financial burden. Luckily, most states offer senior property tax exemptions that reduce or freeze property taxes for homeowners over a certain age, typically 65.
Depending on where you live, this can translate into annual savings of $1,000–$3,000. Some counties even provide full exemptions for veterans or low-income retirees.
👉 Check your local assessor’s office for senior-specific exemptions in your area.
4. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) — Up to $1,200
Heating and cooling costs can take a major bite out of fixed incomes, especially during extreme winters or hot summers. LIHEAP helps qualifying seniors pay for electricity, heating oil, and cooling bills.
Some states also offer weatherization assistance, covering insulation or furnace repairs, saving another few hundred dollars annually.
Average annual savings: $800–$1,200
👉 Apply at: benefits.gov/LIHEAP.
5. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) — $1,500+ in Grocery Savings
You might think of SNAP as a working-age benefit, but it’s also designed for retirees and disabled adults. The average senior who qualifies can receive $150–$200 per month in grocery credits — that’s up to $2,400 a year in food savings.
Better yet, many states have simplified SNAP applications for seniors, eliminating complex reporting requirements.
👉 Apply online: benefitscheckup.org.
6. Lifeline Phone & Internet Discounts — Up to $600 a Year
Staying connected is essential, especially for seniors relying on telehealth services or keeping in touch with family. The Lifeline program offers monthly discounts of $9.25 on phone or internet service.
Additionally, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provides up to $30 per month toward broadband, making total potential savings nearly $600 per year.
👉 Apply at: getinternet.gov.
7. Senior Transportation Assistance — Up to $1,000 in Savings
Many cities and counties offer low-cost or free transportation for seniors, including shuttle buses to medical appointments, grocery stores, or community centers.
This can save hundreds in gas, ride-share fees, or public transport costs — often $500–$1,000 annually depending on usage.
👉 Find local programs through: your Area Agency on Aging (AAA).
8. Senior Home Repair & Accessibility Grants — Up to $10,000 Lifetime Benefit
Falling is one of the biggest health risks for older adults, and the cost of home modifications — like grab bars, ramps, or stair lifts — can be overwhelming. Programs like the USDA Rural Repair and Rehabilitation Grant or HUD’s Home Modification Program offer up to $10,000 in assistance.
These funds can make your home safer and more livable while increasing its long-term value.
👉 Apply through: usda.gov or your local housing office.
9. State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs) — Up to $2,000 in Added Savings
Beyond federal “Extra Help,” many states run their own pharmaceutical assistance programs that help cover drug costs for seniors who don’t fully qualify for federal aid.
These can include discounts on brand-name medications, annual reimbursements, or even premium assistance for Medicare Part D.
👉 Find programs in your state: medicare.gov/pharmaceutical-assistance-program.
10. Senior Discounts You’re Probably Missing — Worth $1,000+ a Year
Finally, don’t overlook the power of senior discounts. From 10% off at grocery stores to 30% off travel fares, these savings add up quickly.
Common examples include:
- Walgreens: 20% off every first Tuesday of the month
- Amtrak: 10% off fares for seniors 65+
- AARP Members: Up to 25% off hotels, car rentals, and restaurants
- National Parks: Lifetime Senior Pass for $80 — a huge value for nature lovers
Annual estimated savings: $1,000–$1,500
💡 Bonus Tip: Combine Benefits for Maximum Impact
These programs aren’t mutually exclusive — in fact, most seniors qualify for multiple benefits simultaneously. For instance, you could pair Medicare Savings with SNAP and LIHEAP, saving thousands more per year.
Use BenefitsCheckUp.org (run by the National Council on Aging) to see exactly which programs you qualify for in minutes.
📊 Putting It All Together: Your Potential Annual Savings
| Benefit | Estimated Yearly Savings |
|---|---|
| Medicare Savings Programs | $2,000 |
| Extra Help (Drugs) | $4,500 |
| Property Tax Exemptions | $2,000 |
| LIHEAP Energy Assistance | $1,000 |
| SNAP Food Assistance | $1,800 |
| Lifeline/ACP | $600 |
| Senior Transportation | $800 |
| Home Repair Grants | $10,000 (lifetime value) |
| SPAPs | $2,000 |
| Senior Discounts | $1,200 |
| Total Possible Savings | $10,000+ per year |
🏁 The Bottom Line
Most of these benefits aren’t new — they’ve simply been overlooked, underpublicized, or buried in complex government websites. But with a little effort, you could unlock thousands in hidden savings each year and dramatically reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
As inflation continues to erode fixed incomes, it’s more important than ever for seniors to claim the support they’re entitled to. Start by reviewing your eligibility for the programs above — and don’t hesitate to seek help from local aging agencies or community organizations.
Your retirement years should be about enjoying life — not worrying about bills. With the right information, you can reclaim up to $10,000 a year in benefits you may not even know existed.