Every year, billions of dollars in public and private benefits go unclaimed by older Americans who are eligible but never apply. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)– a U.S. government agency created to protect Americans from unfair financial practices and to help them make smarter money decisions – has consistently flagged this gap as one of the most preventable forms of financial loss in retirement. The CFPB’s Office of Financial Protection for Older Americans was specifically built to address it. That office works to help protect and advance the interests of approximately 55 million U.S. consumers who are at least 62 years old.
The word “benefits” covers a wide range here. It includes federal assistance programs, state-run savings plans, and private-sector senior discounts that companies rarely advertise but will honor when asked. The distinction matters because many retirees think they “don’t qualify” for help – and they never check. Others assume discounts only apply to restaurants or movie tickets. Both assumptions cost real money every year.
More than 2,000 public and private senior benefits programs exist nationwide, yet thousands of older Americans miss these resources each year. The list below covers 30 of the most commonly overlooked – drawn from CFPB guidance, National Council on Aging (NCOA) research, and current program data. Each one is real, currently active, and accessible to most adults over 60 or 65.
Why So Many Seniors Miss Out on Federal Benefits Each Year
Many older Americans are relying on Social Security for more of their income for a longer period of time, but end up receiving lower monthly benefits by claiming early. That’s just one example of a bigger pattern. Across all benefit categories – food, healthcare, housing, utilities, and retail – retirees routinely leave money behind. The primary reason is not laziness or lack of need. Many don’t know that such offerings exist, while others are unsure of how to apply or if they qualify. Some worry they’d be using resources better suited for others who need them more – but that’s simply not the case.
According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data, the poverty rate among adults age 65 and older was 11.3% in 2023. In 2022, roughly 8.2 million Americans age 65 and older were economically insecure, living with incomes below the poverty threshold. Those numbers alone suggest that the benefits gap is not a minor issue. It represents real hardship for millions of households.
As Josh Hodges, NCOA’s Chief Customer Officer, put it: *”These expenses can really hit hard for older adults living on fixed incomes – even those who are budget-minded and meticulous about their spending.”* With Social Security benefits having increased just 2.5% in 2025, those extra dollars “don’t bridge these inflation gaps,” Hodges added. The 30 items below exist to help close that gap
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs)
Medicare Savings Programs cover Medicare costs for low-income seniors, yet less than half of eligible beneficiaries enroll in these state-run programs. These programs can reduce healthcare expenses by thousands of dollars annually. There are four MSP types. At a minimum, the MSPs pay for a person’s monthly Part B premium, which is $185 per month in 2025, or $2,220 annually. Apply through your state Medicaid office – eligibility is based on income and resources, and thresholds are higher than most people assume.
Medicare Part D Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy)
When budgets get tight, many low-income older adults go without the vital medications they need to stay healthy – whether cutting pills in half or skipping doses altogether. Medicare’s Extra Help program can help lower out-of-pocket costs for the medications its members depend on. This federal program pays part or all of your Part D drug plan premiums, deductibles, and co-pays. Apply directly through the Social Security Administration online or by phone.
The $2,000 Medicare Part D Out-of-Pocket Cap
Starting in 2025, there is a hard ceiling on prescription drug spending under Medicare. Annual out-of-pocket Medicare Part D drug costs are now capped at $2,000, as changes enacted with the Inflation Reduction Act go into effect. Before this change, costs could run into the tens of thousands for seniors with complex medication needs. If you haven’t reviewed your Part D plan in light of this cap, do so during the next open enrollment window.
Capped Insulin Costs Under Medicare
Insulin costs have been capped at $35 per month, both under Medicare Part D covered treatments and Medicare Part B covered insulin used with pumps. Many diabetic seniors are still paying more than this because they haven’t switched to an eligible plan or updated their coverage. Contact your plan provider directly and ask whether the $35 cap applies to your current prescription.
SNAP Food Benefits for Seniors
The average monthly SNAP benefit for an older adult living alone is $188 per month. But nearly 60% of seniors who qualify for SNAP do not enroll, according to 2024 data published by the Food Research and Action Center. That’s an estimated 4.2 million people missing out on food assistance, amounting to $5.3 billion each year. Apply through your state’s SNAP office or use the NCOA’s BenefitsCheckUp tool to verify eligibility and find local enrollment help.
The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program
The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program provides access to fresh produce for qualifying older adults. Administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the program gives low-income seniors coupons they can use at participating farmers markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture programs. Income eligibility is set at or below 185% of the federal poverty level.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
If you find it challenging to keep up with your heating and cooling bills, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can offer relief. LIHEAP is a federal program that helps eligible households pay energy bills, make emergency repairs, and weatherize their homes. Apply through your state energy office. Priority is typically given to seniors over 60, households with young children, and people with disabilities.
The Lifeline Phone and Internet Subsidy
If your income is at or less than 135% of the federal poverty guidelines – $28,552.50 per year for a two-person household in 2025 – you may qualify for the Lifeline program. This program provides a monthly stipend to help you pay for phone or internet service. Enrollment is handled through the Universal Service Administrative Company. It is a federal benefit, not a charity – you are entitled to it if you meet the income threshold.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is a federal program that provides monthly cash payments to adults aged 65 or older with limited income and resources. Many seniors who are not eligible for regular Social Security retirement benefits still qualify for SSI. In 2025, the federal maximum monthly SSI payment is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. Apply through the Social Security Administration.
Delaying Social Security to Increase Your Lifetime Benefit
For every year you delay taking out benefits after you reach full retirement age, your benefits increase by 8% until you reach the age of 70. You automatically save more money when you delay drawing Social Security. Most retirees claim early and lock in a permanently reduced check for life. The CFPB’s Planning for Retirement tool lets you compare projected benefit amounts at different claiming ages before you decide.
Social Security Spousal and Survivor Benefits
If you were married for at least 10 years, you may be entitled to Social Security benefits based on your spouse’s work record – even if you are divorced. Surviving spouses can claim as much as 100% of their deceased spouse’s benefit. The Social Security Fairness Act, signed in January 2025, also restored spousal and widows’ benefits previously reduced by the Government Pension Offset. Contact the SSA directly to find out whether you qualify under these restored provisions.
The Social Security Fairness Act Retroactive Payments
President Biden signed the Social Security Fairness Act into law on January 5, 2025, repealing the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset. The law restored full Social Security benefits to millions of retired public service workers, including federal retirees covered by the Civil Service Retirement System. If you were a public sector worker or have a spouse who was, check with the Social Security Administration immediately to confirm you are receiving your corrected benefit amount and any retroactive payments owed to you.
Free Tax Preparation Through VITA and TCE
The federal government offers free tax preparation help to those who qualify through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. TCE is specifically designed for people aged 60 and older and specializes in questions about pensions and retirement-related topics. AARP also runs free tax clinics throughout the country each tax season. Find a VITA or TCE location at IRS.gov.
State Property Tax Exemptions for Seniors
Property taxes often go up as home values increase, which impacts your budget if you’re a homeowner. Many states offer a property tax exemption to seniors aged 65 and above, which could translate into substantial savings each year. Eligibility rules and exemption amounts vary widely by state and sometimes by county. Contact your local tax assessor’s office directly and ask whether a senior exemption, freeze, or circuit breaker program exists in your area – many homeowners never apply simply because they never ask.
Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers for Seniors
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development runs the Housing Choice Voucher program, which helps very low-income seniors pay for safe private-market rental housing. Waitlists can be long, but many local Public Housing Authorities operate senior-priority waiting lists. Submit an application to your local PHA as early as possible, even if you don’t currently need help – your situation may change.
Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly
This HUD-funded program provides low-income seniors aged 62 and older with affordable rental units that include access to supportive services. Programs like Section 202 housing deliver essential support for daily living expenses. Residents typically pay no more than 30% of their monthly income in rent. Search for Section 202 properties through the HUD Resource Locator.
The America the Beautiful Senior Pass
The America the Beautiful Senior Pass costs $20 annually or $80 for a lifetime pass, granting access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites. That includes national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, and recreation areas. The lifetime pass pays for itself in two or three visits to parks that normally charge $20 to $35 per vehicle. Purchase it at any federal recreation site or online through USGS.
Amtrak Senior Rail Discounts
Amtrak gives travelers aged 62 and older a 10% discount on the lowest available rail fares. The discount applies on most routes. Book directly through Amtrak.com and use the senior fare option at checkout. This discount stacks with AAA membership discounts in some cases, so ask before finalizing any booking.
Airline Senior Fares
Airlines, including American, Delta, and United, provide fare reductions ranging from 5% to 50% off for travelers aged 65 and older. These fares are not always shown on booking websites – call the airline’s reservation line directly and ask for senior pricing. Availability varies by route and season, but the savings can be significant on longer domestic and international routes.
Kohl’s Senior Discount Day
Kohl’s offers 15% off on Wednesdays in-store for shoppers aged 60 and older. This is a standing weekly discount, not a limited promotion. Bring a valid photo ID and ask the cashier to apply your senior discount before your transaction is processed. Combine it with Kohl’s Cash and loyalty rewards for additional savings. This is a retiree discount you might be missing each year if you shop on other days.
Walgreens Senior Discount Day
Walgreens offers 20% off on the first Tuesday of each month for shoppers aged 55 and older. The discount applies to regular-priced items. Stock up on vitamins, personal care products, and over-the-counter medications on that day each month. Many Walgreens locations don’t advertise this prominently at the register – ask the staff directly.
Marriott Hotels Senior Rate
Marriott Hotels offers a 15% off senior rate for guests aged 62 and older. Book directly through Marriott.com and select the senior rate during your search. This applies across most of the Marriott brand family. Third-party booking sites typically don’t apply the senior rate, so always book direct or by phone for this discount.
Car Rental Senior Discounts
Major car rental companies like Avis, Budget, and Hertz offer senior discounts of between 10% and 35% off base rates. You must be 62 or older in most cases, and eligibility can vary by location and membership. Call ahead or check the loyalty program section of each company’s website to confirm current senior rates before booking.
The Older Americans Act Free Home Services
The Older Americans Act funds free homemaking services for those needing help with daily tasks. These services include meal preparation, light housekeeping, personal care assistance, and transportation. Eligibility is based on age (60 and older) and need, not income alone. Contact the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 to find services near you.
Meals on Wheels and Home-Delivered Meals
Meals on Wheels is a nationwide service that delivers food to seniors. The specific services your local Meals on Wheels partner offers will differ based on where you live. Many member programs make meals available on an income-based sliding scale for those who don’t have many resources. No senior should pay full restaurant prices for daily meals while this program exists. Find your local provider at mealsonwheelsamerica.org.
The Weatherization Assistance Program
This U.S. Department of Energy program pays to insulate homes, seal air leaks, upgrade heating systems, and make other energy-saving improvements for low-income households – including seniors. The average weatherization investment per household is over $5,000, and the homeowner pays nothing. Apply through your state energy office or local community action agency. Find your local agency at energy.gov.
Free or Low-Cost Internet Through the Affordable Connectivity Program Replacement Programs
While the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in 2024, many internet service providers have launched their own low-income plans for seniors. Comcast’s Internet Essentials, for example, offers low-cost broadband to qualifying households. Many states have also established their own broadband subsidy programs. Contact your local state broadband office or check your provider’s website for a senior or low-income rate – and always ask if a government benefit qualifies you for a discount.
AARP Membership Discounts
AARP membership is open to anyone aged 50 or older and costs as little as $16 per year. AARP offers a host of resources for seniors, including free tax-filing services every tax season. Beyond taxes, AARP membership unlocks discounts on hotels, rental cars, restaurants, insurance, and prescriptions through its nationwide network of partners. The annual savings potential for an active member far exceeds the membership cost. Sign up at aarp.org.
Veterans Benefits: Aid and Attendance
Veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily living – such as bathing, dressing, or eating – may qualify for the VA’s Aid and Attendance benefit, a monthly cash payment on top of regular VA pension benefits. This is one of the most commonly overlooked federal benefits for people over 65. In 2025, the maximum Aid and Attendance benefit is over $2,700 per month for a veteran with a sick spouse. Apply through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The NCOA BenefitsCheckUp Tool
BenefitsCheckUp is a free tool from the National Council on Aging that allows older adults and caregivers to browse more than 2,000 public and private benefits programs available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Users can also find out how to apply for benefits – and even get help with the application process. It was launched in 2001 specifically to address the billions of dollars in benefits left on the table each year because older adults simply don’t know about them or how to apply. Visit BenefitsCheckUp.org to see a personalized list of programs you may qualify for based on your ZIP code, age, and income. The tool is free and confidential – no registration required.
What Does the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Actually Offer Retirees?
The CFPB’s retirement resources hub is not just a list of tips. It includes an interactive Social Security claiming tool, plain-language guides on reverse mortgages, pension decisions, and managing debt in retirement. The CFPB is a U.S. government agency that makes sure banks, lenders, and other financial companies treat you fairly. For retirees dealing with billing disputes, predatory loan terms, or confusing financial products, the CFPB also takes consumer complaints at no cost.
The CFPB’s Money Smart for Older Adults is a volunteer-led curriculum and tool designed to help older adults, family caregivers, and others prevent, recognize, and report financial exploitation. Millions of dollars are lost each year to elder financial fraud. The CFPB’s resources on this topic are free, practical, and updated regularly. Use them not just to claim benefits – but to protect the ones you already have.
How Can Retirees Save Money on Everyday Expenses?
Start by asking. Many retailers and service providers don’t announce their special discounts and perks for adults aged 55 and over. This includes independent and locally owned shops. If you’re at a restaurant or grocery store, a movie theater, or an auto repair shop, it’s well worth asking for the “senior rate” or “senior discount.” The worst that can happen is the answer is no.
Beyond asking, the key is to audit your current spending against available programs. Every year, billions of available dollars in U.S. benefits programs go unclaimed because older adults are unsure whether they are eligible and, if so, how to apply. Run your information through the NCOA’s BenefitsCheckUp tool at least once a year, because income thresholds and program rules change annually. What you didn’t qualify for last year, you might qualify for this year.
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What to Do Now
The 30 items on this list represent a combined savings opportunity that, for many households, runs into thousands of dollars per year. Not every item will apply to every reader – but if even three or four of these programs are relevant to your situation, the financial impact could be meaningful. The combined total in missed benefits across major programs amounts to nearly $30 billion left on the table each year. That number belongs to real people. It may include you.
Start with the programs that match your biggest current expense. If prescriptions are your main concern, apply for Medicare Extra Help first. If food costs are squeezing your budget, check SNAP eligibility before the end of the month. If you’re a homeowner, call your county assessor about property tax exemptions this week. Each of these actions takes less than an hour. The return on that hour can last for years. The hidden government benefits for people over 65 listed above are not charity – they are programs built for you, paid for by decades of work, and sitting uncollected. Claim what is yours.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Program eligibility and benefit amounts are subject to change. Consult a licensed financial advisor or visit the relevant government agency directly to confirm current program details and your personal eligibility.
A.I. Disclaimer: This article was created with AI assistance and edited by a human for accuracy and clarity.
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