If you’re on a fixed income, it’s common to feel squeezed by rising utilities, food, rent, water, gas, and phone costs. We hear this every day. As our video explains, your Patient Advocate will ask about your monthly income (for example, SSI or a pension) and then search federal, state, county, and city programs that can help with utilities, rent, cell phone service, food, and medication costs. We verify eligibility, help you collect the right documents, stay on the phone with you when needed, and submit applications correctly so the process isn’t overwhelming.
“No one should have to choose between paying the electric bill and buying groceries, or between groceries and medications.” That’s why your Advocate reviews local and national options and works with you until your application is submitted and tracked.
The most common programs that may lower your monthly expenses
Help with home energy (electric, gas, cooling)
What it is: The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible households with heating and cooling bills and may offer crisis assistance.
What to expect: Proof of income, household size, utility account information, and sometimes a recent bill.
Tip: Funds can run low seasonally. Apply early in the year or when your state opens its application window.
Help paying for food
SNAP (food benefits): Households with older adults (60+) or people with disabilities have special eligibility rules that may let you qualify even if your income or savings are slightly higher than standard limits.
Other senior food supports: Depending on your state and area, you may access Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) monthly food packages or Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program vouchers.
Help lowering Medicare and drug costs
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs): Your state Medicaid office can help pay Part A and/or Part B premiums and, in some cases, deductibles and coinsurance (QMB, SLMB, QI categories).
Extra Help (Part D): Lowers prescription drug premiums, deductibles, and co-pays.
Plan comparisons: The right Part D or Medicare Advantage plan can substantially cut medication costs. Your Advocate can compare plans based on your medicines and preferred pharmacies.
Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8): Administered by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs). Vouchers cap your rent at a percentage of income with HUD paying the remainder directly to the landlord. Waitlists are common; your Advocate can help you find PHAs, understand preferences, and apply when lists open.
Help with phone or internet
Lifeline: A federal program that provides a monthly discount on qualifying phone or internet services. If you receive SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or your income is within certain limits, you may qualify.
Note: Availability of additional broadband discounts can change over time. Your Advocate will confirm current programs in your area.
What your Patient Advocate will do (step by step)
1) Screen for the right programs
Review your monthly income (SSI, pension, other benefits) and household situation.
Identify federal, state, county, and city resources for utilities, rent, cell phones, food, and medications.
2) Verify eligibility and gather documents
Explain income/resource rules in plain language.
Create a simple checklist (ID, income statements, utility bills, lease, medical bills, benefit letters).
Stay on the phone with you while calling agencies or logging into portals.
3) Complete and submit applications
Fill out forms accurately, upload documents, and submit by the correct deadline.
Track application status, respond to requests for more information, and keep you updated.
4) Coordinate across programs
Align benefits (for example, MSPs + Extra Help + SNAP) to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
If you get a denial, we’ll review the letter, help you appeal, and coordinate supporting documents from your clinicians and pharmacies.
Apply to LIHEAP as soon as your state’s window opens.
If you’re eligible for Lifeline, ask your current phone or internet provider if they participate.
Food and housing
If you’re 60+ or have a disability, check SNAP special rules and local senior nutrition programs.
For rent, sign up for PHA alerts or newsletters so you know when voucher waitlists open.
If you were denied or billed more than expected
Read the letter carefully and note any deadline for appeals.
Call your state SHIP for free, unbiased help with Medicare costs and appeals.
If it’s a hospital bill and you have low income, ask about Financial Assistance (charity care) and request the plain-language summary and application—nonprofit hospitals must have a policy and screen patients before extraordinary collection actions.
Your Advocate can: review the denial, gather supporting letters, help file the appeal, and track every deadline until you get a decision.
How Understood Care fits into your bigger financial picture
We coordinate applications across programs so you don’t miss savings.
We help you prepare once (documents, income info) and reuse across forms.
We stay on the phone with agencies, clinics, and plans to reduce back-and-forth.
We keep things organized so you can focus on your health.
Your state runs LIHEAP locally. You’ll typically complete an application and submit proof of income, household size, and a recent utility bill. Your Advocate will locate the right local office, gather documents with you, and help you submit the form.
What are the special SNAP rules for seniors and people with disabilities?
Households with adults 60+ or people with disabilities may have different income and resource rules and can claim excess shelter/medical deductions. This can make it easier to qualify. We’ll review your situation and help you apply.
What’s the difference between Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help?
Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) can pay Part A/B premiums and sometimes deductibles/coinsurance. Extra Help reduces Part D drug costs (premiums, deductibles, co-pays). Many people qualify for both, which can significantly lower monthly expenses.
Does Lifeline really lower my phone or internet bill?
Yes—eligible households receive a monthly discount on phone or internet service through participating providers. If you’re on SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or meet the income threshold, you may qualify.
Are there programs for rent assistance?
Yes. Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help eligible households keep rent affordable. There are often waitlists, and the process varies by local PHA. Your Advocate will help you understand preferences, submit applications, and track openings.
Who can help me compare Medicare plans, appeal a denial, or read my Medicare notice?
Your state SHIP provides free, unbiased counseling for Medicare costs, plan comparisons, and appeals. Your Advocate can also coordinate, gather paperwork, and stay on the phone with you during calls.
I feel overwhelmed—where do I start?
Call (646) 904-4027 or chat with an Advocate. We’ll review your income and expenses, identify the best mix of programs (utilities, food, rent, phone, medications), and help you apply from start to finish.
IRS 501(r): Financial Assistance Policy requirements and billing/collections rules for nonprofit hospitals. understoodcare.com
Find a Community Health Center (sliding fee scale), Health Resources & Services Administration. understoodcare.com
SSI basic eligibility, Social Security Administration (web page and 2025 fact sheet). Social Security+1
This content is educational and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized care.
Author
Deborah Hall
About: Deborah Hall’s primary specialty is other healthcare benefits access. She helps people apply for coverage, clears questions, and connects them to programs fast.
Nutrition and food security
Housing
Community and Peer Support
Health literacy
Provider Access
Home safety access
Transportation
Medication access
DME access
Other healthcare benefits access
Other healthcare navigation
Support starts now
Chat with an Advocate Today
We know navigating Medicare and care needs can feel lonely, but you don’t have to do it alone.
Our caring team takes care of the paperwork, claims, and home care so you’re always supported.
