When Social Security Isn't Enough: How to Close the Gap
Key Points
If your budget falls short, there's no reason to go it alone.
There are many resources available to help seniors. It all depends on what you need.
If you're unsure where to start, organizations like 2-1-1, Eldercare Locators, and the Community Action Agency can help.
- The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook ›
According to The Senior Citizens League, roughly 24.6 million seniors, or 44% of the country's retirement-age population, depend on Social Security for 100% of their income. Whether you're among those living solely on Social Security benefits or looking for ways to make your money stretch further over your golden years, these resources may help.
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Food
Food is a basic need and can take up a large portion of your monthly income. Here's where to look for assistance.
SNAP
To be eligible for SNAP, your net income (the money left after taxes and deductions like Medicare premiums are subtracted from total earnings) cannot exceed $1,305 for a one-person household. For a two-person household, the 2026 net limit is $1,763. Fortunately, elderly applicants don't have to pass a gross income test, so deductions for healthcare expenses and housing may bring your income under the limit -- even if you earn much more.
Stackable senior food programs
There's no rule against stacking food programs to ensure you're receiving the food you need to remain healthy. Here are four programs that make stacking a little easier:
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Provides a monthly box of grocery staples.
- Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program: Provides low-income seniors with $50 in coupons to buy healthy foods, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey from participating markets and farm stands.
- Meals on Wheels: Delivers ready-to-eat meals to homebound seniors, often at low or no cost.
- Local food pantries: Most communities offer food pantries for those who need an extra boost.
Health coverage
Given that the average Social Security benefit in 2026 is $2,071, it's no surprise that healthcare expenses can derail even the best budget. Here are several options for assistance:
- Medicaid: Offers comprehensive health coverage for people with low income and limited resources.
- Medicare Savings Programs: Help low-income Medicare beneficiaries by paying Part B premiums and sometimes deductibles and co-pays.
- Medicare Extra Help: Reduces prescription drug premiums and out-of-pocket costs for those with limited income.
Housing assistance
Whether you own or rent, housing is another large expense. Here are some ideas for making it a little easier on your budget:
- Section 8 Housing: The Housing Choice Voucher Program subsidizes rent so you pay a more affordable share of your income toward housing.
- Public housing and senior apartment communities: These base your monthly rent on your income.
Many states and local governments also offer:
- Rental assistance and emergency eviction-prevention funds.
- Property tax relief for seniors and disabled homeowners.
- Home repair and weatherization programs to keep your home safe while reducing utility costs.
There are several ways to learn more about any of these programs:
- Contact your local aging agency or senior center.
- Check your state's housing and social services websites.
- Check online search tools like 2-1-1 or Eldercare Locators.
Utility assistance
Utilities are often hard to budget for. Here are two places to seek assistance:
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Can help with heating and cooling bills.
- Local utility-aid funds: These funds, often run by charities, can help you pay for overdue gas, electric, or water bills.
The easiest way to learn what's available in your area is to ask your utility company about local programs, log on to 2-1-1, or contact the Community Action Agency.
As you planned for retirement, you probably never pictured your budget falling short. Why not take advantage of the programs and services available to you and get back to enjoying life?
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