Money You May Have Forgotten to Claim: 34 Benefits and Savings for People 60+
by Luis Mojica, Editor - November 2, 2026 | Advertiser Disclosure
Free programs link to official sites. Some companies on the list pay us when you request a quote or buy, at no extra cost to you.
1. Millions of Americans Have Unclaimed Money Waiting. Here's How to Check for Free
Every state holds money that belongs to people who never claimed it: old bank or savings accounts, utility deposits, insurance payouts, refunds and uncashed checks. Old U.S. savings bonds that stopped earning interest can also be traced through your state's unclaimed property office.
Unclaimed.org is run by the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators, the group of state officials who manage this money. It links to every state's free, official search.
Why search now?
• It's free: official state searches never charge a fee.
• It takes a minute: you search by name, and can also search for parents or relatives who have passed away.
• Search every state you've lived in: money is held by the state where it was last on record.
• Never pay a "finder": anyone asking for a fee to find your money is charging for something you can do free.
2. Your State May Pay Your Medicare Premium. Many People Who Qualify Never Apply
Medicare Savings Programs are run by each state and help people with limited income and savings pay their Medicare costs. Depending on the program, your state may pay your Part B premium, and in some cases your deductibles, coinsurance and copays.
Many people who qualify never apply, often because they assume their income is too high. The limits are set by each state and some states are more generous than the federal minimum.
Why check if you qualify?
• It can pay your Part B premium: that's money back in your monthly Social Security check.
• It can open other help: qualifying for a Medicare Savings Program also qualifies you for Extra Help with drug costs (item 6).
• State rules vary: some states have higher income limits than you might expect.
• Applying is free: you apply through your state's Medicaid office.
3. Home Insurance Went Up Again? Homeowners Are Comparing Quotes in Minutes
Home insurance premiums have gone up in many states over the last few years, and many people simply renew every year without checking whether another company would charge less for the same coverage.
This free comparison service asks a few questions about your home and shows quotes from several insurers, so you can see if you're overpaying.
Why compare home insurance now?
• Prices change every year: the company that was cheapest a few years ago may not be now.
• Same coverage, different price: insurers price the same house differently.
• It takes a few minutes: answer some questions about your home and see your options.
• No obligation: you only switch if you find a better deal.
Do you qualify? Check these 2 simple requirements:
✔ You own a home
✔ You haven't compared prices in the last year
4. Medicare Open Enrollment Ends December 7: Why Comparing Plans Can Lower Your Costs
Every year from October 15 to December 7, people with Medicare can switch their drug plan or Medicare Advantage plan for the coming year. Plans change their premiums, copays and the drugs they cover every year, so the plan that was right last year may cost more now.
Medicare's official Plan Finder lets you enter your prescriptions and pharmacies and compare the total yearly cost of each plan in your area. It's free.
Why compare your plan this year?
• Plans change every January: premiums, deductibles and covered drugs can all change.
• Your medicines matter most: Plan Finder estimates your yearly cost with your exact prescriptions.
• The window is short: changes for next year must be made by December 7.
• Free help is available: see item 31 for free, unbiased Medicare counselors in your state.
5. Homeowners 60+ Are Getting Walk-In Showers and Safer Bathrooms Using This Website
Many bathroom falls happen getting in or out of a tub. A walk-in shower with a low threshold, a fold-down seat and grab bars lets you shower without stepping over a high edge.
This service matches you with local remodelers in your area. You enter your zip code, answer a few questions about your bathroom, and get quotes you can compare before deciding anything.
Why update your bathroom now?
• Safer every day: no high tub wall to climb over, and grab bars where you need them.
• Easier to stay in your home: many people make this change so they can keep living independently.
• Compare first: you see quotes from more than one local pro before you choose.
• No commitment: requesting quotes is free and doesn't oblige you to buy.
Do you qualify? Check these 3 simple requirements:
✔ You own your home
✔ You'd like a safer or more comfortable bathroom
✔ You live in an area local pros serve (enter your zip code to check)
6. Social Security's "Extra Help" Can Lower Prescription Costs for People on Medicare
Extra Help is a Social Security program that lowers the cost of Medicare prescription drug coverage for people with limited income and resources. It can reduce your drug plan's premium, deductible and copays.
If you get Medicaid, SSI or a Medicare Savings Program, you automatically qualify. Others can apply online with Social Security.
Why apply?
• Lower drug costs: it helps with Part D premiums, deductibles and copays.
• Automatic for some: Medicaid, SSI and Medicare Savings Program members already qualify.
• Free to apply: apply online, by phone or at a Social Security office.
• More chances to switch: people with Extra Help get extra opportunities to change drug plans during the year.
7. Seniors With Drafty Windows Are Getting Replacement Quotes Using This Service
Old or drafty windows let heat out in winter and cool air out in summer. Newer windows seal better, which can make rooms more comfortable and help with energy bills.
This service connects you with local window installers. Enter your zip code, tell them about your windows, and compare quotes with no obligation.
Why replace old windows?
• More comfortable rooms: fewer drafts and cold spots near the glass.
• Energy savings: better seals and glass keep the heat or cool air inside.
• Less noise: newer double-pane windows also block more outside sound.
• Compare quotes first: see what local installers charge before you decide.
Do you qualify? Check these 3 simple requirements:
✔ You own your home
✔ Your windows are old or drafty
✔ You live in an area local installers serve (enter your zip code to check)
8. Help With Winter Heating Bills: How the Federal LIHEAP Program Works
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federal program that helps households with limited income pay heating and cooling bills. It can also help in an energy emergency, like a shut-off notice.
Each state runs its own program, so income limits, amounts and application dates vary. Many states open winter applications in the fall.
Why apply early?
• Funds are limited: many states help households in the order they apply.
• Help with shut-offs: LIHEAP can help in an energy crisis.
• Older adults are a priority: many programs give priority to households with seniors.
• Free to apply: apply through your state or local LIHEAP office.
9. Homeowners Are Comparing Local Roofing and Heating Quotes Before Winter
Fall is when many homeowners get their roof, heating and cooling checked before winter. A small repair now can prevent a bigger, more expensive problem later.
This marketplace matches homeowners with local contractors for roofing, heating and cooling (HVAC), solar, windows and flooring, so you can compare quotes before you hire anyone.
Why get quotes before winter?
• Catch problems early: leaks and old furnaces are cheaper to fix before they fail.
• Compare prices: different contractors can quote very different amounts for the same job.
• Local pros: you're matched with contractors who serve your area.
• No obligation: getting quotes doesn't commit you to anything.
Do you qualify? Check these 3 simple requirements:
✔ You own your home
✔ You have a repair or upgrade in mind
✔ Local contractors serve your area (enter your zip code to check)
10. Homeowners Are Using a Home Equity Line of Credit Instead of High-Interest Cards
A home equity line of credit (HELOC) lets homeowners borrow against the value they've built up in their home. Because the loan is secured by your house, the interest rate is often lower than on credit cards, which is why some people use one to pay off high-interest balances or pay for repairs.
This service connects you with lenders so you can compare HELOC options. Approval and rates depend on the lender, your credit and your home's value.
What to know before you apply
• Lower rates than most cards: HELOC rates are often lower than credit card rates.
• Your home is the collateral: missing payments puts your home at risk, so borrow carefully.
• Rates are usually variable: your payment can change over time.
• Compare offers: terms and fees vary from lender to lender.
Do you qualify? Check these 3 simple requirements:
✔ You own your home
✔ Your home is worth more than you owe on it
✔ Approval and rates depend on the lender
11. 1-800 CONTACTS Is Offering 25% Off a First Order of Contact Lenses
★★★★★ 4.5 on Trustpilot (1,000+ reviews)
1-800 CONTACTS ships the exact contact lenses your eye doctor prescribed, straight to your door. New customers get 25% off their first order.
They accept vision insurance and you can pay with FSA or HSA cards, so you may be able to use benefits you already have.
Why order online?
• Same lenses, delivered: the exact brand and prescription your doctor wrote.
• New-customer discount: 25% off the first order.
• Use your benefits: vision insurance, FSA and HSA cards are accepted.
• No trip to the store: reorders arrive at home.
12. Over 50? Prescription Glasses Online With Free Single-Vision Lenses
The Framery sells prescription glasses online. Single-vision lenses, shipping and returns are included in the price of the frames, and every pair comes with a 60-day guarantee.
They accept vision insurance and FSA or HSA cards, so you may be able to use benefits you already have.
Why buy glasses online?
• Lenses included: single-vision lenses come with the frames.
• 60-day guarantee: return them if they don't work for you.
• Use your benefits: vision insurance, FSA and HSA cards accepted.
• Shop from home: browse frames without a trip to the store.
13. Homeowners Are Keeping a Quiet Solar Backup for Power Outages
Power outages from storms are a real worry for many households, especially for people who rely on a fridge for medicines or a medical device. A solar generator stores electricity in a battery so you can keep lights, phones and small appliances running.
Unlike gas generators, solar generators make no fumes, so they can be used indoors, and they can be recharged from solar panels or a wall outlet.
Why people keep one at home
• No fumes: safe to use indoors, unlike gas generators.
• Quiet: no engine noise during an outage.
• Rechargeable: from a wall outlet or solar panels.
• Size matters: compare how many hours each model can run the things you need.
14. Rural Homeowners Are Getting Wireless Internet Without Cable
Many rural homes still don't have good cable or fiber internet. Home Fi provides wireless high-speed internet using cellular networks, made for homes that traditional providers don't reach well.
Service is contract-free, so you can try it without a long-term commitment.
Why consider wireless internet?
• Works where cable doesn't: it uses cellular networks instead of cable lines.
• No long-term contract: cancel when it's not working for you.
• Good for video calls and streaming: stay in touch with family.
• Check your area: coverage depends on the networks near your home.
15. Awake at 3 AM Again? Meet the "Cherry Trick" Sleep Drop
Waking up in the middle of the night gets more common with age, and many people would rather try something gentle before reaching for stronger sleep aids. YU SLEEP is a nighttime drop made with tart cherry extract, L-theanine, magnesium and lemon balm, with a low 0.9 mg dose of melatonin per serving, according to the maker.
Our short review explains what's inside, who it may not be right for, and links to the maker's official page with prices. The maker offers a 60-day money-back guarantee.
What to know first
• Low-dose melatonin: 0.9 mg per serving, lower than many drugstore tablets.
• Ask your doctor first: especially if you take medication for sleep, mood or blood thinning.
• 60-day guarantee: from the maker, on every package.
• Not a medicine: these statements have not been evaluated by the FDA; it's not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
16. Pay Your Card in Full Every Month? A Cash-Back Card Could Pay You Back
★★★★★ 4.5 on Trustpilot (450+ reviews)
If you pay your credit card in full every month, a cash-back card gives you back a small part of what you already spend on groceries, gas and bills.
SuperMoney compares credit card offers side by side so you can see rewards, fees and rates in one place. Approval depends on your credit.
What to know first
• Best if you pay in full: interest can wipe out the rewards if you carry a balance.
• Compare fees: some cards charge an annual fee, many don't.
• Match your spending: some cards pay more on groceries or gas.
• Approval depends on credit: see the requirements before you apply.
17. At 62, an $80 Pass Gets You Into National Parks for Life
U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older can buy a lifetime Senior Pass for $80, or an annual pass for $20. It covers entrance fees at national parks and other federal recreation sites.
The pass covers the pass holder and the people in their car at sites that charge per vehicle, and it can give discounts on some camping and other fees.
Why get the pass?
• One payment for life: $80, once.
• Covers your car: at per-vehicle sites, everyone in the car gets in.
• Thousands of sites: national parks, forests, wildlife refuges and more.
• Buy online or in person: at a park or through the official site.
18. Families Are Keeping a 3-Month Food Supply for Storm Season
Many families keep extra food at home for storm season, power outages or simply busy weeks. A 3-month emergency food kit stores for years and needs only water to prepare.
Keeping a backup supply means one less trip to crowded stores when the weather turns bad.
Why keep a backup supply?
• Long shelf life: stores for years in a pantry or closet.
• Easy to prepare: just add water.
• Storm season: avoid rushing to the store before a storm.
• Peace of mind: food on hand if you can't get out.
19. Retirees Are Booking Member-Only Hotel Prices for Their Next Trip
★★★★ 4.3 on Trustpilot (50,000+ reviews)
Super.com offers member-only prices on hotels across the U.S. and around the world, and lets you compare stays before you book.
Always compare the final price, including taxes and fees, with what you'd normally pay, and read the cancellation rules before booking.
Tips before you book
• Compare the total price: taxes and fees included.
• Check cancellation rules: they vary by hotel and rate.
• Book early for holidays: prices rise as dates fill up.
• Keep your confirmation: and call the hotel if anything looks wrong.
20. SNAP Has Special Rules for People 60+ That Many Don't Know About
SNAP (food assistance) has special rules for households with someone 60 or older. One of the most important: out-of-pocket medical costs above $35 a month, like prescriptions, copays and insurance premiums, can be deducted when your eligibility and benefit are figured.
That deduction can make the difference between qualifying or not, and can raise the amount you get. Many older adults don't know it exists.
Why check the senior rules?
• Medical costs count: expenses above $35 a month can be deducted.
• Different limits: households with older members are figured differently.
• Your state may make it easier: some states use a standard medical deduction.
• Apply through your state: each state runs its own SNAP office.
21. Tax Question? Retirees Are Asking Tax Experts Online
★★★★★ 4.8 on Trustpilot (4,000+ reviews)
Tax questions come up all year: about Social Security, required withdrawals from retirement accounts, selling a home, or a letter from the IRS. Tax Expert Now connects you with tax experts who answer questions online.
It's a paid service, so check the price before you start.
When it helps
• IRS letters: understand what a notice means and what to do.
• Retirement income: questions about Social Security and account withdrawals.
• Big decisions: selling a home or downsizing.
• Any time of year: not just during tax season.
22. The IRS Offers Free Tax Return Help for People 60 and Older
The IRS Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program offers free tax help to people 60 and older. Trained volunteers, many through AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, prepare basic tax returns for free.
Most sites operate during tax season, from late January to April, and some require an appointment.
Why use free tax help?
• It's free: no fee for basic returns.
• Trained volunteers: certified by the IRS.
• Focused on retirees: questions about pensions and Social Security are common.
• Find a site near you: through the IRS or AARP Tax-Aide.
23. Retirees Are Asking Finance Experts About Social Security and Savings Online
★★★★★ 4.5 on Trustpilot (130,000+ reviews)
Questions about when to claim Social Security, how much to keep in savings, or how to handle old debts are easier with an expert. JustAnswer connects you with finance experts who answer questions online.
It's a paid service: check the price before you start.
When it helps
• Social Security timing: when to claim can change your monthly check.
• Savings and withdrawals: how to make retirement money last.
• Debt questions: what to pay first.
• Answers online: no appointment needed.
24. Questions About a Will or a Contract? Seniors Are Asking Lawyers Online
★★★★★ 4.8 on Trustpilot (11,000+ reviews)
Questions about a will, a lease, a contract or a dispute with a business can be stressful. Ask a Lawyer On Call connects you with lawyers who answer legal questions online, without an office visit.
It's a paid service: check the price before you start.
When it helps
• Wills and estates: understand your options.
• Contracts and leases: know what you're signing.
• Disputes: with a landlord, a contractor or a company.
• From home: no office visit needed.
25. Lifeline: The Federal Program That Lowers Phone and Internet Bills
Lifeline is a federal program that gives eligible households a monthly discount on phone or internet service. You may qualify if you get Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance or a Veterans Pension, or if your income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines.
You apply through the National Verifier, and you can use the discount with a participating phone or internet company.
Why apply?
• Lower monthly bills: a discount on phone or internet service.
• Many ways to qualify: through benefits you may already get.
• One per household: the discount applies to one service per household.
• Apply online: through the official National Verifier.
26. Before Paying for a Repair, Homeowners Are Asking Experts Online
Before paying for a repair, it helps to know what the job really needs. HomeFix.Expert connects you with experts who answer home repair and maintenance questions online.
It's a paid service: check the price before you start.
When it helps
• Second opinion: before you agree to an expensive repair.
• Do it yourself or hire: know which jobs are simple.
• Leaks, heating, appliances: common home problems.
• Answers online: no house call needed.
27. Car Trouble? Drivers Are Asking Mechanics Online Before Paying the Shop
★★★★★ 4.5 on Trustpilot (130,000+ reviews)Car repair bills can be confusing. JustAnswer connects you with mechanics who answer questions online, so you understand a repair before you agree to it.
It's a paid service: check the price before you start.
When it helps
• Before you pay the shop: understand what the repair is.
• Warning lights: know whether it's urgent.
• Second opinion: on a big estimate.
• Answers online: describe the problem from home.
28. Facing a Big Dental Bill? Seniors Are Getting a Second Opinion Online
★★★★★ 4.5 on Trustpilot (130,000+ reviews)
A big dental treatment plan can be expensive and hard to understand. JustAnswer connects you with dentists who answer questions online, for example about the options in a treatment plan.
It's a paid service: check the price before you start.
When it helps
• Second opinion: on an expensive treatment plan.
• Understand your options: implants, bridges, dentures and more.
• Questions about pain or sensitivity: and whether it's urgent.
• Answers online: no appointment needed.
29. You Can Check Your Credit Reports for Free Every Week. Here's the Official Site
AnnualCreditReport.com is the only official website for free credit reports from the three bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. You can now check your reports for free every week.
Checking your reports helps you spot mistakes and signs of identity theft early, before they cause problems.
Why check your reports?
• It's free: every week, from all three bureaus.
• Spot fraud early: accounts you didn't open are a warning sign.
• Fix mistakes: errors can be disputed with the bureau.
• Use the official site: avoid look-alike sites that charge.
30. Free Home Energy Upgrades: Who Qualifies for the Weatherization Program
The federal Weatherization Assistance Program pays for energy improvements in the homes of households with limited income, like insulation, air sealing and heating system repairs. It gives priority to older adults, people with disabilities and families with children.
Each state runs its own program through local agencies.
Why apply?
• The work is free: for households that qualify.
• Lower energy bills: a better-sealed home uses less energy.
• More comfortable: fewer drafts in winter.
• Older adults are a priority: in the program's rules.
31. Free, Unbiased Medicare Help Is Available in Every State
Every state has a State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) with trained counselors who help people with Medicare understand their options and compare plans, for free.
SHIP counselors don't sell insurance and don't earn commissions, so their advice is unbiased.
Why talk to a SHIP counselor?
• Free and unbiased: they don't sell anything.
• Plan comparisons: help choosing a drug or Advantage plan.
• Help with costs: they can check if you qualify for programs like Extra Help.
• By phone or in person: in every state.
32. Most States Offer Property Tax Breaks for Older Homeowners
Most states and many counties offer property tax breaks for older homeowners: exemptions that lower your home's taxable value, credits, or freezes that stop your assessment from going up.
The rules, income limits and the age (often 62 or 65) depend on where you live. Many people miss out because the break isn't applied automatically.
How to find out
• Call your county assessor: ask about senior exemptions and freezes.
• Ask about deadlines: many require an application by a set date.
• Check every year: some programs need you to re-apply.
• Ask about other breaks: for veterans or people with disabilities.
33. How to Stop Most Sales Calls for Free
The National Do Not Call Registry is free and lets you stop most telemarketing calls. After your number is on the list for 31 days, most sales calls should stop.
Political calls, charities, surveys and debt collectors can still call. Never pay anyone to register you: it's free on the official site.
Why register?
• It's free: register online or by phone.
• Fewer sales calls: after 31 days.
• Report violators: the site lets you report unwanted calls.
• Watch for scams: a caller asking for money or personal details is a red flag.
34. This Free Tool From a Nonprofit Checks Thousands of Benefit Programs at Once
BenefitsCheckUp is a free tool from the National Council on Aging, a nonprofit. It asks a few anonymous questions and lists the federal, state and local programs you may qualify for, from help with food and utilities to prescriptions and health care.
It doesn't ask for your name or Social Security number.
Why use it?
• Free and anonymous: no name or Social Security number needed.
• Thousands of programs: federal, state and local.
• One place: instead of searching program by program.
• Next steps: it shows how to apply for each program.
Get the free Senior Savings Newsletter
From Candid Wellness Reviews: new money savers and benefit changes for people 60+, in plain English. Free.
We'll send a confirmation email first. Then you'll get a welcome email and occasional updates from Candid Wellness Reviews; some mention companies that pay us. Unsubscribe anytime. Privacy Policy.
Items marked "Sponsored" are paid offers; we may earn a fee if you request a quote or buy. Free programs link to official sites. Not financial, legal or insurance advice. Program rules, income limits and dates come from the official sites linked above and can change; check the official site before you apply. Companies set their own terms, prices and eligibility.