Seniors on Social Security
Paying for Senior Living
For seniors living on a low income, figuring out how to pay for Independent or Assisted Living can easily turn into a major source of stress if you don't know where to begin. However, you don't have to go through this alone. We are here to provide you with the guidance and support you need to make informed decisions about costs and payment options.
On this page, you will find information on government housing assistance programs available for seniors, the application process, download and print important documents, and learn about the application process.
We also encourage you to visit our Resources for Low-Income Seniors page for information on community-based support programs, including food and energy assistance.
Equal housing opportunity is afforded to all persons who meet HUD age restrictions of 62 or older (head or co-head of household) and who qualify under federal income standards.
Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS)
In Manor II Assisted Living, we accept both private pay and ALTCS benefits. ALTCS is the State of Arizona’s Medicaid program that provides long-term care services for individuals who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled and need ongoing skilled nursing services. However, program participants do not have to reside in a nursing home in order to receive benefits. Many ALTCS participants live in their own homes or an assisted living facility and receive the needed in-home services.
We work with all three ALTCS plan providers: United Health Care, Mercy Care, and Banner University Health Plans.
Applying for ALTCS benefits
The application process can take anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months.
If you or your loved one are searching for Assisted Living and think you might qualify for ALTCS assistance, we strongly encourage you to review the program requirements and complete a "Request for Application for ALTCS" as soon as possible.
Download & Print:
Subsidized Independent Living in Phoenix
At Christian Care Manors I and III, we provide subsidized Independent Living for seniors under HUD's Section 202 program.
The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Section 202 program, Supportive Housing for the Elderly, was designed to increase the supply of affordable housing with supportive services for seniors.
Admission Qualifications for HUD-subsidized Senior Housing
Download & Print
Key Differences between HUD & ALTCS
While many of the program requirements are the same for both HUD and ALTCS, there are a few key differences that can create confusion when applicants are applying for both programs.
These are the top three differences:
HUD and ALTCS each have their own age requirement to qualify for senior housing assistance and long-term care benefits.
HUD = 62 and older, ALTCS = 65 and older (assisted living for seniors)
HUD: Provides financial assistance for the senior’s dwelling. Residents typically pay 30% of their adjusted income for rent and utilities.
ALTCS: Provides financial assistance for the participant’s long-term care services, whether provided at home or in an ALTCS-approved assisted living or skilled nursing facility. ALTCS sets aside a certain amount each month for residents to use for incidentals, known as a ‘Personal Allowance’. In 2021, the amount set aside is $119.10/month.
HUD is a federal program, so applicants must be US citizens but do not need to be Arizona residents to apply for assistance in Arizona.
ALTCS is Arizona’s own Medicaid program (different from the national Medicaid program). Applicants must be Arizona residents to qualify. *Note: you can start the ALTCS application process before moving to AZ, but to finish the process and be qualified, you must be an Arizona resident.
Online Resources for Senior Housing Assistance
JacksonWhite, Attorney at Law's guide: ALTCS & Other Programs that Pay for Long-Term Care
The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Arizona Office
