Maryland Senior Emergency Assistance Fund
One-time emergency financial assistance for older Marylanders facing urgent need.
The Maryland Senior Emergency Assistance Fund is a statewide nonprofit that provides limited, one-time financial support to eligible seniors experiencing a critical short-term hardship. Our goal is to help older adults remain safe, stable, and connected in their communities.
What We Do
We provide one-time emergency financial assistance for eligible seniors who are experiencing a critical, time-sensitive need. Examples may include:
Past-due utility bills that risk shutoff
Rent or housing-related costs to prevent loss of housing
Essential medical or mobility-related expenses not otherwise covered
Other urgent basic needs that, without support, could lead to significant harm
Funding is limited and not all requests can be approved. When we cannot assist directly, we may share information about other potential resources.
Who Is Eligible
Age
Be age 60 or older at the time of application.
Residency
Be a current resident of Maryland with proof of address.
Financial Hardship
Be experiencing a documented, time-sensitive financial hardship that affects safety, housing, utilities, or basic stability.
Resources
Have no reasonable alternative resources available to address the immediate need.
To be considered for assistance, applicants generally must meet the following criteria:
Meeting the criteria does not guarantee approval. All applications are reviewed based on available funding, documentation, and the urgency of the situation.
How We Make Decisions
The Maryland Senior Emergency Assistance Fund uses a structured and equitable review process to determine eligibility for emergency assistance. Applications are evaluated based on documented financial hardship, urgency of need, and availability of funds. Assistance is not guaranteed, and all requests are reviewed consistently and fairly in accordance with Board-approved policies.
01
Review the eligibility guidelines above.
Most applicants apply with the support of a case manager, social worker, or other professional. Individuals may also apply directly if they have access to the required information.
02
Gather basic information about the situation (bills, notices, or other documentation).
How to Apply
03
Complete the application form with as much detail as possible.
04
Submit the form and required documents for review.
Who We Are
Maryland Senior Emergency Assistance Fund is an independent, statewide nonprofit organization serving adults age 60 and older across Maryland. We work in collaboration with local partners, community agencies, and public systems to address urgent financial needs that threaten a senior’s safety or stability.
Our approach is practical, focused, and respectful. We provide modest, one-time assistance to help bridge a short-term gap—not ongoing support.
Additional Resources
Individuals who do not meet program eligibility criteria may wish to explore other community-based resources. Assistance may be available through local agencies, community organizations, or statewide referral services such as Maryland 211.