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    Free Legal Aid

    Help is available. Most don't know where.

    National resources

    • Legal Services Corporation — lsc.gov. Find local LSC programs.
    • LawHelp.org — by state. Self-help + lawyer referrals.
    • Justice in Aging — justiceinaging.org. Senior-specific.
    • AARP Foundation Legal Counsel for Elderly — DC area.
    • Eldercare Locator — 1-800-677-1116. Refers to local legal help.
    • National Disability Rights Network — for disability cases.

    What they help with (FREE)

    • Wills + simple estate planning.
    • Power of Attorney + advance directives.
    • Medicaid + Medicare appeals.
    • Social Security disputes.
    • Landlord-tenant (eviction defense).
    • Elder abuse cases.
    • Consumer fraud + scams.
    • Veterans benefits.

    Income limits

    • Most LSC programs: 125% of federal poverty.
    • ~$18,800/yr individual, $25,400 couple.
    • Some go to 200% (~$30K/$40K).
    • Senior-specific often higher limits.
    • Don't assume you're too "rich" — apply.
    • Sliding-scale options too.

    Free for ALL seniors

    • SHIP — Medicare counseling. shiphelp.org.
    • SMP — Medicare fraud help. smpresource.org.
    • VA legal services — for veterans.
    • SSA local office — Social Security questions.
    • State Attorney General — consumer fraud.
    • Long-term Care Ombudsman — nursing home advocacy. ltcombudsman.org.

    Bar associations

    • Most state bars offer Senior Lawyer Service.
    • Free 30-min consults.
    • Reduced fees for follow-up.
    • Pro bono panels — free for income-eligible.
    • Lawyer Referral Services — call your state bar.

    Self-help

    • Court Forms Self-Help — most states have free forms.
    • Pro Se Help Centers — court staff help self-representers.
    • Library legal collections — research books + databases.
    • NCSC.org — court self-help.
    • Don't self-represent in complex matters.

    Hospice + nursing home

    Many hospices include social workers who help with legal needs (Medicaid, advance directives, estate). Nursing home Long-term Care Ombudsman — your free advocate. Reports issues, fights for resident rights. Every state has one. Call 1-800-677-1116.