Start with the responsible source

Recognize safety concerns, document facts, find reporting routes, understand rights, and avoid escalating danger through poorly planned intervention. The resources below are starting points for verification, applications, complaints, provider searches, and local referrals.

Where to begin

  • Call emergency services for immediate danger.
  • Use the National Center on Elder Abuse resources to locate state reporting contacts.
  • Use the Long-Term Care Ombudsman locator for covered facilities.
  • Use DOJ Elder Justice resources for financial exploitation and abuse information.

Official and established resources

Prepare before calling or applying

  • Write the exact question and desired outcome.
  • Have the relevant card, notice, bill, account number, dates, and ZIP code available—but do not send sensitive information to an unverified contact.
  • Ask whether the office serves the correct county, plan, provider type, or legal issue.
  • Ask what documents are required and whether an appointment is necessary.
  • Record the representative’s name, date, confirmation number, and next step.
  • Request an accessible format, interpreter, relay service, or reasonable accommodation when needed.

Verify the organization

Use the official web address or a phone number printed on an official notice. Commercial advertisements and lead-generation forms can appear above government results in search engines. Confirm the domain before entering personal information.

More pages

Within this subject: Updates and Official Changes, Decision Checklist, Common Mistakes and Warning Signs, State-by-State Differences.

Related subjects: Scams, Identity Theft, Robocalls, and Financial Exploitation, Long-Term Care, Home Care, Hospice, and Facility Quality, Advance Directives, Hospice, Funeral, and Estate Planning.

Last reviewed

Resource links and descriptions were reviewed on 2026-07-30. Program capacity, hours, and local availability still require direct confirmation.