Elderly Benefit Specialists

An elderly benefit specialist is a person trained to help older persons who are having a problem with their private or government benefits.

County and tribal benefit specialists are often called red tape cutters because they are experts at helping older persons with the extensive and complicated paperwork that is often required in benefit programs. They help older persons figure out what benefits they are entitled to and tell them what they must do to receive them.

Elderly benefit specialists receive ongoing training and are monitored by attorneys knowledgeable in elder law. The attorneys are also available to assist older persons in need of legal representation on benefit matters.

Who Should Seek Help From An Elderly Benefit Specialist?

• Older persons who just want to know more about any private or public benefit.
• Older persons who need help in organizing the paperwork to apply for benefits.
• Older persons who have been denied a benefit that they think they are entitled to receive.

What Elderly Benefit Specialists Can Do

• Provide accurate and current information on your benefits.
• Suggest alternative actions that you can take to secure benefits or appeal denials of benefits.
• Advocate on your behalf with other parties.
• Explain what legal action or other possible solution is required.
• Refer you to an appropriate attorney when necessary.

Benefit specialists can help you with a variety of programs and issues, including:

• Medicare; Medicare Part D
  • 2007 Medicare Health plan decisions need to be made between 
    Nov. 15 - Dec. 15. Contact an Elderly Benefits Specialist for more information. For more information visit, www.WisMedRx.org (exit DHFS) or www.medicare.gov (exit DHFS)
• Medicare Supplemental Insurance;
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI);
• Social Security;
• Medical Assistance;
• Consumer problems;
• Age discrimination in employment;
• Homestead Tax Credit;
• Housing problems;
• Supportive Home Services;
• Food Stamps;
• Veteran’s Administration benefits;
• General Relief; and
• Other legal and benefit problems.

Who Is Eligible For Elderly Benefit Specialist Services?

Anyone 60 years of age or older who is having a problem in securing a public or private benefit is eligible for the Elderly Benefit Specialist Program. 
Disability Benefit Specialists provide confidential assistance at no charge to people with physical and/or developmental disabilities between the ages of 18 and 59.

What Does the Elderly Benefit Specialist Service Cost?

The program is supported with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the federal Older Americans Act. There is no charge for the service, but persons assisted by the program are encouraged to make a donation towards the cost. All donated funds will be used to expand the program. Services will not be refused or limited in any way if a contribution is not made.

Who Provides Elderly Benefit Specialist Services?

Services are either provided directly, or contracted to another agency by county and tribal aging units. The area agencies on aging contract for training and support of the benefit specialists by attorneys. The State Bureau on Aging in the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services coordinates the program statewide.

For more information, contact the county or tribal benefit specialist nearest you. Ask specifically for the benefit specialist when calling. To receive the best service, it is advisable to schedule an appointment in advance.

Last Revised: December 12, 2007