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What is Benefits Counseling?

An Elder Disability Benefit Specialists can provide you with accurate and current information about private and government benefits and programs that you may be entitled to. They help to sort through the maze of benefits, the varying eligibility requirements and application processes. Benefits specialists can also help when people run into problems with Medicare, Social Security, and other benefits.

Elder Benefit Specialist

About Elder Benefit Specialists

The Elder Benefit Specialist Program is a federal and state mandated advocacy program, funded through the Older Americans Act and State dollars. Elder Benefit Specialists are trained in the areas of benefit and entitlement programs as well as other issues. The Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources in Madison, Wisconsin provides in-depth, on-going training and assistance.

The Elder Benefit Specialist works with county residents 60 years of age and older, regardless of financial status.

Who Should Use the Service?
  • Anyone 60 years of age or older who is having a problem in securing a public or private benefit.
    Older persons who just want to know more about any private or public benefit.
  • Older persons who need help in organizing the paperwork that comes with applying for benefits, and
  • Older persons who have been denied a benefit that they think they are entitled to receive.
How Can the Elder Benefit Specialists Help?
  • Provide accurate and current information on your benefits
  • Suggest alternative actions to secure benefits or appeal denial of benefits
  • Advocate on your behalf with the other parties involved
  • Explain what legal action or other possible solution is required
What can the Elder Benefit Specialists Help With?
  • Medicare and Medicare Supplemental Insurance
  • Medical Assistance (MA) and Low Income Subsidy Programs (QMB, SLMB, SLMB+)
  • Social Security  and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Senior Care and Medicare Part D[
  • Foodshare (food stamps) and Energy Assistance
  • Other Legal, Benefit and Consumer Problems
How Do I Contact the Elder Benefit Specialist?
All it takes to contact the Elder Benefit Specialist is a phone call. Some questions can be answered over the phone. Appointments can be made to meet at the office of the Benefit Specialist. The phone number is (608) 328-9366. Elder Benefit Specialists also perform monthly outreach during scheduled hours at various sites around the County. Call the Elder Benefit Specialist to request information about the scheduled outreach site visits or find the schedule in The Bridge which is located on our website.  Arrangements can also be made for home visits.

 

What About Confidentiality?
All files and correspondence are kept locked, and your conversations with the Benefit Specialist will remain confidential. You may be asked to sign a release of information so the Benefit Specialist can inquire on your behalf.

 

What Is the Cost?
There is no charge for the services a Benefit Specialist provides. However, persons assisted by the program are strongly encouraged to make a donation towards the cost of the service. Service will not be refused or limited in any way if a contribution is not made.

 

New to Medicare
Or
Medicare 101

Turning 65 presents new choices for your healthcare. It is normal to have many questions such as what are my Medicare options, when do I need to apply and just what does Medicare A, B, C and D mean? The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) is offering an informational, non-biased seminar to help you navigate this time of your life.

When:  4th Thursday of each month. 6-7 pm

Where: Human Services Building, N3152 Hwy 81

Due to Covid restrictions, there will be a limit of 10 attendees currently so preregistration is required.

Please call 608-328-9499 to reserve your seat.

In addition, the Elder Benefit Specialist is available by phone for Social Security, Medicare as well as other important topics that affect anyone over the age of 60. Please call the ADRC to reach the Benefit Specialist.

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