Elder Benefit Specialists

EBS – Elder Benefit Specialists

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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 (GWAAR) 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. Contact your local ADRC Office and you can get connected to the Elder Benefit Specialist.  Each Benefit Specialist also performs monthly outreach during scheduled hours at various sites around the counties. Call your local ADRC office request information about the scheduled outreach site visits.  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.