ChippewaCounty

Elderly Benefit Specialist

Who We Are
As people age, they often need help from government benefit programs such as Medicare, Medical Assistance, Social Security, SSI, Food share, the Community Options Program and others.  But accessing those benefits can sometimes be difficult and confusing.

The Benefit Specialist Program is a federal and state mandated advocacy program designed to provide older adults with assistance.  This includes educating about public and private benefit programs, screening Seniors to determine what benefits they are entitled to, helping Seniors apply for and secure benefits, and advocating with them to resolve problems with benefits/denials through an appeal process.

Benefit specialists receive in-depth, on-going training in the areas of benefit and entitlement programs, as well as other legal issues affecting older adults.  An attorney provides supervision and support to the benefit specialist and works closely with them to ensure high-quality advocacy and representation for all Wisconsin residents.

What Types of Questions Can a Benefit Specialist Answer?

• Do I have to repay a Social Security or SSI overpayment if it was not my fault?
• Will Medicare or Medical Assistance cover my nursing home stay?
• How will I pay all of my medical bills?
• I have been denied SSI or Social Security disability benefits.  What can I do about it?
• What programs are available to provide services to help me remain in my home?
• Medicare denied my claim for a certain service or procedure.  Can anything be done?
• Are there any new or recent changes in programs available to me?

What can a benefit specialist help you with?

• Medicare, Part A, B,& D
• Medicare Supplemental Insurance/Medicare Health Plans
• Social Security
• Medical Assistance
• Homestead Tax Credit
• Housing Problems
• Food Share Program
• Power of Attorney for Health Care/Advance Directives
• Other Legal and Benefit Problems

Who is eligible for benefit specialist services?
Anyone 60 years of age or older is eligible for the Benefit Specialist Program.  We ask that you please call ahead for an appointment -  (715) 726-7777

What Does the 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 people assisted by the program are encouraged to make a donation toward the cost of the service.  All donated funds will be used to expand these services.

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