What do elder benefit specialists do?

Elder benefit specialists provide trusted and confidential advice to adults ages 60 and older about benefits, including health care and programs that could save them money.

Elder benefit specialists can help with:

• Income, including:
  • Debt collection
  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)—program that pays benefits to you and certain members of your family if you’re “insured,” meaning you worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes
  • Social Security Retirement
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)—program that pays benefits based on financial need
• Health insurance, including:
  • Medicaid
  • MAPP (Medicaid Purchase Plan)
  • Medicare
  • SeniorCare prescription drug program
  • Other programs that help cover health care costs
• Housing and utilities, including:
  • Evictions
  • Financial assistance programs
  • Shutoffs
  • Tenant rights
• Expenses, including:
  • FoodShare
  • Internet bills
  • Phone bills

All elder benefit specialists are trained as State Health Insurance Assistance Program counselors.

Also, the services they provide are free. They don’t sell anything and aren’t paid by a company or plan. Their only goal is to help you identify and apply for programs and health care that will best meet your needs.

Find examples of ways benefit specialists can help you.

Who can see an elder benefit specialist?

You can see an elder benefit specialist if you:

• Are age 60 or older.
• Live in Wisconsin.

If you give permission, your family, friends, and caregivers can also talk to your benefit specialist.

Where can I find a benefit specialist?

Find a benefit specialist near you

Similar services are available for people 60 and older through disability benefit specialists. Also, if you have questions about working and Social Security benefits, you can contact a work incentives benefit specialist.

Program materials

Disability and Elder Benefit Specialist Program Summary Reports, P-00332