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Benefit Specialists
Who We Are
As people age, they often need help from government benefit programs such as Medicare, Medical Assistance, Social Security, SSI, Food Stamps, 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 on some legal issues. Assistance can range from information about eligibility criteria and help in applying for an entitlement, to assistance in receiving benefits, covered services or appealing denials and terminations. Representation may take the form of paper reviews and reconsiderations through appeals process including in-person hearings before an Administrative Law Judge or a hearing officer.
Benefits 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 benefits specialist and works closely with them to ensure high-quality advocacy and representation for all Wisconsin residents.
What We Do
The Benefit Specialist Program:
- Provides information, assistance, and counseling to elders concerning government benefit and entitlement programs. Assistance includes information about eligibility, help in applying, and appealing denials and terminations.
- Provides representation to elders when appeals are necessary, including paper reviews and in-person hearings before a hearing officer.
- Refers elders to appropriate community resources, such as area coalitions and senior centers, day care services, housing options, and other legal services.
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?
Who Is Eligble for Benefit Specialist Services?
Anyone 60 years of age or older who is having a problem securing a public or private benefit is eligible for the Benefit Specialist Program. What Does the Benefit Specialist Service Cost?
The program is supported with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the federal Older American Act. There is no charge for the services but persons assisted by the program are encouraged to make a donation towards the cost of the service. All donated funds will be used to expand these services. Service will not be refused if a contribution is not made.
Publications
For publications related to benefit programs, click here
How Do I Contact a Benefit Specialist?
Click here for contact information for the benefit specialist in
each Wisconsin county and tribe. You may also contact the
Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups at 1-800-488-2596 or 608-224-0606
for the name of the benefit specialist in your area.
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