What is a Benefit
Specialist?
A Benefit Specialist is a person trained to help older
persons who are having problems with their private or government
benefits. Benefit Specialists are often called “Red Tape Cutters”
because they are experts at helping older persons with the extensive
and complicated paperwork that is often required in benefit programs.
They help older persons figure out what benefits they are entitled
to and tell them what they must do to receive them. Benefit Specialists
are continually trained and monitored by attorneys knowledgeable
in elder law. The attorneys are also available to assist older persons
in need of legal representation on benefit matters.
Who is eligible for Benefit Specialist
Services?
Anyone age 60 years or older who is having a problem in
securing a public or private benefit is eligible for the Benefit
Specialist Program.
Your Benefit Specialist Can:
Provide accurate and current information on your benefits
Suggest alternative actions that you can take yourself
to secure benefits or appeal denials of benefits
Advocate on your behalf with the other parties involved
Explain what legal action or other possible solution is
required
Refer you to an attorney
What can a Benefit Specialist Help You With?
- Medicare
- Medicare Supplemental Insurance
- Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI)
- Social Security
- Medical Assistance
- Consumer Problems
- Age Discrimination in Employment
- Homestead Tax Credit Housing Problems
- Supportive Home Services
- Food Share (formerly Food Stamps)
- Veteran’s Administration Benefits
- Other Legal and Benefit Problems
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