Benefit Specialist Program

At the Racine County Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) we have trained Information and Assistance Specialists who can help people identify their need(s), sort through options and make choices that are best for them. When further assistance with benefits is needed, we have two Benefits Specialists on staff. Our Benefits Specialists are available to disabled persons ages 18 to 59, and those over the age of 60 to appeal Social Security decisions and navigate the complex systems of public and private health insurance.

What is a Benefit Specialist

Disability Benefit Specialist Brochure (Ages 18-59)

Elderly Benefit Specialist Brochure (Ages 60+)

The Red Tape Cutters: Elder Benefit Specialists (State Brochure)

There are numerous programs such as Medicaid Purchase Plan (MAPP), Medicare Part A, B, C, and D, and Senior Care that can be overwhelming and our Benefits Specialists are available by appointment to assist in these matters. If you require this type of assistance please visit our contact page. If you are unsure if this is the person that can potentially assist you, our Information and Assistance Specialists will be able to connect you with the appropriate resource.

Benefit Information

Insurance:

Medicare

Medicaid Programs

Medicare Workshops are offered by the ADRC - See the Classes and Workshops page here.

YouToons Video Explains Health Insurance -- from the Kaiser Family Foundation

In the 5-minute animated video produced by the Kaiser Family Foundation, Health Insurance Explained – The YouToons Have It Covered Http://kff.org/youtoons-health-insurance-explained The YouToons break down important insurance concepts, such as premiums, deductibles and provider networks. The video explains how individuals pay for coverage and obtain medical care and prescription drugs when enrolled in various types of health insurance, including HMOs and PPOs.

Energy Assistance and Food Assistance:

Programs Information

Fraud and Identity Theft

Resource Information

Legal Action of Wisconsin and Wisconsin Judicare are pleased to announce that we will provide statewide civil legal aid to elder abuse victims through the Elder Rights Project (ERP). The Elder Rights project seeks to Help elder abuse victims in Wisconsin become safe and independent, stabilize their lives, and meet their emotional and physical needs by resolving their critical civil legal problems. See More

Prescription Drugs:

Resource Information

Information & Resources

Wisconsin State Health Insurance and Assistance Program: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/benefit-specialists/medicare-counseling.htm

Medigap Helpline: 800-242-1060

http://longtermcare.wi.gov/category.asp?linkcatid=1958&linkid=1014&locid=123

Prescription Drug Helpline (over age 60) 855-67 PART D or 855-677-2783

Prescription Drug Helpline (under age 60) 800-926-4862

http://www.disabilityrightswi.org/learn/disability-drug-benefit-helpline-medicare-part-d/

Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance:

https://oci.wi.gov/Pages/Homepage.aspx

Benefits Checkup - a Service of the National Council on Aging: http://www.benefitscheckup.org/ There are benefits you may be missing! BenefitsCheckUp helps you find and enroll in public and private benefits programs. You can also find an online application for Medicare's Extra Help. It's simple and free and always includes the most up-to-date information. They have a new option called Economic Check Up to help older adults to find work, budget their money, and save on daily expenses.