Q: What is BenefitsCheckUp.org?
A: The National Council on Aging has launched a free on-line service available to anyone who is interested in finding out more information about federal and state government assistance programs available to older Americans and their caregivers. With the click of a mouse, seniors and their family members, caregivers and friends can let technology sift through the many layers of government bureaucracy to identify public programs that may be of assistance to them. Applicants just need to complete a simple, confidential survey on-line to retrieve an immediate, free report listing government benefits for which they may qualify. More detailed information also is provided on how to apply for the benefits listed. The website offers seniors a quick, private and easy way to track down government benefits, eliminating an often time-consuming and frustrating experience. Contact your local library or local agency on aging if you don’t have access to a computer. Before you go on-line, be prepared to answer basic questions about your financial situation to obtain the best information about your eligibility for programs and services. Go to http://BenefitsCheckUp.org to search the site for yourself, friend or family member.
Q: What kind of information is provided in the search?
A: Many people may be surprised to learn about the various public assistance programs that may match their individual circumstances. From housing, to employment, prescription drugs, tax breaks, transportation and veterans benefits, the National Council on Aging’s database searches more than 1,000 government programs from across the nation, including Supplemental Security Income, Medicaid, state drug benefits, Meals on Wheels, food stamps and even local benefits such as property-tax exemptions and utility-bill relief. For an accurate search, be prepared to answer the following information: date of birth for self and spouse; state and zip code; type of residence; length of time in residence; veteran status; employment history; current income; estimates of living expenses. Your privacy during the search is protected since it is not required to give your name, Social Security number, or phone number. BenefitsCheckUp.org is like a one-stop shopping on-line concierge. It sure beats trying to navigate government programs the old-fashioned way. This comprehensive web tool, which took three years to complete, not only can save families time and money, the results of a search can make life easier for those age 55 and older who may be eligible for home health care, transportation or housing programs. This on-line research service may be particularly helpful for the millions of American households providing care to an older family member or loved one and to those who live far away from an elderly parent. The National Council on Aging is a national, nonprofit group whose mission is dedicated to promoting the dignity, independence, well-being, and contributions of older people. As an advocate for elderly Americans and their caregivers in the U.S. Senate, I encourage people to take advantage of this free service to see if you or a loved one is eligible for government services.