Older adults can focus on staying healthy and saving money by using BenefitsCheckUp, a free, online benefits screening service developed and maintained by the National Council on Aging (NCOA).
Federal changes to Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) and Medicare’s Low Income Subsidy (“Extra Help”) mean a simplified application process and greater eligibility for these programs. MSP provides support to seniors by helping with Medicare costs, such as the monthly Part B premiums and, in some cases, other premiums, deductibles and co-pays. Medicare’s Extra Help assists with the cost of Medicare prescription drug coverage.
Seniors, particularly those with low income and limited resources, can access new information on these and other benefits programs, as well as an updated Medicare RX Extra Help online application form, by visiting www.benefitscheckup.org.
It’s important for seniors to check their eligibility for the MSP and Extra Help programs, as people who previously didn’t qualify may be eligible for these benefits in 2010. BenefitsCheckUp has made updates to account for these changes, making it quick and easy for seniors to access updated information, eligibility rules and application forms.
Seniors can use BenefitsCheckUp as a resource to determine their eligibility for additional benefits programs, including more than 2,000 federal, state and local programs that can help with utilities, food, housing and other basic needs.
Article written by Kim Johanson, contributing sedonaeye.com Senior Issues and Health Care writer. Have questions about health care issues or benefits? Want to comment or need help finding answers to health care problems? Submit your questions and or comments below. Kim will post a reply.
thanks for the info