Over the four years that our site has been in existence, we have found a preponderance of the questions sent to us start out with "Where can I find information on benefits….", and then asks about a specific benefit. We have attempted to inform these individuals of specific places they can go to get the information. Frequently getting the answer involves checking with your state office of aging.

Recently, we became aware of a site, where you can get specific information by just answering a few questions: age, income and zip code number. This site is free, easy-to-use and confidential. It is funded by the federal governmental agency the National Institute on Aging (NIA). The site's address is http://www.benefitscheckup.org

You do not have to give your name, address, phone number or social security number. As far as we can tell, there is no down side risk to checking this site. We have talked to individuals who have used this site and they tell us that it takes all of ten minutes to get all the information on benefits. We have not heard one negative word about this site. It is under the auspices of The National Council on Aging, a highly respected association dedicated to helping senior citizens.

The following program information and eligibility standards are provided on this site: food stamps, supplementary income (SSI), pharmacy assistance, Medicaid and others. The site also gives information on Veteran’s programs, property tax relief, nutrition programs and education benefits.

Even if you think you know all your benefits, check this site, you may be overlooking a benefit. Middle class and upper class individuals may be missing out on benefits. If you experience any difficulty with this site, please let us know.

FOR AN INFORMATIVE AND PERSONAL ARTICLE ON PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS WHEN SELECTING A NURSING HOME SEE OUR ARTICLE "How to Select a Nursing Home" 

by Harold Rubin, MS, ABD, CRC
posted March 1, 2002

http://www.therubins.com

To e-mail: rehabstrat1@aol.com or rubin@brainlink.com