Benefits Counseling

Program Contact


Cathy Bonvicini - Disability Specialist (18 - 59)
Laura Schimberg - Elder Benefit Specialist (60+)

The Disability Benefit Specialist (DBS) program is a service of the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Ozaukee County. The DBS works closely with information and assistance, options counseling, and other resource center services.
  • The DBS provides information about public and private benefit programs including assistance with application and appeal procedures.
  • The DBS provides services to people ages 18 to 59 with physical disabilities, developmental disabilities, mental illness and substance use disorders.
Please note: There is no charge for Disability Benefit Specialist services.

    How can a Disability Benefit Specialist help you?

    Here are some of the provisions and services a Disability Benefit Specialist may help you with:
    • Help determine which benefits and programs you may be entitled to
    • Help you to fill out applications for benefits, programs and services
    • In some cases, you may receive representation in formal appeals related to denials of eligibility, termination of benefits or overpayment of public and private benefits
    • Provide accurate information on public and private benefits and programs
    • Provide assistance in obtaining or retaining benefits and services
    • Provide referrals, assistance and support on other matters including disability rights and the impact of earnings on financial eligibility for public benefits
    • Talk with you about your choices and the programs or services that might best meet your needs

    What programs can a Disability Benefit Specialist help with?

    Here are some areas and programs the Disability Benefit Specialist can help you with:
    • FoodShare
    • Housing and Utility Issues
    • Low-Income Tax Credits
    • Medicaid (Medical Assistance)
    • Medicare, including Part D
    • Prescription Drug Assistance
    • Private Health and Disability Insurance Issues
    • Social Security Disability Income (SSDI)
    • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
    • Veteran's Benefits

    An Elder Benefit Specialist is a person trained to help older adults who are having a problem with their private or government benefits by cutting through the "red tape" of the various federal, state, and county systems. They help older adults figure out what benefits they are entitled to and tell them what they must do to receive them. The ADRC of Ozaukee County Elder Benefit Specialist receives on-going training in the areas of benefit and entitlement programs, as well as legal issues affecting older adults. A Senior Law Attorney provides supervision and support to the Elder Benefit Specialist.

    Eligibility

     
    Ozaukee County residents age 60 years or older who are having a problem securing a public or private benefit are eligible for help from the ADRC of Ozaukee County Elder Benefit Specialist.

    Who should seek help from the Elder Benefit Specialist?
    Persons who:
    • Have been denied a benefit that they think they are entitled to receive
    • Need help organizing the paperwork and applying for benefits
    • Want to know more about their benefits