Older Adults Benefits
Benefits Counseling
Our trained volunteers assist older adults in applying for and maintaining public entitlements. Individuals are screened for programs that may provide financial assistance or services. The following programs are not fee-based, but some financial and demographic guidelines may determine eligibility.
To learn more about this supportive service, contact us at 847.784.6040 or oabp@nssc.org.
SNAP/Link Benefits
Formerly known as food stamps, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a U.S. federal program that provides monthly funds, loaded onto an EBT card, to help low-income individuals and families buy nutritious food.
In Cook County, call the Greater Chicago Food Depository’s benefits hotline at 773.843.5416 or submit the online form to have them call you back. You can also log into your account on the Application for Benefits Eligible (ABE) website or create an account on ABE to learn more.
Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP)
SHIP is a free statewide health insurance counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers. SHIP currently has 186 offices throughout the state, and has more than 600 volunteer counselors. All offices are volunteer-based and supported by local sponsoring organizations that offer services to Medicare beneficiaries.
NSSC’s SHIP volunteers meet with people in both our Northfield and Niles offices. There is no charge to meet with a SHIP counselor.
- SHIP is not affiliated with any insurance company.
- SHIP counselors do not sell or solicit any type of insurance.
- Counselors are trained to educate consumers and answer questions about Medicare, Medicare Supplement, long-term care insurance, Medicare HMOs, private fee-for-service, and other health insurance. They also can organize and assist in filing Medicare and Medicare Supplement claims and analyze Medicare supplement and long-term care policies.
Questions about Medicare?
SHIP counselors are available to help by phone or Zoom. Counselors provide information and guidance about:
- Signing up for Medicare at age 65 or due to disability
- Health coverage after retirement
- Understanding Medicaid, MMAI and HealthChoice Illinois
- High prescription or healthcare costs
To learn more about how SHIP counselors can help you, please call 847.784.6040 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, or email SHIP@nssc.org.
