BenefitsCheckUp.org
Free tool. Find $1,000s in benefits.
What it does
- Free service from National Council on Aging.
- Asks questions about you.
- Matches you to 2,500+ benefit programs.
- Federal, state, local programs.
- Average senior qualifies for $5,000+/yr in unused benefits.
- Takes 15-30 min.
- Anonymous if want.
Programs it finds
- SNAP (food stamps).
- Medicare Savings Programs.
- Medicare Extra Help (drug costs).
- LIHEAP (energy bills).
- Property tax relief.
- State pharmaceutical programs.
- Senior employment.
- Transportation.
- Housing assistance.
How to use
- Go to benefitscheckup.org.
- FREE — no signup required.
- Enter ZIP code.
- Answer income + situation questions.
- See list of programs you qualify for.
- Print results.
- Apply for each one (takes time).
Most-missed benefits
- SNAP — many seniors qualify, don't apply.
- Medicare Savings Programs — pays Part B premium.
- Extra Help — drug subsidies.
- Property tax exemptions — most states.
- LIHEAP — utility bill help.
- Veterans Aid + Attendance — for vets needing care.
- Apply for ALL — programs don't auto-enroll.
Free application help
- Eldercare Locator — 1-800-677-1116.
- Area Agency on Aging — local office helps.
- SHIP — Medicare-specific.
- 2-1-1 — local social services hotline.
- Many programs assigned through aging services.
- Don't pay for application help.
Higher income limits
Many seniors think they're too "rich" for benefits. Income limits often higher than expected. Many seniors with $40-60K/yr qualify for programs. Asset limits often EXCLUDE home + 1 car. Check — could save $5K+/year.