Cash Assistance Through EBT Cards

If you need cash assistance from the government, chances are you will probably use the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system.

Qualifications

The following are the standard guidelines that are followed for one to qualify for government cash assistance:

1) You should be a resident of the state you will be applying in.

2) You should be a U.S. national, citizen, legal alien or permanent resident.

3) Depending on the programs you are applying for, you should pass all qualifications. Normally, this means you should have low or very low income, underemployed or unemployed, and be pregnant or be responsible for a child below 19 years of age.

Assistance

Once you qualify, you can be given a monthly cash or check payment. Lately, however, more services and programs, such as the Food Stamp Program and the Temporary Aid for Needy Families (TANF) are using EBT cards. These cards work in the same way as debit cards, with the benefits available through either ATM tellers or Point of Sales (PoS) machines in participating establishments.

Application

In order to apply for cash assistance, do check with your local government offices for the various rules that you have to follow. Submit all needed documents early, so your application can be processed faster. You may have to apply for various programs separately, and with different departments. Also, you will most probably end up with more than one EBT card.

Sign up on the box at the right to get more information about cash assistance from the government.

What is WIC?
The Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, popularly known as the WIC program, is dedicated to protecting the health of low-income pregnant women, postpartum and breastfeeding mothers, infants and children up to five years of age who are at a high nutritional risk. The program serves them nutritious food to aid them in their diet. Useful services such as tips on good eating and referrals to healthcare have made this program a big success in every community.

The WIC program provides all participants with a wide range of benefits:
• Supplemental nutritious meals
• Nutrition education and counseling
• Screening and referrals to health, welfare and social services
• Program delivery

Living a life in the pink of health is no longer for those who can afford it. Learn the many ways of living a healthy lifestyle and enjoying a happy family by getting the right resources available.

Sign up on the box at the top right to find out more about healthcare resources.

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Your Guide to Public Benefits in Montana

Find, understand, and apply for programs in your state that can help:

• Increase your income,
• Save money on prescription drugs
• Pay doctors’ bills;
• Buy groceries; and
• Cover other basic costs.

This fact sheet describes the programs in your state, helps you decide which are right for you, and tells you how to sign up. Income guidelines, eligibility requirements, and telephone numbers are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information in your ZIP code area log on to www.aarp.org/quicklink.

You can also go to the Benefits QuickLINK website (www.aarp.org/quicklink) to find out if you qualify for the benefits listed below or to print out applications for programs in your state.

Paying for Health Care and Prescription Drugs

Medicare

Benefit: Health insurance that helps pay for preventive care, doctor visits, hospital stays
and prescription drugs.

Who can apply: People who are 65 and older, and younger people with disabilities
or kidney failure.

How to apply: Call the Social Security Administration toll-free at 1-800-772-1213
and tell the operator where you live. You can also log on to www.socialsecurity.gov and select “Questions about Medicare.” For information about the Medicare prescription drug coverage, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or log on to www.medicare.gov.

For additional assistance, call the Montana State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) toll-free at 1-800-551-3191 or 406-444-7870. Or, log on to www.dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/services/aging/ship.shtml.

Medicare Savings Programs

Benefit: Pays for some of the costs of Medicare, including the Part B premium, deductibles, and co-payments. How much you get depends on your income and assets.

Who can apply: People who get Medicare and earn around $1,170 per month for one person, or $1,575 per month for a married couple.

How to apply: You can receive an application from any local Office of Public Assistance. For a complete list of county offices, log on to www.dphhs.mt.gov/contactus/countyservices.shtml.

For one-on-one assistance, call the Montana State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) at 1-800-551-3191 or 406-444-7870. Or, log on to www.dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/services/aging/ship.shtml.

Medicare Rx Extra Help

Benefit: Pays for the monthly fee and deductible for Medicare prescription drug coverage, and lowers prescription drug
co-payments.

Who can apply: People who get Medicare and have combined savings, investments and real estate (other than your home) are
not worth more than $12,510 if you are single, or $25,010 if you are married and living with your spouse and have a limited
income.

How to apply: Call the Social Security Administration toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 and ask for the Medicare Rx Extra Help application. You can also log on to www.socialsecurity.gov and click on the Medicare section.

For additional assistance, call the Montana State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) toll-free at 1-800-551-3191 or 406-444-7870. Or, log on to www.dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/services/aging/ship.shtml.

Big Sky Rx

Benefit: A state program that helps pay for monthly Medicare drug coverage premiums up to $33.19/month.

Who can apply: Montana residents with Medicare and an annual income at or below $21,660 for one person, or $29,140 for a married couple. There are no resource limits for Big Sky Rx benefits.

How to apply: For more information or to get an application, call Big Sky Rx toll-free at 1-866-369-1233 (in-state) or print one at www.bigskyrx.mt.gov. Call Big Sky Rx if you need help or send them an email at bigskyrx@mt.gov. You can mail in the completed application to:

Big Sky Rx
PO Box 202915
Helena, MT 59620-2915

or fax it to 1-406-444-3846. After your application is approved, you should enroll in a Medicare Approved Prescription Drug Plan that is offered in Montana. You do not have to wait until November to enroll because Big Sky Rx qualifies for the Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

Medicaid

Benefit: Provides medical coverage for hospital care, health center and clinical services, doctor care, nurse care, lab and X-ray services and nursing homes.

Who can apply: People who are 65 or older, blind or have disabilities, few resources, or in some cases, high medical bills. To qualify,
you must meet Medicaid income and asset limits. Income limits vary, depending on the size of your family and where you live. Income limits also vary based on the particular Medicaid program for which you qualify, so contact your state Medicaid office
for more information.

How to apply: You can get an application for Medicaid from any local Office of Public Assistance. For a complete list of county offices, log on to www.dphhs.mt.gov/contactus/countyservices.shtml.

Help with Your Home

State Property Tax Assistance

Benefit: Montana homeowners may have their property taxes reduced if they meet certain eligibility requirements. The amount varies depending on which type of property tax program they are eligible for and their income. Residential property of certain disabled veterans, and the spouses of deceased veterans, is exempt from property taxation.

Who can apply: Any homeowner or renter may have their property taxes reduced if their income is less than $19,944 for an individual or $26,592 for a married couple, and they have occupied the house as their primary residence for the last seven months. Disabled veterans or their surviving spouse may be exempt from property taxation if their annual adjusted gross income is less than $35,266 (single) or $42,319 (married). Additionally, income tax credit is available for qualifying individuals who are 62 and over as of December 31.

How to apply: For further information, visit the Montana Department of Revenue website at www.mt.gov/revenue/forindividuals/property/reliefpt.asp or call 406-444-6900.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Programs

Benefit: Pays heating and cooling bills, and some energy-related home repairs.

Who can apply: Low-income people with annual incomes less than $18,200 for one person, or $24,500 for two people.

How to apply: For additional information or application assistance, call toll-free 1-800-332-2272 (statewide) or log on to www.dphhs.mt.gov/index.shtml.

Telephone Assistance

Benefit: Helps pay for the cost of basic local telephone services.

Who can apply: Qualified low-income older adults. You are automatically eligible if you are in one of the following programs: Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Housing Assistance/Section 8 Programs, Food Stamps, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Programs, Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) General Assistance, and Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).

How to apply: Call your local phone company and tell the sales department that you want to apply for Link Up or Lifeline.

Help Buying Nutritious Food

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Benefit: An Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, similar to a debit card, that you can use like cash to pay for food at most grocery stores.

Who can apply: People with limited income and resources, especially people 60 and over.

How to apply: Contact the Montana Office of Public Assistance toll-free at 1-800-332-2272 (statewide) or log on to www.dphhs.mt.gov/index.shtml.

Cash Assistance

Social Security

Benefit: Monthly checks. How much you get depends on how long you have worked, how much money you earned, where you worked, and your age when you began getting benefits.

Who can apply: Workers who are 62 or older, people with disabilities, or the spouse and children of a deceased or disabled worker who paid into the Social Security program.

How to apply: You can find out if you qualify for Social Security Benefits by using the screening tool on the Social Security website (www.socialsecurity.gov). If you qualify, you can apply for retirement benefits online at www.socialsecurity.gov. You can also make an appointment at your local Social Security Office. To find your local Social Security Office, call 1-800-772-1213 toll free and tell the operator where you live.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Benefit: Monthly checks.

Who can apply: People who are 65 and older, or people who are blind or have disabilities and have very low income and assets.

How to apply: You must make an appointment at your local Social Security office to apply. You can find your local Social Security office by calling 1-800-772-1213 toll free and telling the operator where you live. Or, you can log on to www.ssa.gov/pgm/links_ssi.htm.

Other Information

Eldercare Locator

Connects older Americans and their caregivers with sources of information on senior services. Call 1-800-677-1116 (hours of operation are Mon. – Fri. 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET) or log on to www.eldercare.gov.

Senior Information Hotline

For additional information about other programs and resources for seniors, call the Montana Area Agencies on Aging toll-free at 1-800-332-2272 (statewide) or 1-800-551-3191. Or, log on to www.dphhs.mt.gov/sltc.

Legal Help

If you need a lawyer but have limited resources, contact the Montana Legal Services Helpline toll-free at 1-800-666-6899 or log on to www.MontanaLawHelp.org.

You can also go to the Benefits QuickLINK website at www.aarp.org/quicklink.

Benefits Outreach Program
601 E Street, NW
Washington, DC 20049
1-888-OUR-AARP (1-888-687-2277)
Email: benefitsoutreach@aarp.org

The AARP Foundation is AARP’s affiliated charity. Foundation programs provide security, protection and empowerment for older persons in need. Low-income older workers receive the job training and placement they need to re-join the workforce. Free tax preparation is provided for low-and moderate-income individuals, with special attention to those 60 and older. The Foundation’s litigation staff protects the legal rights of older Americans in critical health, long-term care, consumer and employment situations. Additional programs provide information, education and services to ensure that people over 50 lead lives of independence, dignity and purpose. Foundation programs are funded by grants, tax-deductible contributions and AARP.

Your Guide to Public Benefits in Missouri

Find, understand, and apply for programs in your state that can help:

• Increase your income,
• Save money on prescription drugs
• Pay doctors’ bills;
• Buy groceries; and
• Cover other basic costs.

This fact sheet describes the programs in your state, helps you decide which are right for you, and tells you how to sign up. Income guidelines, eligibility requirements, and telephone numbers are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information in your ZIP code area log on to www.aarp.org/quicklink.

You can also go to the Benefits QuickLINK website (www.aarp.org/quicklink) to find out if you qualify for the benefits listed below or to print out applications for programs in your state.

Paying for Health Care and Prescription Drugs

Medicare

Benefit: Health insurance that helps pay for preventive care, doctor visits, hospital stays
and prescription drugs.

Who can apply: People who are 65 and older, and younger people with disabilities
or kidney failure.

How to apply: Call the Social Security Administration toll-free at 1-800-772-1213
and tell the operator where you live. You can also log on to www.socialsecurity.gov and select “Questions about Medicare.” For information about the Medicare prescription drug coverage, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or log on to www.medicare.gov.

For additional assistance, call CLAIM, also known as the Missouri State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), toll-free at 1-800-390-3330 or log on to www.missouriclaim.org.

Medicare Savings Programs

Benefit: Pays for some of the costs of Medicare, including the Part B premium, deductibles, and co-payments. How much you get depends on your income and assets.

Who can apply: People who get Medicare and earn around $1,219 per month for one person, or $1,640 per month for a married couple.

How to apply: For more information, call your local Area Agency on Aging toll-free at 1-800-235-5503 or Legal Services for the Elderly toll-free at 1-800-750-5353 (Voice and TTY).

Medicare Rx Extra Help

Benefit: Pays for the monthly fee and deductible for Medicare prescription drug coverage, and lowers prescription drug
co-payments.

Who can apply: People who get Medicare and have combined savings, investments and real estate (other than your home) are
not worth more than $12,510 if you are single, or $25,010 if you are married and living with your spouse and have a limited
income.

How to apply: Call the Social Security Administration toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 and ask for the Medicare Rx Extra Help application. You can also log on to www.socialsecurity.gov and click on the Medicare section.

For additional assistance, call CLAIM, also known as the Missouri State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), toll-free at 1-800-390-3330 or log on to www.missouriclaim.org.

Missouri Rx Plan

Benefit: MoRx pays for 50% of members’ out-of-pocket costs remaining after their Medicare Prescription Drug Plan pays. It pays for 50% of the deductible, 50% of the co-pays before the coverage gap, 50% of the coverage gap, and 50% of co-pays for catastrophic coverage. MoRx does not pay for the Medicare Part D Plan’s monthly premium.

Who can apply: Applicants must be a resident of the state of Missouri, 65 years of age or older and enrolled in Medicare; or age 18 to 64, have a disability and enrolled in Medicare; single with a yearly gross income of $21,660 or less, or married with an annual gross income of $29,140 or less; and enrolled in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D).

How to apply: For more information or an application, call the Help Desk toll-free at 1-800-375-1406 or log on to http://morx.mo.gov.

Medicaid

Benefit: Provides medical coverage for hospital care, health center and clinical services, doctor care, nurse care, lab and X-ray services and nursing homes.

Who can apply: People who are 65 or older, blind or have disabilities, few resources, or in some cases, high medical bills. To qualify,
you must meet Medicaid income and asset limits. Income limits vary, depending on the size of your family and where you live. Income limits also vary based on the particular Medicaid program for which you qualify, so contact your state Medicaid office
for more information.

How to apply: For more information or to apply, call the Family Support Division toll-free at 1-800-392-1261 or log on to www.dss.mo.gov and click on “Health Care.” You can also call the Department of Aging Information and Referral Hotline tollfree at 1-800-235-5503.

Help with Your Home

State Property Tax Assistance

Benefit: The Missouri Property Tax Credit (MO-PTC) Claim gives credit to certain older adults and 100 percent disabled individuals for a portion of the real estate taxes or rent they have paid for the year. The credit is for a maximum of $750 and can only be claimed on the home they occupied during the period being claimed. The actual credit is based on the amount of real estate taxes or rent paid and total household income.

Who can apply: Adults 65 and older with a total household income of $27,500 or less if single, or $29,500 or less if married. If you own and occupy your home but your income restricts you from qualifying for the MO-PTC, you may be eligible for the Homestead Preservation Credit (HPC). You can only receive one of the credits. You should determine which tax credit program is more beneficial to you.

How to apply: For more information contact the Tax Assistance Centers. For a complete list of tax centers log on to www.dor.mo.gov/tax/assistance.htm. For more information regarding the Home Preservation Credit, contact 573-751-3505 or log on to www.dor.mo.gov/tax/personal/homestead.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Programs

Benefit: Pays heating and cooling bills, and some energy-related home repairs.

Who can apply: Low-income people with annual incomes less than $13,000 for one person, or $17,500 for two people.

How to apply: For additional information or application assistance, call 573-526-4836 or log on to www.dss.mo.gov/fsd/liheap.htm.

Telephone Assistance

Benefit: Helps pay for the cost of basic local telephone services.

Who can apply: Qualified low-income older adults. You are automatically eligible if you are in one of the following programs: Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Housing Assistance/Section 8 Programs, Food Stamps, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Programs, Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) General Assistance, and Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).

How to apply: Call your local phone company and tell the sales department that you want to apply for Link Up or Lifeline.

Help Buying Nutritious Food

Food Stamp Program

Benefit: An Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, similar to a debit card, that you can use like cash to pay for food at most grocery stores.

Who can apply: People with limited income and resources, especially people 60 and over.

How to apply: Contact the Missouri Department of Social Services tollfree at 1-800-392-1261 or log on to www.dss.mo.gov/fsd/fstamp/index.htm.

Cash Assistance

Social Security

Benefit: Monthly checks. How much you get depends on how long you have worked, how much money you earned, where you worked, and your age when you began getting benefits.

Who can apply: Workers who are 62 or older, people with disabilities, or the spouse and children of a deceased or disabled worker who paid into the Social Security program.

How to apply: You can find out if you qualify for Social Security Benefits by using the screening tool on the Social Security website (www.socialsecurity.gov). If you qualify, you can apply for retirement benefits online at www.socialsecurity.gov. You can also make an appointment at your local Social Security Office. To find your local Social Security Office, call 1-800-772-1213 toll free and tell the operator where you live.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Benefit: Monthly checks.

Who can apply: People who are 65 and older, or people who are blind or have disabilities and have very low income and assets.

How to apply: You must make an appointment at your local Social Security office to apply. You can find your local Social Security office by calling 1-800-772-1213 toll free and telling the operator where you live. Or, you can log on to www.ssa.gov/pgm/links_ssi.htm.

Other Information

Eldercare Locator

Connects older Americans and their caregivers with sources of information on senior services. Call 1-800-677-1116 (hours of operation are Mon. – Fri. 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET) or log on to www.eldercare.gov.

Senior Information Hotline

For additional information about other programs and resources for older adults, call the Missouri Department of Senior and Disability Services tollfree at 1-800-235-5503 or log on to www.dhss.mo.gov.

Legal Help

If you need a lawyer but have limited resources, contact Legal Services of Missouri toll-free at 1-800-444-4863 (in-state only) or log on to www.lsmo.org.

You can also go to the Benefits QuickLINK website at www.aarp.org/quicklink.

Benefits Outreach Program
601 E Street, NW
Washington, DC 20049
1-888-OUR-AARP (1-888-687-2277)
Email: benefitsoutreach@aarp.org

The AARP Foundation is AARP’s affiliated charity. Foundation programs provide security, protection and empowerment for older persons in need. Low-income older workers receive the job training and placement they need to re-join the workforce. Free tax preparation is provided for low-and moderate-income individuals, with special attention to those 60 and older. The Foundation’s litigation staff protects the legal rights of older Americans in critical health, long-term care, consumer and employment situations. Additional programs provide information, education and services to ensure that people over 50 lead lives of independence, dignity and purpose. Foundation programs are funded by grants, tax-deductible contributions and AARP.

Your Guide to Public Benefits in Mississippi

Find, understand, and apply for programs in your state that can help:

• Increase your income,
• Save money on prescription drugs
• Pay doctors’ bills;
• Buy groceries; and
• Cover other basic costs.

This fact sheet describes the programs in your state, helps you decide which are right for you, and tells you how to sign up. Income guidelines, eligibility requirements, and telephone numbers are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information in your ZIP code area log on to www.aarp.org/quicklink.

You can also go to the Benefits QuickLINK website (www.aarp.org/quicklink) to find out if you qualify for the benefits listed below or to print out applications for programs in your state.

Paying for Health Care and Prescription Drugs

Medicare

Benefit: Health insurance that helps pay for preventive care, doctor visits, hospital stays
and prescription drugs.

Who can apply: People who are 65 and older, and younger people with disabilities
or kidney failure.

How to apply: Call the Social Security Administration toll-free at 1-800-772-1213
and tell the operator where you live. You can also log on to www.socialsecurity.gov and select “Questions about Medicare.” For information about the Medicare prescription drug coverage, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or log on to www.medicare.gov.

For additional assistance, call the Mississippi Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (MICAP), also know as the Mississippi State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), toll-free at 1-800-948-3090 or log on to www.hapnetwork.org/ship-locator/resources/mississippi.

Medicare Savings Programs

Benefit: Pays for some of the costs of Medicare, including the Part B premium, deductibles, and co-payments. How much you get depends on your income and assets.

Who can apply: People who get Medicare and earn around $1,269 per month for one person, or $1,690 per month for a married couple.

How to apply: Call toll-free at 1-866-635-1347 or contact your nearest Medicaid Regional Office. For a complete list of regional offices, log on to www.medicaid.ms.gov/RegionalOffices.aspx.

Medicare Rx Extra Help

Benefit: Pays for the monthly fee and deductible for Medicare prescription drug coverage, and lowers prescription drug
co-payments.

Who can apply: People who get Medicare and have combined savings, investments and real estate (other than your home) are
not worth more than $12,510 if you are single, or $25,010 if you are married and living with your spouse and have a limited
income.

How to apply: Call the Social Security Administration toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 and ask for the Medicare Rx Extra Help application. You can also log on to www.socialsecurity.gov and click on the Medicare section.

For additional assistance, call the Mississippi Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (MICAP), also known as the Mississippi State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), toll-free at 1-800-948-3090 or log on to www.hapnetwork.org/ship-locator/resources/mississippi.

Medicaid

Benefit: Provides medical coverage for hospital care, health center and clinical services, doctor care, nurse care, lab and X-ray services and nursing homes.

Who can apply: People who are 65 or older, blind or have disabilities, few resources, or in some cases, high medical bills. To qualify,
you must meet Medicaid income and asset limits. Income limits vary, depending on the size of your family and where you live. Income limits also vary based on the particular Medicaid program for which you qualify, so contact your state Medicaid office
for more information.

How to apply: Call 1-866-635-1347 or log on to www.medicaid.ms.gov/RegionalOffices.aspx to find the Medicaid Regional Office located nearest to you.

Help with Your Home

State Property Tax Assistance

Benefit: A state property tax exemption based on the assessed value of a property and limited to the first $7,500 of assessed value with an upper limit of $300 of actual exempted tax dollars.

Who can apply: The state offers a homestead exemption to all eligible taxpayers. People 65 and older may qualify for an additional exemption.

How to apply: Application must be submitted between January 1 and April 1 of the year in which the exemption is sought. The application must be filed with the tax assessor of the county in which the property is located. For more information, contact the Mississippi State Tax Commission at 601-923-7000 or log on to www.mstc.state.ms.us.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Programs

Benefit: Pays heating and cooling bills, and some energy-related home repairs.

Who can apply: Low-income people with annual incomes less than $15,600 for one person, or $21,000 for two people.

How to apply: For additional information call toll-free at 1-800-421-0762 or 1-800-345-6347 or log on to www.mdhs.state.ms.us/cs_info.html.

Telephone Assistance

Benefit: Helps pay for the cost of basic local telephone services.

Who can apply: Qualified low-income older adults. You are automatically eligible if you are in one of the following programs: Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Housing Assistance/Section 8 Programs, Food Stamps, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Programs, Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) General Assistance, and Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).

How to apply: Call your local phone company and tell the sales department that you want to apply for Link Up or Lifeline.

Help Buying Nutritious Food

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Benefit: An Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, similar to a debit card, that you can use like cash to pay for food at most grocery stores.

Who can apply: People with limited income and resources, especially people 60 and over.

How to apply: Contact the Mississippi Department of Human Services toll-free at 1-800-948-3050 or 601-359-4810. Or, log on to www.mdhs.state.ms.us/ea_fs.html.

Cash Assistance

Social Security

Benefit: Monthly checks. How much you get depends on how long you have worked, how much money you earned, where you worked, and your age when you began getting benefits.

Who can apply: Workers who are 62 or older, people with disabilities, or the spouse and children of a deceased or disabled worker who paid into the Social Security program.

How to apply: You can find out if you qualify for Social Security Benefits by using the screening tool on the Social Security website (www.socialsecurity.gov). If you qualify, you can apply for retirement benefits online at www.socialsecurity.gov. You can also make an appointment at your local Social Security Office. To find your local Social Security Office, call 1-800-772-1213 toll free and tell the operator where you live.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Benefit: Monthly checks.

Who can apply: People who are 65 and older, or people who are blind or have disabilities and have very low income and assets.

How to apply: You must make an appointment at your local Social Security office to apply. You can find your local Social Security office by calling 1-800-772-1213 toll free and telling the operator where you live. Or, you can log on to www.ssa.gov/pgm/links_ssi.htm.

Other Information

Eldercare Locator

Connects older Americans and their caregivers with sources of information on senior services. Call 1-800-677-1116 (hours of operation are Mon. – Fri., 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET) or log on to www.eldercare.gov.

Senior Information Hotline

For additional information about other programs and resources for older adults in Mississippi, call the Mississippi Division of Aging and Adult Services toll-free at 1-800-948-3090 or log on to www.mdhs.state.ms.us/aas.html.

Legal Help

If you need a lawyer but have limited resources, you can also call the Elder Law Hotline toll-free at 1-800-498-1804 or log on to www.mslegalservices.org.

You can also go to the Benefits QuickLINK website at www.aarp.org/quicklink.

Benefits Outreach Program
601 E Street, NW
Washington, DC 20049
1-888-OUR-AARP (1-888-687-2277)
Email: benefitsoutreach@aarp.org

The AARP Foundation is AARP’s affiliated charity. Foundation programs provide security, protection and empowerment for older persons in need. Low-income older workers receive the job training and placement they need to re-join the workforce. Free tax preparation is provided for low-and moderate-income individuals, with special attention to those 60 and older. The Foundation’s litigation staff protects the legal rights of older Americans in critical health, long-term care, consumer and employment situations. Additional programs provide information, education and services to ensure that people over 50 lead lives of independence, dignity and purpose. Foundation programs are funded by grants, tax-deductible contributions and AARP.

Your Guide to Public Benefits in Minnesota

Find, understand, and apply for programs in your state that can help:

• Increase your income,
• Save money on prescription drugs
• Pay doctors’ bills;
• Buy groceries; and
• Cover other basic costs.

This fact sheet describes the programs in your state, helps you decide which are right for you, and tells you how to sign up. Income guidelines, eligibility requirements, and telephone numbers are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information in your ZIP code area log on to www.aarp.org/quicklink.

You can also go to the Benefits QuickLINK website (www.aarp.org/quicklink) to find out if you qualify for the benefits listed below or to print out applications for programs in your state.

Paying for Health Care and Prescription Drugs

Medicare

Benefit: Health insurance that helps pay for preventive care, doctor visits, hospital stays
and prescription drugs.

Who can apply: People who are 65 and older, and younger people with disabilities
or kidney failure.

How to apply: Call the Social Security Administration toll-free at 1-800-772-1213
and tell the operator where you live. You can also log on to www.socialsecurity.gov and select “Questions about Medicare.” For information about the Medicare prescription drug coverage, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or log on to www.medicare.gov.

For additional assistance, call the Senior LinkAge Line, also known as the Minnesota State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), toll-free at 1-800-333-2433 or log on to www.mnaging.org/advisor/SLL.htm.

Medicare Savings Programs

Benefit: Pays for some of the costs of Medicare, including the Part B premium, deductibles, and co-payments. How much you get depends on your income and assets.

Who can apply: People who get Medicare and earn around $1,239 per month for one person, or $1,660 per month for a married couple.

How to apply: Apply at your county human services agency. Call toll-free at 1-800-657-3739 (outside Twin Cities metro area) or 651-431-2670 (in the Twin Cities metro area) to obtain an application or log on to www.dhs.state.mn.us. Applications are also available from many health care providers.

Medicare Rx Extra Help

Benefit: Pays for the monthly fee and deductible for Medicare prescription drug coverage, and lowers prescription drug
co-payments.

Who can apply: People who get Medicare and have combined savings, investments and real estate (other than your home) are
not worth more than $12,510 if you are single, or $25,010 if you are married and living with your spouse and have a limited
income.

How to apply: Call the Social Security Administration toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 and ask for the Medicare Rx Extra Help application. You can also log on to www.socialsecurity.gov and click on the Medicare section.

For additional assistance, call the Senior LinkAge Line, also known as the Minnesota tate Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), toll-free at 1-800-333-2433 or log on to www.mnaging.org/advisor/SLL.htm.

MinnesotaCare

Benefit: Subsidized health insurance coverage that provides a range of services including low-cost prescriptions.

Who can apply: Minnesota residents who do not have access to affordable health insurance including Medicaid or Medicare.

How to apply: Fill out a Minnesota Health Care Programs application and send it to MinnesotaCare in St. Paul. Some counties enroll people in MinnesotaCare. To find out if your county does, log on to www.dhs.state.mn.us and click on the “Health Care” tab and then “MinnesotaCare.” For more information, call 651-297-3862 (in the Twin Cities metro area) or 1-800-657-3672 (outside the Twin Cities metro area).

Medicaid

Benefit: Provides medical coverage for hospital care, health center and clinical services, doctor care, nurse care, lab and X-ray services and nursing homes.

Who can apply: People who are 65 or older, blind or have disabilities, few resources, or in some cases, high medical bills. To qualify,
you must meet Medicaid income and asset limits. Income limits vary, depending on the size of your family and where you live. Income limits also vary based on the particular Medicaid program for which you qualify, so contact your state Medicaid office
for more information.

How to apply: For more information or to apply, call 651-431-2670 (in the Twin Cities metro area) or 1-800-657-3739 (outside the Twin Cities metro area) or log on to www.dhs.state.mn.us and click on “Health Care.” Applications are also available from many health care providers.

Help with Your Home

State Property Tax Assistance

Benefit: Minnesota’s tax deferral program allows people 65 or older to defer a portion of their homestead property taxes. The deferral begins with real estate taxes payable the year after you make the initial application.

Who can apply: To qualify, you must meet all of the following requirements: you must be 65 or older and own and occupy the property as a homestead; if you’re married, your spouse must also be at least 65 when the first deferral is granted; and you must meet additional income requirements and filing deadlines.

How to apply: You must apply by July 1 in order for your taxes to be deferred the following year. You may apply in the year in which you turn 65. Once enrolled in the program, you don’t need to reapply. If you need help completing the application Form (CR-SCD), which is available online at www.taxes.state.mn.us/taxes, call 651-296-0333.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Programs

Benefit: Pays heating and cooling bills, and some energy-related home repairs.

Who can apply: Low-income people with annual incomes less than $21,184 for one person, or $27,702 for two people.

How to apply: For additional information or application assistance call tollfree at 1-800-657-3710 or log on to www.state.mn.us and earch on “Energy Assistance.”

Telephone Assistance

Benefit: Helps pay for the cost of basic local telephone services.

Who can apply: Qualified low-income older adults. You are automatically eligible if you are in one of the following programs: Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Housing Assistance/Section 8 Programs, Food Stamps, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Programs, Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) General Assistance, and Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).

How to apply: Call your local phone company and tell the sales department that you want to apply for Link Up or Lifeline.

Help Buying Nutritious Food

Food Assistance

Benefit: An Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, similar to a debit card, that you can use like cash to pay for food at most grocery stores.

Who can apply: People with limited income and resources, especially people 60 and over.

How to apply: For more information or to fill out an application go to www.dhs.state.mn.us and click on “Economic Supports” and “Food Support.” You can also go to your county Human Services Agency or call the Food Support Hotline toll-free at 1-800-657-3698.

Cash Assistance

Social Security

Benefit: Monthly checks. How much you get depends on how long you have worked, how much money you earned, where you worked, and your age when you began getting benefits.

Who can apply: Workers who are 62 or older, people with disabilities, or the spouse and children of a deceased or disabled worker who paid into the Social Security program.

How to apply: You can find out if you qualify for Social Security Benefits by using the screening tool on the Social Security website (www.socialsecurity.gov). If you qualify, you can apply for retirement benefits online at www.socialsecurity.gov. You can also make an appointment at your local Social Security Office. To find your local Social Security Office, call 1-800-772-1213 toll free and tell the operator where you live.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Benefit: Monthly checks.

Who can apply: People who are 65 and older, or people who are blind or have disabilities and have very low income and assets.

How to apply: You must make an appointment at your local Social Security office to apply. You can find your local Social Security office by calling 1-800-772-1213 toll free and telling the operator where you live. Or, you can log on to www.ssa.gov/pgm/links_ssi.htm.

Other Information

Eldercare Locator

Connects older Americans and their caregivers with sources of information on senior services. Call 1-800-677-1116 (hours of operation are Mon. – Fri., 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET) or log on to www.eldercare.gov.

Senior Information Hotline

For additional information about other programs and resources for older adults in Minnesota, call the Minnesota Board on Aging at 1-800-882-6262 or log on to www.mnaging.org.

Legal Help

If you need a lawyer but have limited resources, call the Senior Citizens Law Project Hotline toll-free at 1-800-622-7266 or log on to www.lasnem.org.

You can also go to the Benefits QuickLINK website at www.aarp.org/quicklink.

Benefits Outreach Program
601 E Street, NW
Washington, DC 20049
1-888-OUR-AARP (1-888-687-2277)
Email: benefitsoutreach@aarp.org

The AARP Foundation is AARP’s affiliated charity. Foundation programs provide security, protection and empowerment for older persons in need. Low-income older workers receive the job training and placement they need to re-join the workforce. Free tax preparation is provided for low-and moderate-income individuals, with special attention to those 60 and older. The Foundation’s litigation staff protects the legal rights of older Americans in critical health, long-term care, consumer and employment situations. Additional programs provide information, education and services to ensure that people over 50 lead lives of independence, dignity and purpose. Foundation programs are funded by grants, tax-deductible contributions and AARP.