Financial & Employment Assistance
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| April 22, 2011 | |||||||||||||||
Social Security AdministrationWORKERS BENEFITS: An individual, 65 years of age, who has worked a sufficient time under Social Security, is entitled to Social Security retirement benefits. Benefits may be applied for as early as age 62, but the monthly payments will be reduced. Write or telephone the local Social Security office for instructions concerning filing a claim at least three months before the age of 62 or 65. Individuals who are disabled before age 65 may apply for Social Security disability benefits. SPOUSE BENEFITS: The spouse of a person receiving Social Security benefits is entitled to benefits even if he or she has never worked. Application can be made as early as age 62, but the monthly payments will be reduced.
MedicareMedicare is a federal health insurance program for people 65 or over, and some people under 65 who are disabled. To enroll, telephone the Social Security office three months before your 65th birthday. Persons who work past age 65 should also apply for Medicare, which has two parts: HOSPITAL (Part A) insurance helps pay for in-patient hospital care, medically necessary in-patient care in a skilled nursing facility after a hospital stay, home health care, hospice care and certain follow-up care after you leave the hospital. MEDICAL (Part B) insurance helps pay for your doctor's services out-patient hospital care, out-patient physical therapy and speech pathology services, home health care and many other health services and supplies which are not covered by medicare hospital insurance. Medicare Supplement InsuranceMedicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap Insurance) is designed to help cover the deductible and co-payment gaps in Medicare coverage. Federal and State regulations have established minimum standards for insurance companies offering Medigap insurance. The Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) publishes the Guide to Health Insurance for People with Medicare. A copy may be obtained at local Social Security offices, or by calling (800) 772-1213. Supplemental Security IncomeThe Social Security Administration administers Supplemental Security Income, a program of financial aid to persons 65 or over and to the blind or disabled who are in need of financial assistance. A senior citizen may be eligible for both Social Security programs, yet the benefits will be different. Income and resource eligibility levels must be met at the time a claim is filed. Seniors may apply over the telephone regarding eligibility, allotments and application. Go DirectDirect deposit is simply the best way to receive Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments. Direct deposit eliminates the risk of lost or stolen checks, reduces fraud, helps protect against identity theft and gives people more control over their money. Plus, direct deposit provides people with immediate access to their money from virtually everywhere. Go Direct makes it easy for people who get Social Security and SSI to sign up for Direct Deposit. To sign up for Direct Deposit, call the toll-free helpline at (800) 333-1795, Monday through Friday, 8 AMN to 8 PM or visit GoDirect.org. Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC)Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage, the New York State Prescription Plan is for seniors 65 or older who have high drug bills and meet eligibility requirements. For more information call the Dept. of Senior Enrichment at (516) 485-8100 or EPIC at (800) 332-3742.
EPIC MedicaidSenior citizens, 60 years or over, may receive Medicaid, depending on income and resources. If you are eligible for Social Security Insurance, then you will also receive Medicaid. Administered by the New York State Department of Social Services, it is based upon your ability to pay for essential medical care.
Nassau County Department of Social Services Home Energy Assistance ProgramThe Home Energy Assistance Program provides a once-a-year benefit to low income homeowners and renters to help pay for fuel or utility costs. Persons age 60 or over, or on Social Security Insurance, can apply by mail. For information on income eligibility level and application procedure contact:
HEAP Program Real Property Tax ExemptionsIf you are a homeowner, 65 or over, you may be eligible for certain property tax exemptions, depending on your income and resources.
Nassau County Board of Assessors Circuit Breaker Tax RefundIf income meets guidelines, seniors can apply for the Circuit Breaker New York State tax refund. Seniors who are homeowners or renters may apply and may not be required to file an income tax form. For more information call Hempstead Town's Senior Information & Referral Department at (516) 485-8100. Tax Preparation AssistanceThe Department of Senior Enrichment, in cooperation with the IRS, trains volunteers to assist seniors with preparation of federal and state income tax returns. Volunteers are assigned to local public libraries and senior citizen centers during the tax season. To become a volunteer or to receive tax preparation assistance, contact the Department of Senior Enrichment at (516) 485-8100. For more information see Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA). Medic AlertThis worldwide emergency service speeds treatment and saves lives. A wrist or neck emblem custom engraved with medical details, an ID number and the 24-hour hotline number to access medical records and emergency contacts are provided. Call (800) 432-5378 for information. HempsteadWorks Career CenterJob counseling, training and placement services are available for eligible participants. For information contact:
Department of Occupational Resources (DOOR) NY State Dept. of Labor /
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| Hempstead | 50 Clinton Street | (516) 485-5000 |
| Hicksville | 301 Old Country Road | (516) 934-8517 |
Home Improvement Aid
The Town of Hempstead's Senior Citizen Home Improvement Program provides interest-free loans of up to $15,000 to qualified senior citizens homeowners to assist with weatherization, exterior improvements, windows, door and/or roof replacement and emergency repairs to their home. For information and assistance contact:
Department of Planning & Economic Development
200 North Franklin Street
Hempstead, NY 11550
(516) 538-7100 Ext. 355
If you reside in an incorporated village you must apply for this program through your village administration. Seniors in the Village of Valley Stream should apply to the Town of Hempstead.
