Disability Benefit Specialist (DBS)

Living with a disability or caregiving can bring unique challenges that others may not understand—complicated forms, questions, and the struggle to know where to begin. Our DBS provides free unbiased information and assists individuals ages 17.5 - 59 with physical disabilities, developmental disabilities, mental illness, and substance use disorders. 

Free Services:

• Provides accurate information about benefits and programs
• Helps with applications for benefits and services
• Supports in obtaining or retaining benefits
• Referrals and guidance on disability rights and the impact of earnings on eligibility
• Assists with formal appeals related to eligibility, termination, or overpayment of benefits
• Guides you with the Social Security Disability process
• Advocates for and with you to secure benefits and overpayment appeals
• Helps you compare Medicare plans and options
• Estimates which programs you may qualify for (Benefit Check Up)
• Identifies resources that may be able to help (Resource Guide)

Programs a DBS Can Help With:

• Medicaid (Medical Assistance)
• Medicare
• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Insurance and Prescription Drug Assistance
• FoodShare
• Housing and Utility Issues

State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) Counseling

SHIP Counselors provide one-on-one, confidential Medicare guidance based on your needs. The DBS is trained, screened, and certified. For in-person SHIP counseling, there's only one place to go in Chippewa County; our ADRC (but there's other SHIP Counselors available via phone). Please visit our Medicare webpage for more information.