A Benefits Specialist is an individual who has completed specialized training in public benefits and work incentives. The counseling process begins by meeting with a benefits specialist to discuss your current benefits, entitlements, services, and subsides. Benefits may include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medical Assistance, Medicare, FoodShare, and Housing Assistance.

The benefits specialist will verify all information with the administering agencies, and determine how working will impact benefits and overall income. You will then meet with your benefits specialist to discuss the information and receive a written report for your records.

Your benefits specialist will be available for follow up questions and assistance as your work or life situation changes. Benefits specialists stay up-to-date on program rules, annual income limits, and any additional regulations that apply to the programs in which you are enrolled.