News
Surge of Eldercare Locator Calls Triggered by COLA Letter
- By: USAging
- On: 11/15/2016 16:51:00
- In: Policy & Advocacy
Last week, the Social Security Administration's (SSA) annual Cost of Living Adjustment or COLA letter landed in mailboxes nationwide, triggering a surge in calls to the Eldercare Locator.
According to Eldercare Locator Director Patrice Earnest, they were prepared for the spike in calls because the Locator is listed as a resource in the SSA letter. Although many of the calls involved questions about individual social security benefits, which were referred back to SSA, there were also many inquiries about other federal programs, including Low-Income Subsidy (LIS)/Extra Help prescription assistance, Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
Many of the callers were sent n4a's “You Gave, Now Save Guide to Benefits for Seniors,” a popular brochure that provides details about how older adults can apply for a wide range of federal benefits. Many AAAs that have ordered the brochure say it's a terrific tool for agency staff involved in counseling clients about the wide range of federal benefits they are eligible for. Research shows that billions of dollars are left on the table by seniors who are simply unaware that they are entitled to these valuable benefits.
If you haven't already ordered a supply of the “Benefits Guide,” we encourage you to place your order while supplies last.