Benefits Counseling
The potential loss of benefits is a common fear among people with disabilities who are considering employment. The benefits analysis process helps a person become aware of the effect of work on benefits. It enables them to make informed decisions about working, avoid overpayments, understand changes in benefits, maintain health coverage, and know and use the appropriate work incentives.

Identify & Verify
A benefits counselor initially works with a person to identify and verify his/her benefits. This process includes analyses of benefits available through counties, state of Wisconsin, Federal, and private sources.

Analyze, Assist & Assess
The Benefits Specialist analyzes all the information, meets and discusses the analysis with the person, and summarizes all the information in a written report.

The fee for benefits analysis is funded through Division of Vocation of Rehabilitation, Family Care, and through a grant from the state of Wisconsin. Benefits analysis is also included as part of the service provided in Vocational Futures Planning.

Benefits counseling means something different to each individual. It can range from a quick question and answer over the telephone to an in-depth analysis of the person's current benefits and how working at any level would affect those benefits. Benefits reviewed may include

Each report is very specific to the individual and their situation. The Benefit Specialist can provide an all-inclusive explanation of how earned income impacts the benefits and services a person receives.

We are also very knowledgeable about work incentives related to the Social Security programs. Through benefits analysis, we are able to show a person how these work incentives apply to his/her specific situation. With this information, individuals can make informed decisions about their benefits and employment.

Independent Living Resources also gets very involved with individuals during Social Security's application process. Staff can assist people with filling out forms, gathering information and understanding the process.

Benefits Advocacy Services
When people apply for benefits and are denied, we are often asked to assist with the appeals process which consists of helping to file the correct paperwork in a timely manner, gathering medical documentation, helping to determine work history and actually advocating

For more information please contact your local Social Security office or call Independent Living Resources at (608)787-1111 or toll free at (888)474-5745.
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