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Financial & Employment Assistance
- Social Security Administration
- Medicare
- Medicare Supplement Insurance
- Supplemental Security Income
- Go Direct
- Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC)
- Medicaid
- Home Energy Assistance Program
- Real Property Tax Exemptions
- Tax Preparation Assistance
- Medic Alert
- HempsteadWorks Career Center
- New York State Department of Labor / Community Service Employment Program
- Home Improvement Aid
Workers 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. An application can be made as early as age 62, but the monthly payments will be reduced.
Medicare 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 inpatient 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, outpatient 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 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.
The 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.
Direct 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 visit Direct Deposit, or call the toll-free helpline at 800-333-1795, Monday through Friday, 8 am to 8 pm.
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 EPIC at 800-332-3742 or via email.
Senior 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 on your ability to pay for essential medical care.
The 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 the HEAP Program.
If you are a homeowner, 65 or over, you may be eligible for certain property tax exemptions, depending on your income and resources.
The Department of Senior Enrichment, in cooperation with the IRS, trains volunteers to assist seniors with the 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.
This 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.
Job counseling, training, and placement services are available for eligible participants. For more information contact:
Department of Occupational Resources (DOOR)
50 Clinton Street
Hempstead, NY 11550
You may also call 516-485-5000 or 800-662-1220.
Local offices offer various services to seniors including job counseling, job placement, training and resume assistance.
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 and Economic Development
200 North Franklin Street
Hempstead, NY 11550
You may also call 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.