SHIP is a free counseling service provided by the Illinois Department of Aging. SHIP Counselors do not sell or solicit insurance, but rather provide Medicare beneficiaries and their family members with information so that they can make informed decisions about their Medicare benefits. SHIP Counselors can answer questions about the following:
Medicare, Medicare Supplemental Insurance (Medigap), Medicare Advantage Plans (HMOs, PPOs, PFFS), prescription drug coverage, Medicare Assistance Programs (Medicare Savings Program and Extra Help from Social Security for prescription drug costs), Medicaid, Medicare claims and appeals, and beneficiary rights and guarantees. The SSP I & A Department offers this service by appointment only at both of our location. We have three full-time SHIP Counselors who can assist with your Medicare questions.
https://www2.illinois.gov/aging/ship/Pages/default.aspxor
1-800-252-8966
Illinois Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps low income households with heating costs. Eligibility depends on household size and income. The I & A Department at SSP accepts LIHEAP applications for seniors 60+ living in Madison or St. Clair Counties who meet certain income guidelines.
https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/CommunityServices/HomeWeatherization/CommunityActionAgencies/Pages/default.aspx 
This program provides a Secretary of State license plate discount and a ride free transit benefit (free bus pass) to qualifying individuals. To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
You must be 65 years or older by December 31 of the current year or 16 - 64 years of age and totally disabled before January 1 of this year.
Your income must be less than:
1 person household- $33,562
2 person household- $44,533
3 person household- $55,500
More information about the Benefit Access Program and the online application can be found here:
https://webapps.illinois.gov/AGE/BAA/Welcome.aspxLong-term care options, comprehensive needs assessments, and connection to benefit programs are provided through a person-centered planning approach.
