Health Insurance and Benefits Counseling

For more information on the following programs please use the contact information below or click on the "Email" button to send a message electronically to a Services for the Aging Specialist.

Clinton County Office for the Aging 
135 Margaret Street, Suite 105 
Plattsburgh, NY 12901-2966 

Phone: (518) 565-4620 
Fax: (518) 565-4812

Email

Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC)

EPIC is a New York State sponsored prescription program for senior citizens who need help paying for their prescriptions. EPIC works with Medicare Part D as a secondary payer. New York State residents can apply if they are 65 or older, and have an annual income of $75,000 or less if single, or $100,000 or less if married. Seniors should make sure their Medicare Part D plan covers their prescription drugs, since EPIC will not pay primary for most medications. Seniors who have retiree benefits should call their benefits department to find out if they qualify for Part D. You can apply at any time during the year. Call 1-800-332-3742 or go on-line.

Visit EPIC website

Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP)

This program is designed to assist older New York State residents acquire unbiased information about health insurance options. HIICAP works directly with Medicare Beneficiaries to educate them about the Medicare Program, Medigap policies, Medicaid, Medicare Advantage Plans, Long-term Care Insurance, Low-Income Subsidy Programs, employer-sponsored insurance, and other health insurance programs that are available in New York State.

Trained HIICAP counselors located in the Clinton County Office for the Aging are available to answer your questions and help you access benefits.A HIICAP Counselor may be able to come to your home if you are unable to visit the Office for the Aging. Call JCEO’s Senior Outreach Program at 561-6310

Visit HIICAP website

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

The Home Energy Assistance Program provides direct payment toward heating bills for low-income individuals and families. It is administered by local social services departments for people under 60 and individuals who receive Food Stamps. The local Offices for the Aging serves people age 60 and over. You can begin applying for HEAP benefits in November each year. HEAP provides grants on a first come first serve basis until the funds provided for each heating season run out.

If you received HEAP through the Office for the Aging one year, an application will be sent to you automatically for the following year. If you believe that you may be eligible, an application can be sent to you upon request.

We are happy to answer any questions you may have about the program or about filling out your application. A Senior Outreach Worker may be able to come to your home to assist you if you are unable to visit the Office for the Aging. Call JCEO’s Senior Outreach Program at 561-6310.

Home repairs and weatherization may be available to those who qualify for HEAP. See link for Home Repairs and Weatherization. Emergency services are available for families in no-heat situations.

Visit HEAP website

Life Line Telephone Discount

Individuals who are eligible for Medicaid, Home Relief, Food Stamps, SSI, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), HEAP or disabled veterans may also be eligible for telephone reductions.

Individuals living in Public Housing can now receive the LifeLine telephone discount even if they are not HEAP eligible, if their income falls within the HEAP guidelines.