About $58 billion in public benefits is available to people in Colorado to help cover basic expenses but many eligible residents are not using them.

According to the latest data published by the National Council on Aging and the Urban Institute, more than 160,000 Coloradans are eligible for, but not enrolled in, at least one of three key federal assistance programs.

Jessica Johnston, senior strategist for economic well-being for the council, pointed to the Medicare Savings Program, which can help pay for insurance premiums.

“Healthcare is one of the largest expenses for older adults, and so having some extra help to pay for healthcare is a really critical benefit, and we encourage people to apply for these Medicare Savings Programs,” Johnston said.

More than 100,000 Coloradans could be getting help through the Medicare Savings Program. About 46,000 could be receiving Supplemental Security Income, which provides extra cash each month for qualifying seniors. And 160,000 qualify for but are not enrolled in SNAP food assistance.

Image

The average monthly benefit for the three programs combined adds up to just over $900.

Older adults are the only demographic in the nation that saw a rise in poverty over the last several years. Johnston added many people do not know the programs exist, while others incorrectly assume they will not qualify.

She acknowledged stigma around asking for help also remains a major barrier.

“There are many older adults who often say, ‘I think there’s probably someone who needs it more than I do,’” Johnston observed. “These benefits are part of tax dollars that you have paid for. This is a system that you have paid into.”

Applications for federal programs can be confusing and burdensome, especially for people managing health conditions, caregiving responsibilities or limited internet access.

Johnston noted people who need help applying, or know someone who does, can call toll-free at 800-794-6559.

“We have people across the country who can help older adults navigate these often very complex benefit programs,” Johnston explained. “They’re not alone, they don’t have to do this all online by themselves.”