Q&A with a JFS disability benefits counseling client

Last month, we shared article about our new benefits counseling services, and how we offer a personalized approach to helping individuals with disabilities who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) navigate government-funded programs. 

Our disabilities counseling services helps clients like Mark. We sat down with Mark and his sister to learn more. 

Q:  What brought you to JFS and when? 

A:  My brother Mark was unemployed in 2021, and we contacted JFS for job coaching. I was so impressed with how quickly they were able to assess what kind of work he liked, what he was good at, and then found a good match. 

Q:  How has JFS helped your family? 

A:  JFS has provided compassionate, comprehensive support for Mark. They have kept us informed of other programs or opportunities that would benefit him. Mark attended computer classes that were offered, and recently he enrolled in their day program, Arts and Community Exploration, for once-a-week activities. 

Q:  How has benefits counseling helped your family? 
A:  We initially met with our benefits counselor, Chloe, and she reviewed Mark's benefits, his waiver, salary, etc. At that meeting, I learned that Mark was on SSDI rather than SSI. She helped explain the difference and how it affects Mark's earnings. She was so kind and patient with Mark, making sure he understood what we were talking about. 

During our second meeting, we discussed Mark’s retirement goals and how much he would have to save to meet that goal. He proudly tells everyone about his plan. 

A couple of months later, Chloe informed us that she saw a letter from Social Security, stating that there may have been an error in reported earnings that could potentially require Mark to pay money back to Social Security. Chloe called a meeting with Tony, me, and the financial staff from the agency that supports Tony, and she explained what needed to be done to correct this problem. Then, she contacted Social Security, filled out needed paperwork, and rectified the problem, even though it wasn't her job. 
I truly believe if Chloe had not seen the initial letter from Social Security and acted on it, Mark would be paying back a substantial amount of money. 

Q:  What would you like readers to know about JFS? 
A:  I have worked in the IDD community for most of my life, so I am very aware of the various programs in the community and have interacted with many of them. I am really sorry I didn't know much about JFS until 2021. From the minute we met with their staff until today, we have received exceptional services for my brother. From job coaching to benefits counseling to his recent engagement with the day program, everyone has been so professional and kind. They immediately return emails or texts and keep us informed of new programs or services. 

Mark often speaks very positively about the JFS staff who he presently works with and those from the past. In Mark's 60 years in the system, I don't think I've ever been happier with an agency. 

Learn more about our disability benefits counseling services, including eligibility and when to seek a qualified benefits counselor’s assistance.