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1. Is it possible to see a social security agent on Nantucket?

Not at this time as their funding for travel was eliminated except for one time in either May or June of each year.The Social Security Administration (SSA) suspended all of their representatives from traveling to out-of-office locations in January 2011. No further dates will be scheduled for Nantucket. They request you call ahead and make an appointment before going to Hyannis. Their phone number is 866-467-0440. To document need we will ask to record what type of service you require. Please let us record your name, phone number and reason for being seen so we can document your request.

In the meant time, should you not need to see an agent, please visit the SSA website.

2. Can I get social security forms and assistance on the Internet?

Yes, visit the Social Security Administration website.

3. What is SHINE?

SHINE stands for Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders. This program provides free health insurance information, assistance, and counseling to Medicare beneficiaries of all ages and their care givers. The Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs supports the SHINE program in partnership with elder service agencies and Councils on Aging.

SHINE is partially funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The SHINE Program ensures that healthcare consumers have a competent, committed, and compassionate consumer-focused network of staff and volunteers who provide accurate and objective information through innovative community programs at the state and local levels.

4. What do SHINE counselors do?

Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders (SHINE) counselors are dedicated community volunteers who are trained and certified by the Executive Office of Elder Affairs to explain many areas of health insurance including Medicare, Medigap, Medicare HMO's, prescription drug programs, MassHealth (Medicaid), and other health care assistance programs.

SHINE counselors help seniors and all Medicare beneficiaries understand their rights and benefits under Medicare and their other health insurance coverage. Counselors also review present coverage, provide written benefits comparisons, prevent consumers from buying unnecessary or duplicate coverage, and help prepare health benefit claim forms, appeals, and applications.

All information is kept strictly confidential. If you have questions concerning health insurance, Medicare, Medigap, Medicaid, etc., call the Saltmarsh Center office and make an appointment to meet with our SHINE counselor at 508-228-4490.

5. How do I reach the Department of Public Welfare or Department of Transitional Assistance office?

The Department of Public Welfare offices administers programs to persons needing cash assistance, emergency assistance, food, and medical assistance forms including:

• Emergency assistance for the elderly
• Food stamps
• Housing services
• Shelter

The local offices of the Department of Transitional Assistance, J-Tech, and Career Opportunities for Change can be reached at 508-228-0470 or 877-626-6800, and are all located in Hyannis at:
77 High School Road
Hyannis, MA 02601

6. How do I apply for unemployment?

Nantucket is served by the Massachusetts One-Stop Career Center.

You can call 508-771-5627 or 508-771-(JOBS) or visit their website. They offer two ways to file for unemployment insurance (UI Claim), call the UI Teleclaim Center at 877-626-6800 or visit the Career Opportunities Office and file your claim in person. Unemployment insurance services walk-in hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to Noon and the 1 to 3 p.m.