National Center for Benefits Outreach Enrollment

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, through the Administration for Community Living (ACL), is offering a funding opportunity titled “National Center for Benefits Outreach & Enrollment” under the funding number HHS-2025-ACL-CIP-MINC-0022. This initiative is administered by the Center for Innovation and Partnership and aims to support the National Center for Benefits Outreach and Enrollment, which plays a crucial role in assisting older adults and individuals with disabilities in accessing essential federal and state benefit programs. The Center is authorized under the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) and is expected to help reduce disparities in access to healthcare and preventative services among Medicare beneficiaries with the greatest economic need. The Center provides vital education and support for states, territories, Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), Aging and Disability Resource Centers/No Wrong Door Systems (ADRC/NWD), State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), tribes, and other community-based organizations. Key statutory responsibilities include maintaining web-based decision support tools, utilizing cost-effective outreach strategies, developing a clearinghouse of best practices, supporting Benefits Enrollment Centers (BECs), and offering training and technical assistance. The overarching goal is to close enrollment gaps in programs such as Medicare Part D Low-Income Subsidy, Medicare Savings Programs, and Medicare Preventive Services, thereby improving health outcomes and reducing out-of-pocket expenses for low-income enrollees. The anticipated funding for this cooperative agreement is up to $15,000,000 per year over a three-year project period, with one award expected. ACL will be substantially involved in the award’s administration. Activities not eligible for funding include construction, basic research, or continuations of existing projects without significant innovation. Applications must demonstrate a

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