Retirement is a life-altering experience. It can be both relaxing and energizing for some older adults. However, it shouldn’t be stressful.
The United States can be expensive and even the most financially savvy senior may feel deprived in areas such housing and healthcare. Many are finding it more difficult to live with COVID-19.
Many Americans over 60 who work hard their whole lives do not know that they can receive a range private and public benefits to pay for food and medicine. These benefits will help ensure a stable and secure retirement. Each year $30 billion in benefits goes unclaimed due to the fact that eligible older adults aren’t aware of these programs or how they can apply.
These programs are not frauds and they do not provide loans. They are genuine public and private funds, designed to assist older adults with their budgeting.
The National Council on Aging is the oldest and most respected nonprofit in the country that works for seniors. It offers information on all benefits programs on its secure website. BenefitsCheckUp.org.
It also includes a search tool to assist retirees and caregivers in finding programs that might meet their financial goals. Benefits include assistance with paying for medications and other healthcare costs, including home and nursing home care, as well as food and housing and utilities.
A $200-$300 per month increase in income can make a big difference in quality of life and standard of living for those who have a fixed income.
Half of all Medicare beneficiaries have incomes below $26,200 per year. Medicare’s special programs could save you thousands of dollars every year on your premiums, medication, deductibles, co-pays, and other expenses.
BenefitsCheckUp.orgInformation on volunteer and employment programs, programs for veterans and property tax relief, travel, recreation, and support for caregivers is also included.
NCOA has launched a campaign called Boost Your Budget Week: Discover Your Benefits to Age Well. This educational campaign aims to raise awareness about these important benefits. This week is scheduled for July and will allow older adults to discover how they can increase their income with benefits.
Seniors who are interested in visiting can do so ncoa.org/BoostTo get their BenefitsCheckUp, click here. For assistance in-person, they can connect to one of NCOA’s local community groups across the country. Find partners on ncoa.org/Map.
