August 2008


 

 

  As members of “The Sandwich Generation” (caring for our parent(s), as well as children of varying ages), The Eldercare Locator is a public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging. It is the first step to finding resources for older adults in any U.S. community.

Just one phone call or Website visit provides an instant connection to resources that enable older persons to live independently in their communities. The service links those who need assistance with state and local area agencies on aging and community-based organizations that serve older adults and their caregivers.

You may speak to an Eldercare Locator information specialist by calling toll-free at 1-800-677-1116 weekdays, 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (ET). Spanish-speaking Information Specialists are on duty.
Great resource!
~Joan Jackson, Publisher, The Baby Boomer Resource Center.com

 

 

The Social Security Administration has come out with a new Retirement Estimator Tool .  As we are approaching that magical Social Security age of 62,  we wonder about the best age to start collecting full benefits from them. 

This tool enables us pre-retirees to figure out monthly benefit estimates that are based on your retirement age, and future annual earnings.  You can compare various retirement scenerios too.  Spousal benefits, however, are not calculated.

It’s a simple-to-use tool.  Go to www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator to try it out.

~Joan Jackson, Publisher, The Baby Boomer Resource Center.com

Boomer personal finance issues wouldn’t be complete without touching upon the subject of reverse mortgages.

The oldest of our league (born in 1946) turns 62 this year (2008). This is the earliest that you can apply for a reverse mortgage. Not only do boomers consider this choice on or before their retirement, but their parents do as well! It’s wise to get as much credible information as possible. AARP’s section on Reverse Mortgages is chocked full of information on reverse mortgages, starting with the basics.

Well worth keeping as a great bookmark in your “Reverse Mortgage Information” online folder!

~Joan Jackson, Publisher, The Baby Boomer Resource Center.com

I just received this great post from a wonderful site called, Feedthepig.org:

New GI Bill Signed Into Law

If you are an Active Duty Service Member or a veteran of the U.S. armed forces, you may be eligible for benefits from the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 signed into law on June 30, 2008. The bill contains the most comprehensive education benefits package since the original GI Bill was signed into law in 1944. Benefits include:

• 13 weeks of emergency unemployment compensation.

• Tutorial assistance benefits, reimbursement for licensing and certification tests and on-the-job training.

• Benefits will be payable for up to 36 months for education or training pursued on or after August 1, 2009.

• Veterans may also receive a monthly stipend for books and supplies of up to $1,000 per year and a monthly housing allowance.

Utilizing government benefits like these can greatly boost your savings. Click here for eligibility requirements and additional benefits of the new GI bill. Read more on the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008. Learn more about financial literacy resources for Military & Reserves.

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips.

~Joan Jackson, Publisher, The Baby Boomer Resource Center.com