Our debt counselors know that retirement can be a stressful time financially. Expenses, like healthcare costs, continue to increase, but unfortunately your money does not. However, there are plenty of both private and government-sanctioned programs that enable seniors to stretch their savings.
To save money and to try to avoid debt, use our tips for seniors.
How Seniors Can Save Money
- Get the most out of Medicare. Many Medicare savings programs are available to seniors. These include Qualified Medicare Beneficiary, Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary, Qualifying Individual, and Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals. These programs can pay for medical and hospital insurance, as well as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
- Help with home health aide services. The elderly can qualify for home health aide services through state and federal programs. Veterans may be entitled to the housebound federal benefit. This benefit funds care in the home or in that of a family member. Non-veterans might receive help from Medicare with a doctor’s note confirming that they do require home care and aren’t able to leave their residence to get it. Your individual state may also cover the costs; check out seniorliving.org for a list of individual agencies. Also, if you’re considering senior living communities, learn how to evaluate senior living communities before you invest.
- Get your taxes prepared for free. The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program is a volunteer program that provides help to low and moderate-income seniors. Qualified volunteers prepare seniors’ taxes for free. You do not need to have a AARP membership to be eligible.
- Call Meals on Wheels. Meals on Wheels provides nutritious meals to seniors nationwide on a sliding cost scale. Funded by the federal Older Americans Act and community support, this program also provides seniors with a wellness and safety check and some companionship through a friendly visit.
In addition to the said programs, seniors can also save money by applying senior discounts to qualifying purchases from most businesses. Research other ideas and programs by contacting legitimate nonprofit organizations and your local elderly commission.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
