When I reviewed the readership of these senior citizen columns over the past several years, I found that those that were read the most frequently were those that provided information on how to save money.
It seems everyone, especially senior citizens, could use a reminder of ways in which they could save. Some of us know better than to depend on something that may never happen, like the economic stimulus proposal or winning the lottery.
We’ve heard from many who have taken advantage of some of the following programs and others who wanted to know who they could call. Your Southern Maine Agency on Aging covers both Cumberland and York counties. The office is in Scarborough and you can call toll free, 207-396-6500 or 1-800-427-7411 for more information on Meals on Wheels, Senior Dining Centers or to have your name added to a free quarterly newsletter full of news for seniors.
You may also want to review the following benefits that are available. Remember, the latest figures we have are from August 2008. Check with Southern Maine Agency to find out if these are updated.
Read these carefully and note that the first figure given is for a person living alone. The number in parentheses () is for a couple. If these statements apply to you, call SMAA and find out how to apply.
My monthly income is less than $1,603 ($2,158) and I am 62 or am disabled – You are probably eligible for the Low Cost Drug Program.
My monthly income is less than $1,404 ($1,883) and I am at least age 60. I have less than $3,000 in cash assets – You may be eligible for food stamps.
My monthly income is less than $1,473 ($1,983) and I am at least age 60 – You may be eligible for Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Income limit can be increased by adding out-of-pocket medical costs.
My monthly income is less than $1,678 ($2,258 ) and I am enrolled in Medicare. You may be eligible for Qualified Individual-1 (QI-1) or, if less than $1,548 ($2,083) Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB).
My monthly income is less than $1,375 ($2,083) and I am enrolled in Medicare. You may be eligible for Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB).
My monthly income is less than $942 ($1,267) and I am at least age 65 or am disabled. I have less than $10,000 in cash ($15,000) and interest-bearing bank accounts – You may be eligible for MaineCare.
My monthly income is less than $637 ($956) and I am at least age 65 or am disabled and have less than $2,000 in cash ($3,000) and interest-bearing accounts – You may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
My monthly income is less than $1,300, ($1,750) I receive Social Security and Medicare, and I have assets below $11,990 ($23,970) – You may be eligible for Social Security extra help in paying for prescriptions, a benefit program for those receiving MaineCare.
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