P RIMETIME Financial LIVI NG YOU R B E ST I N TH E P R I M E OF YOU R LI F E
R H O D Y B E AT. C O M
your
money
Planning
Helping seniors, spouses secure their financial future by daniel kittredGe
Financial planning can be a daunting prospect for people of any age. For older people and senior citizens, it often proves particularly challenging. From navigating investments to estate and retirement planning, there are a host of issues to consider – and, increasingly, potential pitfalls of which to be aware. That’s where legal and financial professionals come into the picture, providing expertise and guidance to individuals, couples and families as members of the community enter their golden years. “We have such a big senior demographic in Rhode Island … There’s such a demand, and it’s such an important part of the law,” said elderl law attorney Laura M. Krohn, who is based in South Kingstown and has a satellite office in Warwick. Mary Quackenbush, an investment professional with Coventry-based Victor Moffitt & Associates LLC, agreed that communication and planning are essential elements in terms of aging comfortably and securely. “I feel like that might be the most important piece as people get older, is making sure you have those things in place,” she said. Krohn’s practice provides a range of services, including asset protection, designating powers of attorney, Medicaid planning, Medicaid applications, wills and trusts, probate of estates and family mediation. She periodically hosts seminars focused on specific issues, such as a discussion of qualifying for Medicaid and preserving assets during long-term care held at the Warwick Public Library on Jan. 25. “They’re very educational. It’s a great thing to do,” she said. While tax time often brings finances to the forefront of
people’s minds, Krohn said her practice is far from seasonal in “They should always have a person with them that is hearing nature. She takes a “holistic” approach to elder law, addressing what I’m saying,” she said. “It’s always good to have another everything from medical and financial needs to family issues. person there being part of it.” Krohn said a good deal of her work deals with “crisis planOne aspect of long-term planning that surprises some clining” – helping people navigate complex decisions in terms of ents, Quackenbush said, is power of attorney. long-term care and asset protection in difficult circumstances. “There’s a medical power of attorney, and there’s a financial The focus is often on protecting a spouse from the loss of in- power of attorney, and those are not interchangeable,” she said. come or a home, as well as providing support for families. She also urges clients to ensure that their personal papers With that in mind, Krohn are secure and that someone trusted has knowledge urged people to proactively of where to find them when the time comes. Otherengage in estate planning – wise, she said, important accounts risk becoming unI feel like that might be the and, in the case of seniors, to most important piece as people claimed property – and families can suffer as a result. enlist others who are trusted get older, is making sure you have In terms of tax season, Quackenbush said there to accompany them through are few changes of note for this year’s filing period. those things in place the process and assume key re– mary quackenbush As part of her tax work, she helps clients navigate sponsibilities down the road. capital gains tax issues. “You want somebody re“It’s always frustrating to see a loss at the end of sponsible who you can trust… the year and then still have a capital gain you have to part of [elder law] counseling has to be advising the client to pay taxes on,” she said. choose the right person to handle their affairs,” she said. “You Quackenbush said at a time when people are exchanging want to know about the family. When we’re meeting with cli- paperwork and otherwise dealing with the federal government, ents, we look at the big picture. What are the family dynam- it is important to be aware of potential scams. Callers pretendics?” ing to be from the Social Security office and asking people for Quackenbush said her firm provides tax assistance as well their Social Security numbers is an issue she has heard about as investment and retirement planning services. She echoed frequently of late. Krohn in terms of the importance of planning and relying on “Any federal agency is never going to call you. Ever. They’re trusted people – noting that exploitation of seniors, even at the always going to send a certified letter,” she said, urging people hands of loved ones, can too often be a sad reality. to keep a record of suspected scammers and share it with finan“Unfortunately, I’ve seen that a lot,” she said. cial professionals or law enforcement. Quackenbush said she advises older people to bring along More information about Krohn and her practice is available someone trusted during their planning sessions with her – at seniorguideri.com. To learn more about Victor Moffitt & something that helps ensure she and the client are fully “in Associates LLC, visit victormoffitt.com. sync.”
Winter Savings
“
Start the New Year right and take advantage of our winter savings on our
Luxury One-Bedroom Suites* with Balconies starting at
$2,800 *Limited Availability
Please call Denise and schedule your visit
401.474.5249
12 Old Pocasset Lane l Johnston, RI 02919 l 401.421.6610 l AnchorBayPocasset.com
what do you fink by mike fink
I Remember a Class Act She lives near me in summertime, along Narrow River in South Kingstown. I would read her name as a board member of Save the Bay and always thought, “I should meet up with Anna...she’s of my generation, I could have dated her decades ago!” And now, I finally get to know her, through her splendid autobiography, titled “I Remember.” It’s rich in family photographs and multi-layered memories, and I read the whole volume in one eventful evening, with total admiration. For every chapter, paragraph, word. “At the outbreak of the War, my father was in the Polish Army: not many Jewish men served in the Army...” I was hooked from the very first...until the last page. “No one close to me shares any of my early memories.” Her preface itself is succinct and frank. “My name is Anna Prager. I am a Holocaust survivor.” And her very last sentence reads, “I remember the family I lost and I rejoice in the family I have.” In between, Anna Prager recounts experiences of the bitterest pain and the most remarkable victories. Not a single syllable rings false, or evasive! Now, I have my English teacher resistance to easy sentimentality or even too much moral oversimplification, but “I Remember” strikes with clarity, dignity, the proper kind of pride,
and a kind of “existential” solitude mixed with society. With responsibility to tell the truth. After surviving numerous escapes from death, she returns to her roots and her property in Poland. The new home-owner threatens her with a gun. “Get out or I’ll shoot you dead!” he declares. Unfazed, she asks, “Can I at least have the family portrait on the wall?” He refuses.....but years later, she receives a letter in her American house, asking for penicillin as a sure cure for whatever was ailing them in the postwar period. He promises to send the picture in return. She ignores the plea (properly so!). Easy forgiveness would be a falsehood and a betrayal. Anna’s story is inspiring without ever a fake note or a concession to the convention of the proverbial American “happy ending.” Yes, she discovers the joy of
learning, especially chemistry and the wisdom of science. And the commitment to the arts of peace--better communication with public transportation and more respect for the freedoms of “nature,” the rights of one and all and the pursuit of happiness for the diverse inhabitants of our shared Earth planet. How did this superb story get written, published, and distributed? Anna Prager thanks in print all who collaborated or encouraged her project, but she did not seek established grand profitdriven industries that edit, print, and publicize books that appeal to mass audiences. Like, how-to-do-it texts and handbooks, or the bios of celebrities, or the adventures of athletes and the careers of political climbers. Self-published memoirs don’t get acknowledged on the book page of major newspapers, nor do they add luster to the c.v. lists of accomplishments within Academia. And yet, for this reviewer, they are the very best of literature nowa-days! The noblest, truest, and most reliable tales... like documentary movies instead of the mob-pleasing over-produced products of our Hollywood. I send my congratulations to Anna Prager and to whoever finds a way to access her “I Remember.”
Cremation with Memorial Service
$2,445.00
This service includes: gathering and collation of vital statistic information, one person transfer of remains to the funeral home, use of facilities for state mandated 24-hour waiting period, preparation of remains (not embalming), cremation container, transfer of remains to crematory, crematory fee, state of ri $30.00 permit fee and use of funeral home for memorial service with rental urn. Also Available: Immediate
Cremation – $1,630.00
Route 44 • Greenville, RI (401) 949-0180 andersonwinfield.net
Give back to seniors in your community The strongest communities tend to be those in which members make a concerted effort to give as much as they get. Giving back to one’s community can foster strong relationships with fellow residents and ensure that everyone, including the less fortunate, is in position to live happy, healthy lives. Certain people in a community may be more vulnerable to issues that can adversely affect quality of life than others. For example, the National Institute on Aging notes that, as men and women age, many are alone more often than when they were younger, leaving them vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness. Such feelings can prove very harmful to their health, potentially contributing to problems such as depression, cognitive decline and heart disease. Volunteering to help the aging members of one’s community is a great way to give back, and such efforts can prove rewarding for both seniors and the volunteers who lend them a hand. • Pull an extra chair up to the dinner table. Many a meaningful connection has been made and maintained over the dinner table. Breaking bread with a senior from your community is a great way to foster such connections and provide an avenue for social interaction for seniors. Seniors who live alone might not enjoy cooking for one each night, but they might jump at the chance to eat dinner with a neighbor and even help prepare the meal. Invite a senior over once per week, encouraging them to share stories about their lives as well as how the community has developed over the years. • Help seniors manage their finances. Many seniors struggle to manage their finances, as laws regarding taxes and investing are subject to routine changes. A little help in this area can go a long way for seniors. Adults who want to help but donÕt know where to begin can do the legwork for their aging neighbors. Contact agencies such as AARP to determine if there are any financial assistance programs that can help seniors effectively manage their money and take advantage of age-specific perks, such as programs that may help seniors lower their energy costs. • Offer to help around the house. Seniors who reside in single-family homes may not be able to keep up with routine home maintenance. Neighbors who want to help can offer to mow the lawn, tend to the landscaping and tidy up inside. Keep an eye open for other issues, such as clogged gutters, that can be fixed easily but prove costly if they go ignored. Helping aging neighbors is a great way to give back and build strong communities. GB19B395
senior issues
retirement sparks
by larry grimaldi
by elaine m. decker
You Can’t Make It Up Sounds of Distant Memories Chapter Ii In April 2017, I penned a PrimeTime column titled “You Can’t Make It Up.” It chronicled a few of my ordinary, daily encounters with corporate America, statewide government, and poorly trained “customer service” employees that left me utterly astounded and momentarily speechless! Welcome to “You Can’t Make It Up-Chapter II.” The Creeping Driver Syndrome: If you’re running late for an appointment, you CAN COUNT on being stuck behind a driver who thinks that 35 mph is just too fast for their Sunday driving habits. They are determined not to exceed the speed limit and crawl down the road at a tortoise-like pace of 25. These are the same overly-cautious navigators that set a pace of 55 mph on the highway while driving in the fast lane. If you’re en route to your annual physical and want your blood pressure and heart rate to approach normal, taking an alternate route is advisable. The Parking Lot Blockade: While we are on the subject of vehicular courtesy (or lack thereof ), you can always count on at least one rude or “entitled” driver to park his vehicle across two spaces. This absence of consideration is especially aggravating during the annual commercial feeding frenzy known as Christmas shopping. The Gorilla Glued Folding Plastic Bag: We have all bought those rolls of plastic bags that need to be unfurled and unfolded before use. After considerable research and careful thought, I have concluded that the employees at bag manufacturing and packaging facilities surreptitiously smear a dab of super glue on some of the product before the cases are wheeled onto the loading dock to be trucked to your local stores. This diabolical plot inevitably leads to extreme frustration and a string of blue language that would make a sailor proud. Child Proof Caps: We have all had to use a crowbar or vice grip to open those Child Proof prescription bottle caps. A more honest advisory should read, “Virtually Impossible to Open.” The consumer would then be aware that determination, skill, and luck are required to access their medications. Slippery and Tiny Medicine Bottle Safety Tabs: These alleged safety tabs covering the tops of your medication bottles are a first cousin to the Child Proof Caps. Pulling back these tiny, folded eel-slippery tabs to peel back the twice-glued cover requires fingers equipped with exceptional gripping capabilities. Most of us finally resort to punching holes in the cap to avoid the inevitable frustration, permanent damage to our finger joints and scraped knuckles.
(or, more accurately unwilling) to count to 12 items or less to access the supermarket express check-out line. As a former grocery cashier who retired in 1969 at age 17 to attend college, I can tell you that the clerk is in a “no-win” situation. While they realize that the arithmetic scofflaw is trying the patience, courtesy, and good will of others in the express lane who CAN count, the cashier must adhere to the “Customer is Always Right” mantra. The Time Challenged Physician: I am convinced that a doctor is required to discard ALL watches, clocks, and assorted time pieces when they earn their MDs. How else can you account for their lackadaisical approach to appointment times? One of my friends believes that he has solved this problem by calling ahead to the doctor’s office to find out how far behind the physician’s appointments are running so he can minimize his wait time. He reports very minimal success. The Universal Robo Call: Recently, I had to change my telephone number. While I had to erase all memory traces of the number I had for 49 years from my memory bank, I was amazed to learn that my new exchange was an instant magnet for mysterious “800” numbers and calls from unfamiliar zip codes from the east, west, north, and south of the United States and other parts unknown. One such call “advised me that I would be arrested by the IRS for unpaid taxes and yet another threatened jail time over missed jury duty. (I’ve never been called to jury duty). Still another call congratulated me on being included in the will of a Nigerian prince who had left me five million dollars. Good luck with that!
When we think about which of our senses bring back memories of our youth, we generally think of smells or tastes. That’s probably because much of our early years are spent in the kitchens and dining rooms of the homes we grew up in. Of course, our sense of sight also comes to mind, especially when we’re looking at photo albums (paper or electronic). I particularly remember the smell of lilacs and honeysuckle, which grew behind our house. My bedroom window faced our backyard and it was almost always open on summer nights. And of course, I think of the smell of a freshly cut evergreen when we brought the Christmas tree into the house. That’s what I miss most now that I’ve done the previously unthinkable and gone artificial. Just one more capitulation brought about by an aging body. When we reflect on our past, most of us rarely think of the sounds of distant memories. But they can be just as powerful as sights and smells and tastes. When I was watering the plants on our deck this summer, a sound caught my attention. We had several small Amercian flags attached to the posts on the deck railings. What I heard was the flags gently snapping in the breeze. A wave of nostalgia washed over me. It took a minute to understand what was happening. I was remembering warm summer days on the lake where I grew up. On weekends, I’d take my board boat out to a quiet area along the rocky shore, drop the sail and lie in the sun. The wind on the lake was highly changeable.
On the trip to my chosen spot, it often shifted direction with little warning, setting the sail to flapping with a sound much like the flags were making. That small snippet of sound brought back such wonderful memories, ones that seldom bubble up to the surface. Memories of other boats I owned, other places I sailed in the past. We also have a wind chime out on the deck. The tinkling sound it makes is soothing. It, too, brings back memories, though I’m still trying to figure out where they are taking me. I know it’s somewhere I loved to be. Perhaps it was the first house I owned with my significant other. My sister gave us a Woodstock chime when we moved in. After we went our separate ways and I had a house on my own, I hung wind chimes as a welcoming gesture to myself. I often give these as housewarming or wedding presents to friends. It’s impossible to feel stressed when you hear a wind chime. Some sounds send a slight chill up my spine, a frisson of pleasure remembered. One in particular that does that is the whining sound of motorcycle gears shifting in the distance. Then the sound of the machine accelerating, heading farther away from me. It reminds me of summer nights during my college years. Several young men I dated had bikes. I’d sit behind them, arms around their chests, as we headed off on some adventure. That sound is somehow melancholy, especially at night. I think it’s because it’s what I’d hear after the adventure was over, when the young man was heading home. These
Copyright 2020 Elaine M. Decker Elaine M. Decker’s books include Retirement Sparks, Retirement Sparks Again, Retirement Sparks Redux and CANCER: A Coping Guide. Her essays appear in the anthologies: 80 Things To Do When You Turn 80 and 70 Things To Do When You Turn 70. All are available on Amazon.com. Contact her at: emdecker@ix.netcom.com
I’m sure you’ve all had your “You Can’t Make It Up” moments in the past. No doubt that you will have many more in 2020. So remember to stay calm, breathe deeply, and retain your sense of humor! I wish you a very peaceful, joyous, and healthy New Year. Larry Grimaldi is a retired freelance writer living in North Providence. Comments can be e-mailed to lvgrimald2149@gmail.com.
Saint Elizabeth Home
Short-term rehab, long-term care and memory care THE GREEN HOUSE® Homes
The Mathematically Challenged Supermarket Customer: We have all encountered those “entitled” customers that are unable
at Saint Elizabeth Home
A new concept in nursing home care East Greenwich 471-6060
Saint Elizabeth Manor
AFFORDABLE RETIREMENT HOUSING Innovative programs designed for today’s active older adults. We offer beautiful and carefully planned private apartments, modern amenities, personal support service options, socialand recreational activities, and caring and experienced staff. Providence Pawtucket Warwick North Kingstown Newport Middletown Portsmouth Jamestown To be eligible for occupancy consideration for most communities, households must satisfy established income limits. For more information, contact:
Phoenix PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC. 401-739-0100
days I’m sad because I’m not on the back of the bike that I’m hearing. Some sounds trigger bittersweet memories. That happens when I hear metal scraping on asphalt. My best friend died of lung cancer when she was just sixty. She’d never smoked a day in her life. She’s been gone eleven years now and I still cry when I think about our lost friendship. We met when I lived in New Jersey and we both worked at a large corporation in Manhattan. For a short period of time before she moved back to Rhode Island where her husband lived, she stayed with me. The first week she was there, I was startled one night by sound of a metal trash barrel being dragged from behind the house, down the driveway to the street. It turned out that in Rhode Island, folks put their barrels on the curb on trash day. Not so where I lived in New Jersey; the men came around the house to get them. We were both laughing as we dragged those cans back up the driveway, making that distinctive sound again. Often when I hear that now, memories of my funny, smart and loyal friend come back to me. I cry a little; I smile a lot. And I’m grateful for those sounds of distant memories.
www.phoenix-ri.com
Cornerstone Adult Services Adult day health centers Warwick and Bristol 739-2844
Saint Elizabeth Place
Affordable apartments for seniors and mobility impaired Providence 273-1090
Saint Elizabeth Terrace
Short-term rehab, long-term care and memory care Bristol 253-2300
Affordable apartments for seniors Warwick 739-7700
Saint Elizabeth Court
Cathleen Naughton Associates
Affordable assisted living Providence 490-4646
Home health services Warwick 773-7401
Saint Elizabeth Community offers a full spectrum of care and services for older adults in Rhode Island, ensuring they receive the right care in the right place at the right time. To learn how we can help you or someone you love, visit our website or call one of the numbers listed.
www.stelizabethcommunity.org A non-profit, nonsectarian 501(c)(3) charitable organization and a CareLink Partner.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
R
FAMILY FEATURES
etirement is supposed to be a reward for decades of hard work, but if you haven’t planned well, the milestone may be a dark cloud on your horizon. In fact, new data shows that nearly 50 percent of Americans are most afraid of outliving their income or the inability to maintain their current lifestyle, and nearly 20 percent are worried about having enough money to cover health care expenses. The research, released by the Indexed Annuity Leadership Council (IALC), also found that despite these very real fears, Americans are failing to take action to address them. For example, a quarter of Baby Boomers, the age group closest to retirement, have less than $5,000 saved for retirement and nearly one in five Americans have no idea how much they’ve saved. The findings indicate that Americans are afraid of the unknown when it comes to managing their money and retirement. While you can budget for leisure and travel, health care expenses and life expectancy are unpredictable. “Americans are living longer than ever, so it’s no surprise that the No. 1 retirement fear is that they’ll run out of money in their final years,” said Jim Poolman, executive director of the IALC. “Thankfully, there are strategies and products out there that can help you create sufficient retirement income to last throughout your lifetime, which can help with this crippling fear.” To take control of the uncertainty and create peace of mind when it comes to retirement, here are some simple steps you can follow:
Make a budget.
Those who plan for retirement are estimated to save three times more than those who don’t. Take into account that your expenses may increase during retirement, specifically for items such as health care and travel. Also, be sure to revisit your budget periodically to make adjustments for new circumstances that affect how much you need to support the retirement lifestyle you desire.
Balance is key.
Investing in a 401(k) is a great way to start a retirement portfolio, but putting all your eggs in one basket is a common mistake. One method to provide balance to your retirement portfolio is to add some more conservative, lowrisk products, such as Fixed Indexed Annuities (FIAs), which protect your principal regardless of market ups and downs. According to the survey, FIAs are an attractive choice for consumers, with 45 percent of Americans surveyed interested in this type of retirement product.
Plan to adjust.
Understanding Fixed Indexed Annuities In today’s economy, experts recommend ensuring you have a diversified retirement plan and balanced financial portfolio that includes conservative, low-risk products that are less impacted by stock market volatility. According to the Indexed Annuity Leadership Council’s research, 45 percent of Americans are interested in retirement products, such as Fixed Indexed Annuities, that offer steady lifetime income and protect your principal even if the stock market goes down.
A savings strategy that makes sense today might not fit your needs in five, 10 or 20 years. Factors like market volatility, changes in your career or personal life, can impact the amount you’re able to save and how much you anticipate needing when you reach retirement age.
Monitor the balance.
While it’s not as critical to track the ups and downs of your portfolio in your younger years, the closer you are to retirement, the more important it becomes to be aware of your account values. Your level of risk should reflect your age and your retirement goals. Generally, the younger you are, the greater risk you may be able to tolerate because market cycles generally rebound losses over time. When the window of time before retirement is tighter, you may not be able to recover from a dip as easily.
Small changes count.
Even seemingly little adjustments can have a noticeable impact on your finances over time. For example, packing your own lunch and giving up an evening out with friends once weekly or monthly will allow you to direct that
money to a retirement account instead. Also, be sure to pay your credit card bills on time to avoid fees that not only affect your credit rating but deplete funds that could be directed to retirement savings.
retirement account as a debt you owe and be sure to pay yourself every month. If necessary, meet with a financial advisor who can help you determine a strategy to pay down debt without sacrificing your retirement planning.
Make it automatic.
Find more tips and tools to guide your retirement planning at FIAinsights.org.
Set up scheduled transfers so you don’t forget or aren’t tempted to spend the money you planned to save. Treat your
2020 New$Year 2020
Resolutions that Save Money
Ring In January Deals
New Year’s resolutions are a tradition that many embrace but few stick with as the year progresses. The most successful resolutions are often those that make the most positive impacts on peoples’ lives, such as improving their overall health or altering their career paths. Resolutions that save men and women money also are likely to prove successful.Though saving money might not be the primary goal of many resolutions, savings can be an added benefit for those who resolve to make the following changes.
When the holiday shopping rush ends, there are plenty of people who are ready to retire their credit cards for awhile and take a break from the checkout lines. Still, others look forward to the sales that start the new year, eager to get great deals on many different products and services. There are many deals to be had when January arrives. Smart shoppers may want to wait until the dawn of the new year to get great deals on a wide variety of products.
Quit smoking. Many people resolve to quit smoking to improve their overall health, as smoking has been linked to a number of health problems, including cancer. But quitting smoking also benefits your bottom line. Smokers who smoke a pack of cigarettes each day can expect to spend several thousand dollars a year on their habits.The cost of a pack of cigarettes depends on where a smoker lives, but a smoker who pays $10 per pack and smokes one pack each day will spend $3,650 in a year. Quitting smoking can put that money back in your pocket, potentially lower your insurance costs (the National Association of Health Underwriters estimates that smokers will spend 50 percent more on life insurance policies than nonsmokers) and improve your overall health considerably. Eat right and exercise. Making exercise a part of your weekly routine is another way to save money over the long haul. According to the National Association of Health Underwriters, men and women who combine a healthy diet with exercise three times per week can decrease their prescription medications costs by 70 percent and their overall medical costs by 30 percent. Exercise greatly reduces a person’s risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease. Each of those conditions is not only unhealthy but costly as well. But each also is largely preventable when men and women adhere to a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Eliminate debt. Debt costs money, and research has shown that debt can negatively affect quality of life. The longer men and women carry balances on their credit cards, the more interest they’re paying on those debts. The dawn of a new year marks a great time to resolve your debt issues. If your debts are substantial, contact your creditors to discuss a payment plan that may help lower your obligations. Some credit card companies are willing to work with cardholders who are overwhelmed by their debts. Such companies may devise payment schedules that keep interest from accruing on existing debts so long as cardholders make predetermined minimum payments on time each month. Start saving more money. Resolving to set more money aside for savings can save men and women money over the long haul. When they have more money in savings accounts, men and women are more capable of handling emergencies or other unforeseen expenses on their own rather than relying on credit cards or lenders to help them make it through rough patches. Credit cards or bank loans come with interest charges, which will only make emergencies more expensive. If you are in a position to handle such emergencies on your own, then you won’t feel the financial pinch like you would if you needed to borrow or take on debt to handle such situations. TF141870
your
money
Electronics: Although many electronics go on sale for the holiday season, once January arrives there is another round of major discounts on electronics, even high-end items that were not included in holiday sales. New items are unveiled each year at the Consumer Electronics Show in mid-January, and many stores begin to clear out older inventory to make room for the latest offerings in hometheater systems, televisions and the like. These sales are bound to continue into February. Furniture: New furniture designs are largely unveiled in February, so come the beginning of the new year homeowners and renters can score good prices on clearance inventory. Those looking to start out the new year with new designs can generally find good prices at the start of the year. Last-minute travel: Although the cost of travel, especially trips to warm weather locales, can increase in January, last-minute or fast-acting travel package combinations are often available at low prices this time of year. Fitness gear: Many people make resolutions to get in shape; therefore, gyms, spas and manufacturers of fitness equipment may discount their products to take advantage of the trend toward getting in shape after a season of overindulgence. Winter apparel: Many post-holiday sales focus on clearing out inventory of winter essentials, like coats, sweaters, hats and gloves. Now may be the time to update your winter wardrobe. Contractors: Many people renovate their homes in the fall right before the holidays. Therefore, contractors and other home renovators may be at a loss for work come January and may discount their services to generate new business. New home: The spring and summer are prime seasons for buying a new home. Few people want to brave the elements and look at homes with yards devoid of flowers and shrubbery. But buying a home in the winter may be more financially prudent. The new year presents new opportunities to save money on items that are deeply discounted or go on sale this time of the year. TF131797
Protect yourself from fraud this year
With a new decade upon us, it is natural to look to the past on lessons learned. When looking at cybercrime, criminals have advanced their techniques over the past 10 years and have become adept at stealing personal information and scamming innocent people. While we can’t control what they do, we can continue being smart and vigilant in protecting sensitive information like account numbers, expiration dates and three-digit security codes on the back of payment cards. As shoppers increasingly buy everything from clothes to gadgets and groceries through a combination of in-store and online merchants with payment cards, there’s more urgency than ever to make sure everyone is aware of ways they can reduce the likelihood or prevent altogether, falling victim to fraud. “Fraudsters love to prey on distracted and unsuspecting consumers,” said Michael Jabbara, senior director, Global Risk, Visa. “Making smart choices and being vigilant whether shopping online or in stores will make a world of difference.”
We’ve outlined several simple steps people can take to protect themselves from fraud when making purchases - no matter where they are or what they’re buying. Keep Your Data Safe Shoppers can greatly reduce their chances of becoming a victim of a major data breach by making smart choices in how they are paying for purchases. Shoppers should use a payment card with a chip or contactless symbol on it to protect their payment card data from being stolen in case of a data breach, and chip-enabled checkout is proven to help reduce fraud by as much as 81%. Check Out Securely Online Online shopping remains an excellent option for convenient purchases, with many consumers increasingly heading to their favorite websites to get their shopping done. To stay safe when checking out online, it is critical to always check the URL and make sure it begins with “https://”. The “s” at the end confirms a secure connec-
tion. Also, companies are adding ways to make it faster, easier and more importantly, safer to pay with a card. For example, Visa recently introduced a click to pay button for sites such as Cinemark, Movember, Rakuten, Saks Fifth Avenue, SHOP.com, BassPro, JoAnn Fabrics, Papa John’s, Staples and Tickets. com. This button not only speeds up the check-out process, but also adds an extra layer of protection. Stay Up-to-Date Fraudsters are always trying new tactics and approaches to access information, and shoppers need to stay vigilant. To stay safe, shoppers should make sure the device they are using, whether it’s a phone, tablet or laptop, has the latest software installed and the latest version of apps loaded to reduce the likelihood of a known vulnerability being present. Shoppers also need to regularly update passwords with strong combinations that are unique to each account. Better yet, switch to biometrics if it’s an option. Using fingerprint or facial recognition for account login and/or payments when
available makes it harder for fraudsters to gain unauthorized access to devices, apps and information, but easier and safer for shoppers. Watch Out for Phishing Scams With online shopping continuing to be popular, phishing scams are out in full force to take advantage. Shoppers need to be careful of unsolicited and suspicious emails or phone calls. Also, they should be wary of “one day only” deals or fake delivery tracking emails that direct them to unknown URLs used to steal information like username and password. Keep Your Data to Yourself It’s been said many times over that the best defense is a good offense, and that certainly holds true as fraudsters become more adept and technologically savvy. Over the next 10 years, cybercriminals will likely become more motivated to steal your payment information. It’s crucial for people to know and stay up to date on the best ways to protect themselves, so your data remains yours - and yours only. (BPT) -
Beware of ‘Free Genetic Testing’ Medicare Scam Over the past few years, DNA tests have become more popular across the country. However, unscrupulous people are taking advantage of the buzz around these tests to scam Medicare beneficiaries. Scammers target Medicare beneficiaries through telemarketing calls, booths at public events, health fairs and door-to-door visits. They offer “free” genetic testing to help recipients avoid diseases or find the right medications. The scammers claim the testing is covered by Medicare, and therefore is free to the beneficiary. In reality, Medicare only covers genetic testing in limited situations, and only when ordered by the beneficiary’s physician. If a company bills Medicare for genetic testing, and Medicare denies the claim, the beneficiary could be responsible for the entire cost of the test, which can total around $10,000. In other cases, the scammers are simply trying to obtain Medicare numbers they can use to steal a beneficiary’s medical identity or to fraudulently bill Medicare for services they did not provide. Such fraud can hurt not just Medicare beneficiaries, but all American taxpayers who contribute to Medicare. To avoid being scammed, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) offers this advice to beneficiaries:
• Do not accept genetic testing services, including a cheek swab, from someone at a community event, local fair, farmer’s market, parking lot or other large event. • Always be cautious about giving out your personal information, including your Medicare number. • If you receive a genetic testing kit in the mail, don’t accept it unless it was ordered by your physician. Refuse the delivery or return it to the sender and keep a record of the sender’s name and the date you returned the item. • Always review your Medicare Summary Notice or explanation of benefits. The terms “gene analysis” or “molecular pathology” may indicate questionable genetic testing. If you received a cheek swab or screening that was not ordered by a trusted provider or have concerns about billing errors or possible fraud, contact your local Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP). The SMP program, funded by ACL, helps Medicare beneficiaries protect themselves from fraud, errors and abuse, and detect and report problems if and when they occur. To find your local SMP, visit smpresource.org or call 1-877-808-2468. (Family Features)ing
did you knoW? According to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, questions can be an investor’s best friend, particularly when it comes to fees. Fees might be referenced in the fine print when signing an investment agreement, but they can be anything but small as a portfolio grows and accumulates more assets. The SEC notes that, over a 20-year period in which investors invest $100,000, 1 percent annual fees can reduce the size of a portfolio by as much as $30,000 (based
your
money did you knoW?
Credit scores are important factors when lenders determine if individuals applying for credit or loans are worthy borrowers. Credit is used when purchasing a new home, buying a car, opening a business, or applying for new credit cards. A credit score is a three-digit number that corresponds to a certain range. The standards were established by FICO®, and the higher the score, the better (scores start at 300 and move upward to 850). Various things can impact credit score, and some weigh more heavily toward the final score than others. The following are the factors that influence credit score in order of their importance, according to Wells Fargo bank. · Payment history (making payments on time) · Current debts (carrying high balances) · Credit history · New credit application inquiries · Types of current credit (mixed forms of loans, credit cards, etc.)
on annual returns of 4 percent). In such a scenario, an investor paying 1 percent annual fees and netting annual return of 4 percent would have a portfolio worth $180,000 after 20 years. However, an investor who pays just 0.25 percent in annual fees and invests the same amount of money while earning the same returns would have a portfolio worth roughly $210,000 after 20 years. When opening an investment account, the SEC advises investors to ask about the total fees to purchase, maintain
and sell a given investment. In addition, investors are advised to ask if there are ways to reduce or avoid fees. The SEC also recommends that investors inquire if there are any ongoing maintenance fees related to an account and how much an investment has to increase in value before an investor can break even. MM19C470
BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS and
SERVICE DIRECTORY
SENIOR HOUSING
VENUE
This Month’s Featured Business...
Choose Senior Housing Apartments as your new home 70 Lincoln Avenue www.presidentialapts.com Cranston 401-946-4868 Conveniently located to public transportation and nearby shopping plaza
Labs_ad_PT.qxp_Prime Time 6/29/17 9:28 AM Pag
LABORATORY SERVICES
DERMATOLOGY
• Complete range of the most advanced laboratory tests • 50 locations - no appointment necessary Call 401-793-4242 / 1-800-980-4244 www.LifespanLabs.org *RIH Ventures d.b.a Lifespan Laboratories
REAL ESTATE
ADVERTISE HERE
Products and Services Designed to Make Your Life Easier CALL 401-732-3100 TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ADVERTISING
Free Tax Help in Rhode Island your taXes by m e G c h e Va l i e r
More than 60 free tax preparation sites are open in Rhode Island this year as the Internal Revenue Service continues to expand its partnerships with nonprofit and community organizations. The sites provide vital tax preparation services for low- to-moderate-income and elderly taxpayers. The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program offers free tax help generally to people who earn $56,000 or less. The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Program offers free tax help to taxpayers who are 60 and older. Taxpayers need to present the following items to have their returns prepared: • Proof of identification (photo ID) • Social Security cards for you, your spouse and dependents • An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) assignment letter may be substituted for you, your spouse and your dependents if you do not have a Social Security number • Proof of foreign status, if applying for an ITIN • Birth dates for you, your spouse and dependents on the tax return • Wage and earning statements (Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R,1099-Misc) from all employers • Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099) • A copy of last year’s federal and state returns, if available • Proof of bank account routing and account numbers for direct deposit such as a blank check • To file taxes electronically on a married-filingjoint tax return, both spouses must be present to sign the required forms • Total amount paid for daycare services and the daycare provider’s tax identifying number such as their Social Security number or business Employer
Identification Number • Forms 1095-A, Affordable Health Care Statement, if applicable • Copies of income transcripts from IRS and state, if applicable
Trained and certified community volunteers can help eligible taxpayers with credits, such as the EITC, Child Tax Credit or Credit for the Elderly. The EITC is one of the federal government’s largest benefit programs for working families and individuals. Workers must file a tax return, even if they do not have a filing requirement, and specifically claim the credit to get the benefit. As part of the IRS-sponsored TCE Program, AARP offers the Tax-Aide counseling program at more than 34 sites throughout the filing season. Trained and certified AARP Tax-Aide volunteer counselors help all taxpayers with special attention to people age 60 and older. In addition to free tax return preparation assistance, sites will file returns electronically for free. E-file, when combined with direct deposit, is the fastest way to get a refund. The IRS expects to issue more than nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21 days. It takes longer to process paper returns and due to a reduction of the IRS budget, it will likely take an additional week or more to process paper returns meaning that those refunds are expected to be issued in seven weeks or more. Taxpayers who file electronically also can opt to file now and pay later. If taxpayers owe, they can make a payment by April 15, 2020, using one of many secure methods, like the IRS Direct Pay free service or by choosing an approved payment processor. For taxpayers who want to prepare and file their own tax returns electronically, there is IRS Free File. Everyone can use Free File, the free way to prepare and e-file federal taxes either through brand-name software or online
fillable forms. Individuals or families with 2019 adjusted gross incomes of $69,000 or less can use Free File software. Free File Fillable Forms, the electronic version of IRS paper forms, has no income restrictions. For either service, taxpayers must go through www. irs.gov/freefile to access the programs. Also, MyFreeTaxes is available at www.myfreetaxes. com with up to three free state tax returns.
your
money
Local VITA site information is available by calling the United Way number 2-1-1. Also at IRS.gov - search the word “VITA” and then click on Free Tax Return Preparation for You by Volunteers. Site information is also available by calling the IRS at 800-906-9887. To locate the nearest AARP Tax-Aide site, visit aarp.org, or call 888-227-7669.
Know their filing status
When a taxpayer files their tax return, they need to know their filing status. What folks should remember is that a taxpayer’s status could change during the year. So, any time is a good a time for a taxpayer to learn about the different filing statuses and which one is best for them. Knowing the correct filing status can help taxpayers determine several things about filing their tax return: • Is the taxpayer required to file a federal tax return or should they file to receive a refund? • What is their standard deduction amount? • Is the taxpayer eligibility for certain credits? • How much tax they should pay? The taxpayer’s filing status generally depends on whether they are single or married on Dec. 31 and that is their status for the whole year.
Here’s a list of filing statuses and a description of who claims them: • Single. Normally this status is for taxpayers who are unmarried, divorced or legally separated under a divorce or separate maintenance decree governed by state law. • Married filing jointly. If a taxpayer is married, they can file a joint tax return with their spouse. When a spouse passes away, the widowed spouse can usually file a joint return for that year. • Married filing separately. Alternatively, married couples can choose to file separate tax returns. It may result in less tax owed than filing a joint tax return. • Head of household. Unmarried taxpayers may be able file using this status, but special rules apply. For example, the taxpayer must have paid more than half the cost of keeping up a home for themselves and a qualifying person living in the home for half the year. Taxpayers should check the rules to make sure they qualify. • Qualifying widow(er) with dependent child. This status may apply to a taxpayer if their spouse died during one of the previous two years and they have a dependent child. Other conditions also apply.
More than one filing status may apply and taxpayers can generally choose the filing status the allows them to pay the least amount of tax. For additional information please visit IRS.gov/filing status and Publication 501, Standard Deduction and Filing Information.
An All New PrimeTime! PrimeTime is now a monthly section in the Cranston Herald, Johnston Sun Rise, Reminder and Warwick Beacon, reaching over 44,000 homes and businesses in the West Bay! Look for us in your neighborhood newspapers every month.
PRIMETIME
To find out more about this valuable advertising opportunity,
Call
401-732-3100
alzheimer’s disease Memory loss that disrupts daily life may be a symptom of Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that causes a slow decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. There are 10 warning signs and symptoms. Every individual may experience one or more of these signs in a different degree. If you notice any of them, please see a doctor.
1. Memory Loss that Disrupts Daily Life One of the
most common signs of Alzheimer’s is memory loss, especially forgetting recently learned information. Others include forgetting important dates or events; asking for the same information over and over; increasingly needing to rely on memory aids (e.g., reminder notes or electronic devices) or family members for things they used to handle on their own. What’s a typical age-related change? Sometimes forgetting names or appointments, but remember them later.
2. Challenges in Planning or Solving Problems Some people
may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. They may have
trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills. They may have difficulty concentrating and take much longer to do things than they did before. What’s a typical age-related change? Making occasional errors when balancing a checkbook.
3. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks at Home, Work, or Leisure
People with Alzheimer’s often find it hard to complete daily tasks. Sometimes, people may have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget at work or remembering the rules of a favorite game. What’s a typical age-related change? Occasionally needing help to use the settings on a microwave or to record a television show.
4. Confusion with Time or Place People with Alzheimer’s can lose track of dates, seasons, and the
passage of time. They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately. Sometimes they may forget where they are or how they got there. What’s a typical age-related change? Getting confused about the day of the week but figuring it out later.
5. Trouble Understanding Visual Images & Spatial Relationships
For some people, having vision problems is a sign of Alzheimer’s. They may have difficulty reading, judging distance and determining color or contrast, which may cause problems with driving. What’s a typical agerelated change? Vision changes related to cataracts.
6. New Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing People
with Alzheimer’s may have trouble following or joining a conversation. They may stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue or they may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary, have problems finding the right word or call things by the wrong name (e.g., calling a “watch” a “hand-clock”). What’s a typical age-
10 Early Signs & Symptoms
related change? Sometimes having trouble finding the right word.
7. Misplacing Things and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps
A person with Alzheimer’s disease may put things in unusual places. They may lose things and be unable to go back over the steps to find them again. Sometimes, they may accuse others of stealing. This may occur more frequently over time. What’s a typical age-related change? Misplacing things from time to time and retracing steps to find them.
8. Decreased or Poor Judgment People with Alzheimer’s may
experience changes in judgment or decision-making. For example, they may use poor judgment when dealing with money, giving large amounts to telemarketers. They may pay less attention to grooming or keeping themselves clean. What’s a typical agerelated change? Making a bad decision once in a while.
9. Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities A person
with Alzheimer’s may start to remove themselves from hobbies, social activities, work projects or sports. They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite sports team or remembering
how to complete a favorite hobby. They may also avoid being social because of the changes they have experienced. What’s a typical age-related change? Sometimes feeling weary or work, family and social obligations.
10. Changes in Mood and Personality The mood and per-
sonalities of people with Alzheimer’s can change. They can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful or anxious. They may be easily upset at home, at work, with friends or in places where they are out of their comfort zone. What’s a typical age-related change? Developing very specific ways of doing things and becoming irritable when a routine is disrupted.
What to do if you notice these signs? If you notice any of the 10
Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s in yourself or someone you know, don’t ignore them. Schedule an appointment with your doctor. With early detection you can: Get the maximum benefit from available treatments You can explore treatments that may provide some relief of symptoms and help you maintain a level of independence longer. You may also increase your chances of participating in clinical drug trials that help advance research.
• Creative Products • Innovative Ideas • Personalized Service
RHODYPRINTS is proud to offer high quality PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS to Advertise, Motivate and Recognize Your Business, Organization, Charity or Event!
PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS:
Embroidered & Screenprinted Apparel Uniforms • Drinkware • Magnets • Calendars Pens • Banners • Padfolios • Holiday Cards • Key Rings Tote Bags • Coolers • Watches • Flash Drives • MORE!
rh o d yp ri n ts. c om
BOB GIBERTI
Manager of Promotional Products
With over 20 years experience, Bob will work with you to identify what products would best promote your business or organization.
Contact Bob for more info
401-732-3100 bobg@rhodybeat.com