AARP Vermont

Are you working for an employer that doesn’t offer a 401(k)-type retirement savings plan? This can be a real worry for millions of working Americans, who fear they can’t effectively save for retirement without a 401(k).

If you live in or around Burlington, chances are you have driven North Avenue. This important street is the backbone of the New North End as well as a key connection between the New North End and the Waterfront and Downtown. What is less likely is that you have biked North Avenue, or walked along it for any distance.

If you’re making a career change—by choice or out of necessity—you can take steps to help ensure a smooth transition. AARP is here to help with a variety of resources at www.aarp.org/WorkResources. Help includes tips on networking, learning about job openings, researching employers and applying for positions.

AARP knows that fraud will never be eliminated entirely, but there is a lot more that can be done to arm consumers with tools to detect and avoid fraud. That’s why AARP launched its Fraud Watch Network because of the serious fraud threats here in Utah, where it’s a multi-billion dollar industry, as it is all across the country. Fraud isn’t just limited to “too good to be true” offers. According to recent report by Javelin Strategy and Research, more than $20 billion was stolen from approximately 13 million identity theft victims in 2012. Whether it’s over the phone, through the mail, online or even at your door, scam artists are out there and they are looking for new ways to get you and your loved ones to open your wallets.

Let’s talk about housing needs in Burlington! The Mayor’s office recently released a comprehensive housing strategy report outlining a number of recommendations to improve and grow the housing stock in downtown Burlington, addressing issues of affordability and availability. Appropriate and affordable housing is a key component to the development of a livable community. The first opportunity for the public to weigh in on the report is June 12 at 7 p.m. in Contois Auditorium at City Hall.

The AARP Smart Driver® Program, a classroom driver refresher course, is offered regularly throughout Vermont. Program content addresses the changes that occur in vision, hearing, and reaction time as we age and provides useful driving safety tips for handling these changes. The course also reviews how changes in vehicles and roadways affect driving safety featuring new research-based content and information regarding Vermont motor vehicle laws. Updated content includes discussion of health and mental acuity as well as approaches to limit the need to drive in order to accomplish necessary tasks. A complete list of Vermont classes as well as other driver safety information can be found on the internet at www.VTdrivers.org.

The AARP Smart Driver® Program, a classroom driver refresher course, is offered regularly throughout Vermont. Program content addresses the changes that occur in vision, hearing, and reaction time as we age and provides useful driving safety tips for handling these changes. The course also reviews how changes in vehicles and roadways affect driving safety featuring new research-based content and information regarding Vermont motor vehicle laws. Updated content includes discussion of health and mental acuity as well as approaches to limit the need to drive in order to accomplish necessary tasks. A complete list of Vermont classes as well as other driver safety information can be found on the internet at www.VTdrivers.org.

Frauds and scams will be the focus of this month’s AARP Live airing Thursday, May 22 nd at 10 p.m. ET on the RFD-TV network.

Did you know that every three seconds someone’s identity is stolen? Con artists have been around since the dawn of time, but the problem is worse today that ever, and older Americans are in the crosshairs of these criminals. Last year alone, 12.6 million citizens were victims of identity theft! How can you protect yourself from identity theft and fraud? What are some of the ways these scammers get you to take the bait – even when you think you know better? Whether it’s bogus investment deals, the grandparent scam, e-mail ploys, lottery scams, or the newest ID theft scheme, getting informed is the best way to avoid being the next victim.

Governor Peter Shumlin today signed a bill into law that effectively prevents predatory online lending institutions from preying upon older Vermonters. The legislation, drafted by AARP Vermont and others, impacts companies offering cash advances to pensioners in exchange for part or all of their pension payments – often at very high interest rates. The new law requires these companies to register with the state and comply with strict regulations on interest rates, disclosures, etc. -- or face stiff penalties. Regulators are confident that these companies will not comply and therefore will effectively be unable to operate in Vermont.