Money

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’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.

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.

Every day another older Vermonter is ripped off by a telephone,

Is starting a small business right for you? Do you have an idea to start your own small business? Need basic information on what to do next, understand how much it will cost, and find out where to go for assistance?

Even though 2013 has come and gone, you can still get a tax break when you file your income tax return. How? By contributing to a Traditional IRA. If you’re self-employed, the same applies to your SEP-IRA or Keogh plan.

March 31 is the open enrollment deadline for individuals and families to enroll in health insurance coverage for 2014 through Vermont Health Connect, Vermont’s health insurance Exchange.