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United We Ride Conference
Medicare Protection Toolkit
Irene Collins, Commissioner
Dear Friends:
This has been another busy year for the Alabama Department of Senior Services (ADSS), and I am honored to share some of our progress with you.
We began 2008 with a focus on older workers and set out to ensure that mature Alabamians have a place at the table when it comes to workforce development and job training. As part of the State Workforce Planning Council, I had the opportunity to sit down with policy makers in the state serving as a strong voice for mature workers.
In February, Congress approved an Economic Stimulus Payment for 130 million households to jolt the American economy. Unfortunately, over 5 million people still have not filed to receive their portion of the payment, and with the Oct. 15 deadline quickly approaching, time is running out. Even if you do not usually file a tax return, you may be eligible for a $300 stimulus payment ($600 if married) if you received over $3,000 from Social Security, Railroad Retirement or Veterans Administration. Filing for your stimulus payment will not affect your eligibility for services you are currently receiving. It is very quick and easy to file, and there are resources to assist you. By going to benefitscheckup.org you can learn more about the stimulus payment and complete the form. I urge you to file today if you have not yet done so—don’t forget that the deadline is October 15, 2008.
The switch from analog to digital television will take affect on February 17, 2009. While the switch to digital television will provide a clearer picture, higher quality sound and a greater number of free channels, many people will have to get a converter box to keep their service from being interrupted. For more information on the switch and how it may affect you, visit www.DTVanswers.com.
Finally, if you need assistance from any of our programs, please call your local Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-243-5463. We are here to assist you in any way we can and look forward to continuing to work with you.
 Sincerely,
Irene B. Collins
Commissioner
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