Ask Our Experts
By: Compiled by Carole Fleck; Source: AARP Bulletin Date Posted: 2007-01-17 12:53:00-05:00
The AARP Bulletin 's Ask Our Experts column provides answers to important questions affecting older Americans. Read below for this month's column, or review our archive of previously published questions and answers sorted by topic. (Note: Recent news or changes to regulations may affect the guidance offered in this previously published column.)
Submit your own question to the Ask Our Experts column via our easy-to-use online form.
Q. I was fully vested in my firm's defined benefit pension plan when I retired recently at age 68. The problem is that I lied about my age when I was hired, saying I was 54, not 60. The company thinks I'm now 62 and won't give me a pension for another three years. What would happen if I told them I lied and asked to receive my pension now?
A. There's no question that you acted improperly by lying. But according to the IRS, if you provide proof of age, such as a copy of your birth certificate or a passport, you should be able to collect your benefit. If your former company refuses to accept your proof and withholds your pension, contact the U.S. Labor Department's Employee Benefits Security Administration at www.dol.gov/ebsa, or call (866) 444-3272 toll free. — Expertise provided by John Turner
Q. I'm 60 years old and drive a truck for a living. I didn't pass my last Department of Transportation physical because of my diabetes, so now I'm out of a job. Can I qualify for Social Security disability?
A. First, to qualify for disability benefits, you must have worked long enough to earn the number of work credits required by Social Security. To view a chart on how many credits you need, go online to www.socialsecurity.gov/dibplan/dqualify3.htm. Second, an evaluation by Social Security must determine that you can't do the work you did before, or any other work, because of a medical condition. Your medical condition must also be expected to last for at least one year or to result in death.
To apply online for disability benefits, or to learn more, go to socialsecurity.gov. — Expertise provided by Laurel Beedon
Q. How can I find out if a brand-name drug has a generic equivalent?
A. The simplest way to check if a brand-name drug has a generic equivalent is to ask your doctor or pharmacist. You can also go to fda.govor www.drugstore.com. Type in the drug brand name—if there's a generic, both the brand and generic names should appear. — Expertise provided by N. Lee Rucker
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