Ask Our Experts
By: Compiled by Carole Fleck; Source: AARP Bulletin Date Posted: 2007-05-17 14:04:00-04:00
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. My man and I have been living together for more than seven years and are considered common-law husband and wife under our state laws. If he dies, am I entitled to his Social Security benefits?
A. If your state recognizes you're in a common-law marriage, then Social Security will likely find you eligible for survivor benefits. Go to your Social Security office and fill out forms that require statements from both of you and two blood relatives, saying you're in a common-law marriage. You must also submit supporting evidence, such as mortgage or rent receipts, bank records or insurance policies. For details, go online to www.ssa.gov. —Expertise provided by Evelyn Morton
Q. Internet banks are advertising high interest rates (5 percent) for savings accounts. Are these banks safe?
A. It's harder to tell if a bank is legitimate when you can't stop in to talk to the manager. That's why you must check out an Internet bank thoroughly. First, read the material posted on the bank's website. Are there ways to reach the institution for customer assistance? Make sure you understand the terms—are fees and minimum balance requirements eating away at that high interest rate? Next, make sure the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insures the bank's deposits. Look for the FDIC logo on the institution's website, but don't stop there. Double-check by going to the FDIC Institution Directory at www2.fdic.gov/idaspfor a list of banks it does business with. —Expertise provided by Sally Hurme
Q. I'll be 65 this December. When should I sign up for Medicare?
A. You'll be eligible to enroll in Medicare Parts A (hospital), B (doctor) and D (drug plan) starting Sept. 1, 2007—three months before the month in which you turn 65. The simplest way to enroll in A and B is to visit your local Social Security office or call 1-800-772-1213. You can enroll in Part D at www.medicare.gov, by phoning the Medicare hotline at 1-800-633-4227 or by contacting the plan of your choice. —Expertise provided by N. Lee Rucker
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