Real Relief
By: State: Massachusetts
AARP and the AARP Foundation have launched a new online portal, "Real Relief", to assist older Americans during this difficult economic time. This one-stop online site focuses both on jobs and job training, and on strictly financial issues such as money management and investment help.
Soaring unemployment, plummeting investments
According to recent Department of Labor employment figures, 4.9 percent of age 55 and older workers were unemployed last month, a jump of 58 percent over one year ago and the highest figure since 1983.
While workers of all ages are facing layoffs spawned by the worst economic downturn in decades, those age 50 and older are especially vulnerable. And for those who have already retired, the economy could have a serious impact on their investments and retirement savings, jeopardizing long-term financial security.
Real Relief
AARP’s "Real Relief" covers many topics, including:
- Tips for job seekers: job search strategies and resources; help with issues involving self-employment and small businesses.
- Financial advice: tips and resources for protecting investments and cutting expenses.
- Help with taxes and money management: free services to help during tax season, and with bill paying and other money management issues.
- Public benefits: information on public assistance programs, as well as Social Security and Medicare.
Share your story
Laid off and looking for work? Retired but looking to supplement your income in face of the economic crisis? Visit our AARP Massachusetts community page to share your story.
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