As we age, there might come a time when we are no longer able to make some decisions on our own. It's important for our loved ones to know our wishes and that someone we trust has the authority to look out for us. Before that time comes, it's best to have a plan in place so families can better support us.
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Seniors have many reasons to stay informed about their financial situation. Doing so ensures that you have the resources available to meet daily needs now, and in the future. Like everyone else, you also need to protect yourself from fraud and scams.
Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care offers the following information that contains related links to provincial government resources as along with other helpful other information.
There are many financial benefits available to seniors in Manitoba, depending on eligibility.
The Canada Revenue Agency offers a “benefit finder” web tool to help you identify available benefits. You can find the web tool here at – Benefits Finder | Find Government Benefits and Services
It is very important for seniors to file their taxes because eligibility for many of the benefits depends on it. Providing information on your age, income level, housing and medical expenses are all examples of important information that could help save you money.
This link explains in detail why it is important – Tax Filing & Benefits - Manitoba Housing
This link explains the Manitoba Tax Credits that you may be able to receive - Personal Tax Credits - Manitoba Finance
Preparing and filing taxes can be daunting and complicated. If you need help, this link can help you find a low cost, or no cost, tax preparation service – Free Tax Clinics - Government of Canada.
This is a link to the Public Guardian and Trustee’s website. There is information about their role and how it may apply to you – Public Guardian and Trustee of Manitoba
The website has a link to A Legal Information Guide for Seniors which explains wills and estates, power of attorney and health care directives. It can be accessed directly here – A Legal Information Guide for Seniors.
This link provides information on Tenant Services Coordinators and how they can assist tenants who are residing in Manitoba Housing owned properties – Manitoba Housing – Tenant Services
People receiving EIA benefits may see their assistance reduced or stopped when they turn 65 years old and become eligible for Old Age Security (OAS) and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
EIA has a specialized unit that can help you apply for OAS is a timely manner to ensure that there is no interruption to your income. Your case counsellor can connect you with the help you may need for this.
Transitioning from EIA to OAS can be challenging for some people as they may need to start paying their own rent or utilities if EIA was paying for them directly.
If this applies to you, it is a good idea to contact your case counsellor to discuss ways to make the transition as easy as possible.
Seniors are often targets and victims of fraud and scams. Attempts to defraud you can come by phone (including text messages), through email, while accessing online services, and even from people you know. The following websites offer information about common frauds and scams, along with steps you can take to protect yourself.
Manitoba Consumer Protection Office
Information for Consumers - Manitoba Consumer Protection
Choosing Your Trusted Contact Person
Identifying and Preventing Financial Abuse
The ABCs of Senior Investment Fraud
Scam Artists Pursue Adults Over 50
My Personal Affairs Record Keeper
You’re My Trusted Contact Person