Social Security Q&A Part 31

By Vonda Van Til, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Questions and Answers: Question: I am receiving Social Security retirement benefits and I recently went back to work. Do I have to pay Social Security (FICA) taxes on my income? Answer: Yes. By law, your employer must withhold FICA taxes from your paycheck. Although you are retired, you do receive credit for those new earnings. Each … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 31

Social Security’s commitment to the LGBTQ+ community

By Vonda Van Til, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist June is Pride Month. It’s a time to acknowledge the struggles of the LGBTQ+ community, and also celebrate diversity, love, and respect. On June 26, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, holding that same-sex couples have a constitutional right to marry in all states. We recognize same-sex couples’ marriages in … Continue reading Social Security’s commitment to the LGBTQ+ community

light inside library

Library Resources – Free or Discounted Tickets

By Liseia Parisian, Network Screening Integration Coordinator at Elder Law of Michigan When most people think of the library they only think aisles of books, yet the library has so much more to offer. The library also offers free and discounted tickets to many attractions, such as museums and multiple State and National Parks in Michigan. This library perk can serve as a great excursion … Continue reading Library Resources – Free or Discounted Tickets

Social Security Q&A Part 26

By Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: I’m 65, not ready to retire, but I want to apply for my Medicare coverage. How can I do that? Answer: The easiest and most convenient way is to apply online. Use our online application to sign up for Medicare. It takes less than 10 minutes. In most cases, once your application is submitted electronically, you’re … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 26

Addressing Arthritis

By Abigail Haller, Screening Integration Coordinator at Elder Law of Michigan Most people know the term arthritis and the general definition of painful inflammation and stiffness of joints. But what does it truly mean to have arthritis? There are three common types: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. The most common type, affecting 27 million Americans according to Harvard Medical School, is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a form … Continue reading Addressing Arthritis

Social Security survivors benefits explained

By Vonda Van Til, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist   We are here for surviving family members when a worker dies.  In the event of your death, certain members of your family may be eligible for survivors benefits.  These include widows and widowers, divorced widows and widowers, children, and dependent parents. The amount of benefits your survivors receive depends on your lifetime earnings.  The higher … Continue reading Social Security survivors benefits explained

Autumn Activities for Seniors

Autumn Activities for Seniors By Michelle Jackson, MiCAFE Network Screening and Application Specialist at Elder Law of Michigan Autumn or Fall is such a beautiful time of the year, especially in Michigan, and is just around the corner. Soon we will have beautiful maple leaves to explore and will admire the mixed colors that come with the new season. Many Michiganders enjoy taking walks near the lakes … Continue reading Autumn Activities for Seniors

assorted sliced fruits in white ceramic bowl

Client Story

MiCAFE Client Story: Ms. C By Grace DeRose-Wilson, Screening Integration Coordinator at Elder Law of Michigan Michigan’s Coordinated Access to Food for the Elderly (MiCAFE) is a program of Elder Law of Michigan that helps potentially eligible older adults and individuals with disabilities access and apply for public benefits through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). MiCAFE also helps older adults and people with … Continue reading Client Story

August was National Eye Exam Month

By Liseia Parisian, Network Screening Integration Coordinator at Elder Law of Michigan Did you know that an eye exam can detect over 20 different chronic diseases and disorders, which according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology include diabetes, high blood pressure, loss of vision, and even cancer. For most of these conditions early detection is key to prevent further health decline or fatality.  August is National Eye Exam … Continue reading August was National Eye Exam Month

We Will Be Okay

By Ron Tatro, Director of Michigan Elder Justice Coordinating Council at Elder Law of Michigan There are many challenges to aging such as medical conditions, financial concerns, isolation, and distance from loved ones. As we age, we often reflect on days gone by and how everything has changed. Much of what we knew as a younger person is different today with a new generation taking over. This … Continue reading We Will Be Okay