A recent Forbes article placed Pennsylvania second only to Georgia on the list of the states that offer the best deals for residents older than 65, according to tax experts. PA seniors benefit from an income tax system designed to be favorable to retirees. Social Security benefits, formal pension plans and IRAs are not subject to state income tax – and many older residents also qualify for tax forgiveness, so they don’t have to make estimated payments on interest or dividends from investments. Many PA seniors also take advantage of property tax and rent rebate programs.
Tax advantages are just part of the pluses that attract seniors to PA – resulting in the third highest percentage of older residents in the nation. To enhance the quality of life for these older Pennsylvanians, a wide range of special programs and benefits are offered through a variety of public entities: Pace and PaceNet prescription drug programs, free and reduced-fare transportation, senior centers and hot-meal programs, as well as unique employment, social, educational and volunteer opportunities.
Many of these “senior specials” are funded by the Pennsylvania Lottery – the only U.S. Lottery whose proceeds are dedicated solely to the benefit of older residents. The various county Area Agencies on Aging provide first-source clearinghouses for senior benefits and programs:
- Monroe County Area Agency on Aging
- Pike County Area Agency on Aging
- Carbon County Area Agency on Aging
- Wayne County Area Agency on Aging
- Northampton County Area Agency on Aging
East Stroudsburg University is a great resource for Pocono seniors. In addition to a variety of lectures, arts events, and other activities that are free to the public, ESU invites senior citizens to enroll in courses tuition-free – though they are responsible for any class fees. Students must be legal residents of Pennsylvania and must be retired (not presently engaged in full-time employment). The program allows a maximum of six credits (usually two courses) per semester in non-degree status, and registration is done on a “space available” basis. Click here to find out more.
Pocono Family YMCA has senior-friendly features including special pricing for older adults and programs including general fitness, arthritis excercise and aquatics. Check it out by clicking here.
Monroe County Transit Authority offers expanded routes and reduced fares for seniors through the Shared Ride program. For more info visit their website.
Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Monroe County is a terrific place for older residents to use their experience and talents to help others, while making friends and having fun, too. You can reach RSVP of Monroe County at (570) 420-3747
For a detailed explanation of Pennsylvania’s senior-friendly advantages, contact me for a printable copy of the brochure, “Benefits & Rights for Older Pennsylvanians”.
