April is Financial Literacy Month, and in recognition, the National Council on Aging published an article that highlights eight tips for seniors to protect themselves from money scams.
Compiled by NCOA and the Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement, the tips include:
- Be aware that you are at risk from strangers—and from those closest to you;
- Don’t isolate yourself—stay involved;
- Tell solicitors: “I never buy from (or give to) anyone who calls or visits me unannounced. Send me something in writing;”
- Shred all receipts with your credit card number;
- Sign up for the “Do Not Call” list and take yourself off multiple mailing lists;
- Use direct deposit for benefit checks to prevent checks from being stolen from the mailbox;
- Never give your credit card, banking, Social Security, Medicare, or other personal information over the phone unless you initiated the call; and
- Be skeptical of all unsolicited offers and thoroughly do your research.
To get more detailed information on each of these tips, visit NCOA.org.
