Make sure you have the information you need to protect your memories, money, and belongings from moving problems.

The best defense against moving difficulties is to be informed and aware of your options when choosing a reputable mover. While most household moves go smoothly, there are many pitfalls that you should be aware of. It can also be stressful, even under the best of circumstances. Use the checklist here to help guide you through the moving venture.

A key step is to read and understand all information provided by the mover. These should include the following basic documents as part of your move:

Estimates
The estimate should clearly describe, in writing, all charges for services the mover will perform. Make sure the estimate is signed by the mover.
Do not accept oral estimates.

Order for Service
The order for service is a list of all the services the mover will perform and shows the dates your household goods will be picked up and delivered.

Bill of Lading
The bill of lading is a contract between you and the mover and a receipt of your belongings. You should be given a partially completed copy of the bill of lading before the mover leaves the residence at origin.

The inventory is the receipt showing each item you shipped and its condition. Be sure you receive a written copy of the inventory after your household goods are loaded, and that you agree with its description of your household goods' condition

Get state regulator help:

DELEG - Public Service Commission - Motor Carrier Division

517-241-6030

Real Estate Agents: Buy or Sell

Interested in Buying or Selling a Home or Condo? Whenever possible your inquiry goes to a Specialist trained to work with seniors from over 800 such specialists in our International referral network. Having a Professional Specialist contact you, is just a click away! Fill out the inquiry form and we do the rest.

Aging In Place

"Aging in place" is growing older without having to move. Aging in place with supportive services is one of the most desirable ways of aging. Aging in place can achieve efficiencies enabled by the customized care. Successful aging in place approaches focus on the provision of the most appropriate care for the specific individual. Thus avoiding wasted costs brought on by a "generic" care model. An aging in place scenario, creates housing and health care options to provide support as defined by an individualís wishes and efforts to live independently. Aging in place can work best when it is employed as a part of a comprehensive plan for retirement and aging. A key step in implementing aging in place is to make your home aging friendly. As we age we don't hear so well, we sometimes forget or get confused and we can even outlive doctor's predictions about our longevity. So as long as we persist in growing older, why not arrange our homes to accommodate our reality. Incorporate memory triggers into the way we arrange cabinets and counters, add soft fabrics to muffle background noises, change appliances to better accommodate our short-comings. Here is a book to help you make your homes senior-friendly. Universal Design: A Step-by-Step Guide to Modifying Your Home for Comfortable, Accessible Living The book, Universal Design: A Step-by-Step Guide to Modifying Your Home for Comfortable, Accessible Living by Barbara Krueger and Nika Stewart is a good place to start.With the book as a guide you can plan ahead for years before you critically need the advantages offered by the ideas in the book. Also visit: the Universal Design Living Laboratory:A National Demonstration Home at http://www.UDLL.com by Rosemarie Rossetti, PhD If you want to learn more visit our Aging in place section . Once you have an idea of the changes needed in the home, it is time to discuss the changes with a contractor/builder in your area. Below is a list of of such providers in your area.

Aging In Place Contractors

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State Department of Insurance

Insurance regulations differ from state to state. Need help with an insurance company provider? Want to know who writes Medigap insurance in your state? Contact: Insurance Bureau PO Box 30220 Lansing, MI 48909 517.373.0240 (General Assistance) 517.335.1702 (Senior Issues)

State Regulations for Assisted Living and Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's Unit Requirements set by Department of Michigan Services to Aging 517.373.8810 Specialized programs of care, such as in Alzheimer's "wings" require a special program, environment, and staffing to meet the needs of these residents.

Assisted Living Regulations

Assisted Living Regulatory Information Department of Michigan Services to Aging 231.929.2531 Homes for the Aged A Home for the Aged is a supervised personal-care facility that provides a room and supervised personal care to 21 or more unrelated individuals who are 60 years of age or older. Facilities may also provide assistance with activities of daily living.

Taxes

• Personal Income Tax
• Tax Rate: Flat rate of 4% of federal adjusted gross income.

  • Some cities impose additional income taxes.
• Personal Exemptions: $3,000 for singles and $6,000 for marrieds and $2,700 for each exemption over 65.
• Standard Deduction: 0
• Medical/Dental Deduction 0.
• Federal Income Tax Deduction: 0.
• Public Pension Exclusion: Full.
  
• Private Pension Exclusion: $43,440 for singles, $86,880 for marrieds filing jointly.
• Social Security Exemption: Full.
• Sales Tax: 6% (Food and prescription drugs exempt)
  
  For further information see Michigan Department of Treasury.