The Good Stuff
A friend once told me that if she'd known all the good stuff she could get when she retired (and turned 65) she would have done it sooner!
**Click here for a comprehensive list of discounts, updated quarterly.
1) Most major store chains offer discounts to seniors. Sometimes you have to ask for it, so don't be shy. Always have ID with you.
2) Most municipalities offer a modest price break to seniors for monthly transit passes. Many taxi companies also offer a modest discount - always ask.
3) The New Brunswick Community Transportation Service is a provincial network of non-profit organizations that offer affordable, accessible transportation through volunteer drivers. Click here for a list.
The most common reasons for someone needing a drive are to get to:
- Medical appointments, including longer rides to other regions for care
- Government offices
- Grocery store, pharmacy, bank
It's best to book ahead.
4) In some communities, you may have access to an Adult Day Centre. Some examples of what may be offered are supervised individual or group activities, personal care, snacks and nutritious meals. Click here for more information, and here for a list of centres in New Brunswick.
5) If you have a simple tax situation and a modest income, you may qualify to get your income tax done for free, at tax clinics held in March and April. To find a tax clinic near you, click here.
6) Some tax benefits or credits you could be eligible for include:
- Disability Tax Credit. To find out if you qualify, click here. To download the form to apply, click here. If you are eligible for this credit, you may also qualify for the First-Time Home Buyers Tax Credit, even if you're not a first-time home buyer.
- Home Renovation Tax Credit - If you need to make changes to your home that will make it safer and more accessible, you may be eligible to claim up to $10000 on your tax return. To learn more, click here. These changes must be done by a professional.
- Low Income Seniors Benefit - to learn more click here.
7) If you are a homeowner or renter, and have a low income, you may qualify for:
- Rent Supplement Program - you may be eligible for subsidized rental - check it out here.
- Emergency Fuel Benefit - if you are having problems with the costs of winter heating, click here to see if you qualify for this benefit.
- Enhanced Energy Savings Program -homeowners may be eligible for free home efficiency upgrades. Check it out here.
- Home-owner Repair Program - if you have low income and need to make minor changes to your home so that you can get around more easily and safely (such as ramps, grab bars, railings) you may qualify for financial help. Check it out here.
8) Parking permit
- If you have a physical disability, you can get a temporary or permanent parking placard to hang in the window of a vehicle to be able to park in marked spots that are closer to buildings. Here is the form to apply. Note that portions of the form will need to be completed by your doctor, nurse practitioner, occupational therapist, or physiotherapist.