Tanya Matthias with A Little Help in Denver presented this month’s program on A Little Talk. Three speakers, Peggy Budai with UCHealth presented Advanced Directives, Charlie Goldsmith with American Heart Assn. presented charity giving, and Cheri Mayott with Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) presented taxes.
Citizens Class
Peggy discussed all citizens should have a Medical Durable Power of Attorney (MDPOA) and a living will besides Advanced Directives at any adult age. Interestingly, 70% of people prefer to die at home versus at a hospital or nursing home. Another tragedy is one in four people complete a will. There is a recommend free booklet created by the Conversation Project that emphasizes discussing your dying or incapacitated wishes with your relatives. It recommends completing a will, MDPOA, Advanced Directives, approval to view patient records, Medical Orders Scope of Treatment, now rather than later! A Colorado Living Will should be completed if living less than six months. A CPR Directive is necessary if you don’t want to be revived.
Peggy recommended that UCHealth Aspen Club in Fort Collins and Greeley or the Health District of Northern Colorado in Fort Collins have the necessary forms and can help on completion.
Charlie recommended tax wise planning on qualified charity giving such as an IRA up to $100K not taxed for donors over 70 ½ years old. Donors can transfer stocks, bonds, and mutual funds as a donation and tax deductible including some real estate. Check with your tax advisor or charity on allowable tax deductions regarding charity giving.
Cheri indicated seniors over 65 are required to file taxes annually! VITA, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, provides free tax preparation for those under 60 with incomes under $60,000, and those 60 and over regardless of income. For free income tax return help, visit www.irs.gov/freetaxprep for a local listing of your tax preparers or call 1-800-906-9887.