WASHINGTON, Oct. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- A new study released today by Americans for Secure Retirement (ASR) shows that women are at greater risk than men to experience a decrease in living standards in retirement. Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones, member of the House Ways and Means Committee, has introduced The Retirement Security for Life Act (H.R. 819/S. 381), which would help all Americans, particularly women, maintain economic security throughout their golden years by encouraging the use of lifetime annuities as a way to ensure a steady stream of income in retirement.

The Social Security Administration announced Friday that their cost of living adjustment, or COLA, for more than 50 million beneficiaries would increase 4.1% in January. That's the biggest jump since a 5.4% gain in 1991. Last year's increase was 2.7%.

The average Social Security check will increase from $963 to $1,002 in January.

  Important dates for Medicare's prescription
  drug program
   
   * Oct 1: Medicare recipients begin receiving mailings from companies offering 23 plans. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services mails the 2006 "Medicare & You" handbook to all beneficiaries, with plan details.
   * Oct. 13: Medicare launches a new Web page to help recipients compare plans and prices. The "Personal Plan Finder" will be available at http://www.Medicare.gov. People without Internet access can call 1-800-MEDICARE for help.
   * Nov. 15: Enrollment period begins, with beneficiaries being able to sign up electronically, by phone or by mail.
   * Dec. 31: The last day for enrollment for people who want coverage to begin on Jan. 1.
   * May 15: Last day to enroll in plans without facing a penalty for late enrollment. Medicare-approved drug discount cards can be used until May 15th, or when enrollment in a Medicare drug plan takes effect, if happens sooner.

The Bush administration announced 10 new plans will be available for Medicare Part D

Don't get confused, here's another Roth version

The story of a retiree trying to understand their pension

Nearly one third of Americans fail to take advantage of 401k plans

Interesting health care proposal

...just saw the Eagles on TV last night..enjoy all the groups this summer

This guy has given a lot of thought to baby boomers and stock prices

congress presents some ideas