Medicaid Reimbursement, Free Tax Help, and Lowering Your Car Insurance

February 28, 2025


There are many issues that we need to address at the State Capitol. One of them is adjusting Medicaid reimbursement rates. Please read below to learn how we plan to increase rates for providers, which will help your bottom line.

You may have received your W-2s and other forms, which means it's time to start working on your tax returns. There are several reputable services offering help for free. I'll let you know who is eligible.

Affordable car insurance is important for everyone, but it's even more vital for our seniors and those approaching that age bracket. Keep scrolling to learn how those drivers get discounts.

Here are the sections in today's email:

  • Medicaid Reimbursement Rates
  • Free Resources to File Your Taxes
  • How To Lower Your Car Insurance
 
Medicaid Reimbursement Rates
Legislative leaders announced a proposal to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for providers, which is long overdue. A recent state Medicaid Rate Study found that Connecticut lags well behind peer states when paying providers under Connecticut’s Medicaid program. Many areas of care are currently reimbursed at the same levels they were in 2007.
Increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates is a worthy investment, which will provide essential medical services to our children and seniors, here in Waterbury.
 
Free Resources to File Your Taxes

There are several free resources available this year for anyone who needs to file state and federal taxes.

You can use the IRS Direct File Tool, which is a new option for anyone who lived and earned all their income in Connecticut last year.
Click here for more information on IRS Direct File Tool

The federal government is also offering the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which offers free tax preparation services to eligible taxpayers. Here is some of the eligibility data for VITA:

  • Household income less than $68,000
  • If self-employed, business expenses should be less than $35,000
  • No income from a rental property

You can schedule an appointment at:

  • Children’s Community School at 23 John Street
  • Duggan School at 38 West Porter Street
  • Naugatuck Valley Community College at 750 Chase Parkway
  • New Opportunities at 232 North Elm Street
  • Waterbury Housing Authority at 2 Lakewood Road
  • Waterbury Youth Services at 83 Prospect Street
CLICK HERE to book your appointment now!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to save money when filing your taxes!
 
How To Lower Your Car Insurance

Affordable car insurance is a necessity for people of all ages, but it holds particular significance for individuals who are 60 and older. Because this demographic often faces unique challenges and mobility needs, ensuring access to reasonably priced car insurance is vital.

Please read below to learn how drivers in that age group can get informed about and register for an accident prevention course to get discounts on car insurance.

Senior driving is often key in maintaining independence, especially in areas where public transportation is unreliable. For older adults, a car often represents a lifeline to health care appointments, grocery stores, social engagements, and visits with loved ones. Ensuring affordable car insurance allows seniors to remain active in their communities.

Many people aged 60 and older live on fixed incomes, and rising insurance premiums can strain their budgets. Locking into an affordable insurance rate would provide financial stability for seniors.

By prioritizing and offering car insurance affordability, we can create a more inclusive society that values the mobility and independence of all its members, regardless of age.