Eastern Agency on Aging is abuzz with activity. We have important dates for you to remember and information to share regarding the new Medicare prescription drug benefit, part D. We also are offering to help people complete their Tax and Rent Rebate forms.

But before I get to all that – good news. They’re here. For those of you who have been waiting for the Files of Life to come in, your patience has paid off. If you would like a File of Life, the magnetized pocket that attaches to a refrigerator and contains medical and contact information in case of an emergency, call EAA at 941-2865. We will be happy to mail you one, free of charge.

Every senior should have one. You never know when an ambulance will be needed, and it’s important that the responding EMTs have complete and current information. This is the best way to ensure that you are provided the very best care possible. The file has a section for prescriptions, diseases or conditions, surgeries, insurance information and allergies.

It comes with a red File of Life sticker for your front door that will alert emergency personal to look on the refrigerator for your medical information. There is even a smaller version for a wallet in case of an emergency outside the home.

And a very special thanks to Charlie Sias for getting the files to us. He always delivers, and never lets down EAA and the senior population.

Now for the new Medicare prescription drug benefit, part D. There are some dates to keep in mind.

On Saturday, Oct. 1, the companies offering prescription drug plans can start marketing them. Not before. If you are contacted by someone offering to sign you up now, or pressuring you with promises of a special deal, it is probably a scam. The only reason a company can contact you before Oct. 1 is to familiarize you with its product and give you basic information.

Keep in mind that some of these companies may be Medicare-approved, but some may not, so protect yourself and don’t give personal information over the phone. If you have questions about a particular drug plan, call EAA. We’ll help you check it out.

Other dates to remember:

. Nov. 15. The day you actually can sign up for a prescription drug plan.

. Nov. 16. EAA will hold a large “sign-up session” to help you find a plan. You’ll hear more about that as time draws near.

. Jan. 1, 2006. The Medicare prescription drug benefit takes effect.

. May 15, 2006. That is the last day you can sign up for the Medicare benefit without incurring a penalty. If you have questions regarding the penalty, call EAA.

Now, onward to the Tax and Rent Rebate forms. If you got a rebate last year and have received a pre-printed form in the mail this year, use it. If not, forms are available here at EAA. The guidelines on maximum income have increased significantly, so it is worth taking a look. The rebates range from $10 to $2,000.

The guidelines for seniors are as follows, per the application: 62 years of age or older, and an income limit of $12,400 for one person, or $15,300 for two.

If you are over income guidelines, your application will roll over into the general population, which has a higher limit.

“We are having help sessions, by appointment, on Tuesdays to help people complete the form,” said Val Sauda, director of outreach at EAA. “Applying is always a good idea. It’s easy and could translate into some extra money in your pocket.”

Carol Higgins is director of communications at EAA. For more information, call 941-2865, log on www.eaaa.org, or e-mail info@eaaa.org.