Brenda Lyle – Florida Today
Q:We just moved to Florida and are still in boxes. Where to start?
By Brenda Lyle
A: Welcome to the Sunshine State! Whether you’re moving for retirement, family, or simply a love of warm weather and palm trees, starting a new chapter in Florida is exciting! Of course, with any big move, there are a few important steps you’ll need to take to get settled. Here’s a “new resident checklist” to walk you through some important items.
Establish Residency —Once your utilities and services are in place, apply for a REAL-ID compliant Florida driver’s license or ID card. Primary identification, such as a U.S. birth certificate, valid passport, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or naturalization and citizenship certificates is required. You’ll also need proof of your SSN with your Social Security card, W-2 form, paycheck stub, or a 1099. Finally, bring two proofs of Florida residency—for example, utility bills, a lease, or a bank statement. Legal name changed recently? Update your records with the Social Security Administration before applying.
The same office that issued your new driver’s license or I.D. card can help you register to vote. You can also do it online at www.RegistertoVoteFlorida.gov or by visiting the county Supervisor of Elections office or any Public Library. Register no later than 29 days before the election in which you wish to vote.
Update Government Programs —Once you’ve got your Florida ID, you can update your government programs. Notify Social Security and Medicare of your new address. Ensure your Medicare Advantage Plan covers Florida providers. And update your Part D prescription drug coverage too, so it’s valid in your new state. Florida Medicaid applications are through the MyACCESS Florida portal.
Update Financial and Legal Records —Now for updates to your financial and legal documents: Notify your bank, credit card companies, and other institutions of your new address to keep your accounts running smoothly. Since state laws can differ, you’ll want a Florida attorney to review your legal documents (wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance directives), to ensure they remain valid and enforceable.
Adjust to Florida Living —The perks of Florida living include year-round sunshine, beaches, and endless activities—but the climate can require adjustment. Heat and humidity can affect your health, so drink plenty of water, pace yourself outdoors, and talk to your doctor if you notice changes. Living in paradise also means preparing for hurricane season. Create your family’s plan before storms are on the radar. Use www.FloridaDisaster.org as a guide to preparations and essential supplies.
Get plugged into your new community! At One Senior Place in Viera and Altamont Springs, you’ll find opportunities to connect with local senior centers, physicians, community events, and onsite services. Building these relationships will help you feel at home faster.
Brenda Lyle is a Certified Care Manager and Certified Dementia Practitioner with One Senior Place, Greater Orlando. One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.
