Oct. 1 is just around the corner. What will happen? The 2010 federal budget goes into effect without a cost of living increase in Social Security benefits. In fact, those who have Plan D will see a decrease in their monthly income because it doesn’t have the same protection against deflation, as does Plan B. Plan D will cost more. Plan B remains the same.

What does it mean to those on fixed income? Their quality of life will suffer, their struggles will increase, and yet many jurisdictions want new fee and tax increases that will exceed the money people need to survive. Many will be forced to take out a reverse mortgage or move out, both of which have undesirable consequences.

No cost of living increase for those on fixed income will dramatically impact their way of life. For those who are fortunate enough to weather the economic storm, higher fees and taxes will not improve their ability to maintain and improve their quality of life. And yet, there will be new increases in fees and taxes on the ballot. If approved, some people will suffer more than others. A few might benefit. Will you?

Robert L. Style, Kirkland