Headlines
Allow “Phasing In” Social Security Benefits?
In this interesting opinion piece, one erudite expert suggests that Social Security should offer an option to allow phasing into retirement. This would be done by permitting one to first collect only a portion of their Social Security benefit early,…
Is Even Discussing Fiscal Sanity a “no no?”
Is the partisan divide in Congress so great that even entertaining ideas to deal with the ever burgeoning national debt is an unacceptable concept? Or is discussing reform of programs which will soon become insolvent (Social Security and Medicare) completely…
About Reforming Social Security
As we roll into this presidential election year, campaign rhetoric is already heightening, especially about Social Security. Most candidates pledge “not to touch” Social Security, while simultaneously suggesting that cutting the program is high on their opponent’s agenda. President Biden…
In a Sea of Red Ink, should Congress Seek Fiscal Reform?
With the national debt now exceeding $33 Trillion, and Social Security and Medicare facing insolvency in less than a decade, it’s hard for the average American to understand why anyone would oppose Congress seeking ways to restore fiscal stability. Then…
The Social Security earnings test
You can start your Social Security retirement benefits at 62 but at a reduced rate. According to statistics released by the Social Security Administration, almost 30 percent of Americans eligible for Social Security begin to receive their benefits at 62.…
The three-legged stool
The newest data from Allianz finds that 22 percent of Americans currently working hope to retire in 2024. Unfortunately, these soon-to-be retirees will discover the much talked about “three-legged stool” no longer applies to most people. What is a “three-legged…
Marriage and retirement
Most people think life after retirement is full of excitement and fun, endless golf games and pickleball. You can spend a lot of time with your spouse and cross things off your bucket list, but things can be otherwise if…
Does your state tax Social Security benefits?
The Internal Revenue Service announced Jan. 29, 2024, as the official start date of the 2024 tax season when the agency will begin accepting and processing 2023 tax returns. Some retirees will not need to file if their total income…
AFGE Issues Urgent Appel for Increased Funding
The American Federation of Government Employees, representing three-quarters of a million federal employees, yesterday declared the Social Security Administration (SSA) to be “an agency in crisis,” outlining its case for $20 billion in a proposed supplemental funding package over the…
Paying FICA Tax While Drawing Social Security Benefits
Many folks remain in the workforce after claiming their Social Security retirement benefits, some on a part time basis, some full time. Often one of their beliefs is that continuing to be subject to the payroll tax—the FICA tax—will increase…