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How to lose Social Security benefits
As advisors, we’re usually asked how to maximize Social Security benefits. But equally important for most people is how to avoid losing Social Security benefits, which could quite easily occur if you don’t know and understand Social Security’s myriad rules. In this…
Don’t fall victim to these retirement myths!
There are so many myths out there about Social Security and retirement, it’s hard to count them. Some are innocuous, but some can really hurt you, such as thinking you can live on Social Security benefits alone, or believing that…
Now is a good time to assess your Social Security position
As we approach a new decade, now is a good time for those approaching Social Security age to evaluate where they stand when it comes to their future retirement – and Social Security will undoubtedly play an important role in that…
Social Security basics you should know
Few would argue that Social Security isn’t a complex program, and rightfully so. The program actually has over 2,700 rules and regulations as expressed in over 100,000 pages of information on their website, covering every conceivable circumstance which might affect the more…
Why must I still pay Social Security payroll taxes?
In a question received by The AMAC Foundation’s Social Security Advisory Service, a reader laments that he must still pay Social Security FICA payroll taxes at work, even though he’s already collecting Social Security benefits. The questioner asks whether he should get…
The “next-best” age for Claiming Social Security (beside age 70)
In something of an anti-climatic muse, the author of this article suggests (by quoting a financial expert) that while you can get your maximum Social Security benefit at age 70, there is a “next best” age at which to claim…
Disabled workers face Social Security conundrum
Those who collect Social Security disability benefits – either standard “SSDI” (Social Security Disability Income), or “SSI” (Supplemental Security Income) – face a growing conundrum if they try to work to supplement their meager benefits. Similarly, other means-tested benefit programs may be at…
Financial emergencies can be hazardous to your 401(k)
According to a recent Bankrate survey, almost half of Americans said they withdrew from their retirement accounts early because of unemployment, unexpected bills, and debt repayment. The survey found that 60 percent of households with income below $30,000 took money…
How to strengthen your retirement security
We all want to know the answer to this important question: How can I make sure I have enough money when I’m retired? In the attached column by Paul A. Merriman, founder of Merriman Wealth Management and author of numerous…
Choosing Medicare or not is one of the most important decisions pre-retirement
As 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 everyday, signing up for Medicare is one of the most important decisions you need to make pre-retirement. One question that many working individuals have: Should I switch to Medicare or stay on my employer…