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The Best and Worst Ages to Claim Social Security
Spoiler alert: there is no one best of worst age to claim, because everyone’s personal situation is different. Nevertheless, research has shown that the most popular ages at which benefits are claimed (62 and 63) are usually not the best…
Social Security Disability: The Facts
In his own inimitable way, retired long time Social Security employee Tom Margenau tackles the myths surrounding Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Most prevalent among the misconceptions are that SSDI is easy to get, that a lot of people…
A Burning Question: When Should You Claim Social Security?
There is an 8 year window during which you may claim your Social Security retirement benefit, starting at age 62 and ending at age 70. Actually, claiming at age 70 isn’t mandatory, but there’s no reason to wait longer because…
Social Security: It’s Here to Stay
It may be somewhat of a “good news – bad news” situation, but make no mistake – Social Security isn’t going bankrupt and will be here for you in your golden years. So what is the bad news? Well, for…
The Role of Life Expectancy in Retirement Planning
“How can you plan for your retirement if you don’t know how long it will last?” A profound question, indeed, if you consider that your goal should be to have a large enough nest egg so that you don’t run…
Who is most (least) prepared for retirement?
A recent Vanguard survey found that 85 percent of Gen Z’ers surveyed said retirement benefits were a chief concern in their job hunts. Both Gen Z and millennials are saving more in their workplace retirement plans than previous generations due…
When someone dies
Social Security retirement benefits are paid in the month following the month for which they are due. It’s important to understand that Social Security only pays benefits for a specific month if the beneficiary was alive for the entire month.…
How to achieve the maximum amount
The maximum monthly Social Security benefit for 2024 is $4,555. There are three steps involved in achieving the maximum benefit. What are they, and can the average person achieve them? Keith Speight outlines the three steps and suggests even if…
Why you should prioritize saving for retirement
Saving for retirement can seem like a daunting task and one that you might think you do not need to be concerned with right now, especially if retirement is far off. Balancing financial priorities is tough, but choosing the right…
What is Medicare Part A
What Is Medicare Part A? Medicare Part A helps cover your inpatient care in hospitals, critical access hospitals, and skilled nursing facilities (not custodial or long-term care). It also helps cover hospice care and some home health care. You must…