Latest News
What to Expect for Social Security Changes in 2026
As is usually the case, 2026 will bring several program changes to Social Security. For example, there will likely be a cost-of-living increase in 2026. It is currently estimated at 2.5%. The full retirement age will be officially age 67…
Enhancing Your Social Security Online Account Security
Social Security is adding a “Security Authentication PIN (SAP) feature to your My Social Security Account Online account in August 2025. This is an optional feature. It is designed to make your identiy verification process faster and more secure when…
Help Mananging Your Social Security Benefit
If you feel you need help managing your Social Security benefits, Social Security will assist you in finding a representative payee. You may choose your own representative payee. You want to choose someone you can trust. They will recieve your…
New Tax Deduction for Qualifying Donations in 2026
Beginning in 2026, as a result of President Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” you will be able to write off your charitable donations without having to itemize on your tax return. Singles will be able to write-off up to $1,000 and…
Increasing enrollment in Medicare Advantage
Enrollment in Medicare Advantage (MA) plans has steadily increased in recent years, currently accounting for over half (54 percent) of all Medicare recipients. Along with increased enrollment, Medicare payments to MA plans continue to outpace traditional Medicare spending. The Congressional…
Accuracy of 2025 COLA could be in question
This article by Trevor Jennewine for The Motley Fool postulates that President Trump’s federal employee hiring freeze may affect the amount of the 2025 COLA. Of course, this could go either way, either higher or lower than it should be.…
Social Security to start deducting for Overpayments
Originally, the overpayment reduction to benefits was 100% of the benefit amount until the debt was paid. In March 2024, the reduction was reduced to 10%. Then, in March 2025 it was changed back to 100%. As of April 2025…
Social Security may be limiting phone services – again
Earlier this year, the Trump Administration announced a plan to reduce fraud by limiting the availability of phone services to recipients. Because of the pushback from the news media and the public, that plan was abandoned. The new version would…
Accuracy of Social Security reporting on customer service issues questioned
Senator Warren has asked for detailed data concerning the wait times for phone calls/ Commissioner Bisignano has agreed to increased data reporting and transparency. Suzanne Blake reporting for Newsweek discusses here… Notice: The link provided above connects readers to the full…
Ninety Years of Social Security
Social Security payments are a lifeline for millions of Americans. This year the program is 90 years old. Although many changes have happened over the years, at this point in time, Social Security desperately in need of reform. Beth Sterns…