Latest News
Bill Would Change Social Security
A legislative bill to be soon introduced in Congress would make changes to the Social Security program, increasing benefits for many, changing how COLA (cost of living adjustment) is computed, and increasing payroll taxes on higher earners. This, of course,…
A Social Security Primer
Social Security is, inarguably, the nation’s most important poverty reduction program, providing monthly benefits to over 65 million Americans. But despite its importance, a large portion of those who will one day almost certainly rely on Social Security know precious…
Nest Egg Withdrawals During a Bear Market
Some say we’re already in a recession, while others say recession is only near. Regardless of who’s right, one thing is for sure – the stock market has been very volatile, with the trend decidedly downward. And withdrawing investments to…
Social Security, on the Horizon (2023)
The year 2023 is fast approaching and, as is normal, along with its arrival will come several changes to the Social Security program. The change getting much national attention right now is expressed in often breathless predictions of a historically…
Decision Time Approaching for those on Medicare
If you haven’t noticed from the up-tick in TV commercials about Medicare coverage, take notice here – the Medicare Annual Election Period, sometimes called Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period, is just a couple short weeks away, starting on October 15th. This…
A Woman’s View of Spouse Benefits
It’s absolutely true that women have made significant strides in the American workplace, and are now often the primary breadwinner in the family. But historically, woman have also traditionally faced a unique dilemma with Social Security due to the so-called…
Is Social Security Reform Even Possible?
Much as been written recently about the importance of reforming America’s most important retirement program – Social Security. Hyperbolic articles are published in newspapers and magazines almost daily, TV commentators regularly espouse the need for change, and blogs and websites…
The Pros and Cons of Early Retirement
Who among us hasn’t fantasized about an early retirement – perhaps in our 40s or 50s – to claim our share of the American dream? It’s certainly a pleasant thought, but one which is probably not possible for most, and…
About Deciding When to Claim Social Security
Deciding when you should claim Social Security can be a perplexing dilemma. Understanding all of the nuances associated with that decision is an elusive goal – so much so that many are tempted to simply throw up their hands and…
A Sobering View of the Expected Big COLA Increase
Some pundits are forecasting a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) upwards of 11% for 2023. Realistically, however, a study of this year’s third quarter inflation rate so far suggests a more moderate, but nevertheless historic, increase to your monthly Social…