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Important Social Security Q&A on 10 topics
John Csiszar explains the importance of having an understanding of how Social Security operates, particularly since for about half of older adults, it comprises more than 50% of their income. Details about Social Security can be complicated, but there are…
How to Earn the Social Security Max Benefit
When people see that the Social Security maximum benefit is $4,194 per month, folks often ask, “who gets that, and how do I get that amount, as it’s way more than I’m getting?” Sam Swenson notes few even have a…
Be Careful When Claiming Social Security Early
While most people do indeed claim Social Security at age 62, in this article Maurie Backman urges that people ask themselves this question first: Can I mostly live on the income my savings and investments will provide? If yes, then…
No 4th stimulus but other assistance available
Rumors started in October 2001 and continue making the rounds in some media about a fourth stimulus check. Dana George addresses that, reminding folks that there is no active consideration of such a scheme. Of course, it was the third…
What to do in a dangerous year to retire
The year 2022 is a challenging one for those wanting to retire. Greg Iacurci of CNBC highlights a rare and worrisome combination for new retirees—stocks and bonds are down and inflation is high. “Sequence of returns” risk is acute for…
Claiming Social Security at 62 Might Bring Remorse Later
Selena Maranjian notes that claiming Social Security at 62 is the most common age for filers. Some have little choice, as their health or financial situation or both is dire. But more shortchange themselves by claiming at 62. Why? Maranjian…
Nearing Retirement? Here are 3 Financial Lessons for Retirees
Certified Financial Planner Tony Drake says it is important for people to educate themselves as they plan for retirement, lest they make one of three big mistakes. Maintaining the same or a similar standard of living requires planning, preferably a…
Reasons You Could Get Stuck With a Tinier Social Security Check
Maurie Backman cautions folks about slip ups along the way to retirement that could leave folks with a much lower amount than anticipated. What are these? The usual suspects are of course not working 35 years. A zero is added…
Will Social Security Be There When People Need It?
According to Northwestern Mutual’s 2022 Planning & Progress Study, 44% of Americans don’t think Social Security will be there for them when it’s time to claim benefits. Maurie Backman explains Social Security’s looming insolvency. She explains the difference between benefit cuts…
You Might Regret Your Early Social Security Claim
Christy Bieber explains that most people do not wait for full retirement age (FRA), which is soon to be 67 for all, before starting benefits. That choice can have dire consequences. It permanently shrinks one’s monthly benefit to begin any…