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What to know if considering a Social Security office visit
Rachel Hartman of U.S. News has a piece here about what to do and know ahead of going for an in person visit to a local Social Security office. After two years of the pandemic, offices are opening up. She…
Max Social Security benefit unattainable for most
Christy Bieber explains why most folks will never get the maximum monthly benefit for Social Security, currently $4,194 per month. In short, you would need to have made or exceeded the maximum wage cap, thus paying FICA tax on that…
Delaying Social Security for More Money Is Overrated
This article by Stefon Walters is somewhat of a contrarian with his piece here arguing the delaying benefits for higher monthly payouts is not advised. Most financial experts argue to wait as long as possible to start Social Security (to…
Can I Collect Both Social Security Disability and Unemployment?
Although it would be highly unusual since Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are only awarded to those who cannot work for at least one year and benefits only start 6 months after SSDI benefits are approved, there are no…
Funding Your Retirement
Short on funding sources for your retirement? Traditional defined-benefit employer pension plans are fast becoming a thing of the past. And Social Security – never intended to be your sole source of retirement money – may turn out to be…
Choosing Between Paying for Your Child’s Education, and Saving for Your Retirement
In this somewhat conflicted article appearing in Barron’s magazine, retirement contributor Gail MarksJarvis seems to chastise parents who pay for their children’s college education without simultaneously saving enough for their own future retirement. The article’s intent – to encourage parents…
The Basics of Medicare
Medicare can be a confusing topic. There are several different “parts” of Medicare, each with a different purpose and cost. There are private “Medigap” plans which cover healthcare costs which Medicare doesn’t cover, and Medicare Advantage plans which can be…
Three Social Security Facts to Know Before You Claim
Deciding when to claim Social Security may be one of the most important financial decisions of your life, and there are some basic factors you should know before making that decision. Your claim age relative to your full retirement age…
Returning to Work after You’re On Medicare
It’s a reality of today’s economy and higher life expectancies – many people who retired are returning to work, either to supplement their retirement income, or because they want to stay active as they age. Whatever the reason, if you…
Can You Get the Maximum Possible Social Security Benefit?
The maximum possible Social Security benefit in 2022 is $4,194, but there really aren’t many beneficiaries who will be able to reach that goal. That’s because to do so would mean you would have to have had earnings equal to…