Latest News
Medicare’s “Open Enrollment” Period Starts October 15th
In this timely article by Kate Ashford appearing at The Kenosha (WI) News, the author provides a complete run-down of the forthcoming Medicare Open Enrollment period, which goes from October 15 through December 7th. This is a time when those who…
Payroll Taxes, and How Social Security Works
In this article appearing at a CFP (Certified Financial Planner) informational website for professionals, CFP Ken Frank discusses the recent “payroll tax holiday” and how it may affect Social Security, but goes on to provide a very good overview of…
Do 401(k) Withdrawals Count as “Earnings” to Social Security?
Anyone who claims their Social Security before reaching full retirement age is subject to Social Security’s so-called “earnings test” which limits how much you can earn before they take back some of your benefits. But people are often confused about…
Increasingly Low Interest Rates Hurt Retirees
Low interest rates are great if you’re borrowing money. Indeed, who among us hasn’t shopped for the lowest possible mortgage rate or auto loan rate? And, while interest rates were reasonably low even before the coronavirus, the ongoing pandemic may…
New Online Video Service for Social Security Appeal Hearings
Appealing a Social Security decision often results in an in-person hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) who reviews all of the pertinent facts of the case, allows you to present your appeal in person, and renders an independent judgement. But in the age…
When It Makes Sense to Claim Social Security Early
Most advisors will counsel you to wait as long as possible to claim your Social Security benefits, and that’s usually very sage advice. But life is full of realities, and one reality is that it sometimes isn’t possible or prudent to…
About Social Security Fundamentals
Knowing at least the basics about Social Security is critical to make the right decision on when to claim. Do you know your full retirement age? Or how your benefit is calculated? Or even the types of benefit you may…
Supplementing Your Social Security Income
Most who collect benefits say that Social Security is a “major” part of their retirement income. But Social Security was never meant to be the sole source of income during retirement. Rather, the program was designed to only supplement your retirement income, leaving…
Medicare Open Enrollment During the Pandemic
The upcoming annual Medicare Open Enrollment Period is just around the corner, starting on October 15th and running through December 7th. This is the annual timeframe during which those eligible for Medicare can evaluate and, if appropriate, select a new Medicare…
Claiming Social Security Early May Be Right for You
Most people know that claiming benefits at age 62 means a benefit at least 25% less and, depending on your full retirement age, perhaps as much as 30% smaller. But life’s realities are such that sometimes claiming at age 62…