Latest News
The Benefits of a “my Social Security” Account
The creation of a personal account with the Social Security Administration can help you interact effectively with the agency. As explained by Vonda Vantil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist, there are several solid benefits you can realize, from saving time…
Your Retirement Finances and Longevity
Kiplinger Online Editor Bob Niedt says in the opening to his post, it’s critical for your retirement plans to “Consider all the ways you may run out of money in retirement — and the steps you can take to avoid…
A Look Behind the Jobs Report
While recent reports of job creation bode promising for the economic recovery, a deeper dive into the statistics shows a troubling situation for many future retirees. In addition to the number of workers sidelined for long periods facing in an interruption…
Retirement Planning: It’s More than Just Your Savings
Many folks developing a solid retirement financial plan tend to focus on just the amount of cash they need to generate replacement income. But, as The Motley Fool’s Christy Bieber points out in a post on statesville.com, it’s a lot more than that.…
Counterpoint: Why Take Social Security at Age 67?
Another article posted today discusses why it could be smart to claim your Social Security benefits at age 62. In this article by Maurie Backman appearing in the Stateville (NC) Record & Landmark, the author makes the case for waiting…
The Insecurity of Social Security
All experts and Social Security scholars agree that the COVID-19 pandemic will worsen the already difficult financial situation Social Security is faced with in the not-too-distant future. Even before the coronavirus hit the Trustees were projecting that, with expenses now…
Why Take Social Security at Age 62?
Provided you’re in good health and expect average longevity, most financial advisors will recommend waiting until you are 70 to claim Social Security. That’s because your benefits grow for each month you delay, earning an 8% bonus for each year…
Bipartisan Bill Offers Fix For “COVID-19 Notch” Issue Affecting Those Born in 1960
Much has been written recently about how Social Security benefits for those turning 60 this year will be hurt due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Often referred to as being in the “pandemic notch,” those born in 1960 and who turn 60 in 2020…
When Will the Medicare Trust Fund Run Dry?
With all the activity in Washington these days focused on a new stimulus package, one thing that isn’t getting a lot of attention is the Medicare Trust Fund, known as the “HI” (Health Insurance) Fund. The HI trust fund, which…
Another Stimulus Package? What Will It Look Like?
Talks about another economic relief (stimulus) package are ongoing in Washington, but not much detail has yet been revealed. So, how can you plan if you don’t yet know? Well, the best advice is to assume that you won’t get…