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What to Know About Spouse Benefits
This article by Bram Berkowitz for The Motley Fool explains spouse benefits. When a non working spouse did not qualify for Social Security on their own there is an option for them to apply for a spouse benefit from the…
How to Achieve Maximum Social Security Benefits
In this article by Stefon Walters for the Motley Fool the significance of the wage base limit is discussed. This is the highest income earned that pays Social Security taxes. For 2025, you will not pay Social Security tax if…
How to Advise Social Security of Any Life Changes
It’s important to advise Social Security if you have changes such as marriage, divorce, death of a spouse, adoption of a child. Your address, phone number or direct deposit information can be updated with your online account. For more information…
Amount Needed to Qualify for Social Security Credits Going up in 2025
Americans earn up to four credits per year to qualify for Social Security benefits in their later years. The 2024 amount is $1,730. In 2025 it will increase to $1,810. Those who work full time will not be affected by…
Too Many Make This Social Security Mistake in Retirement
Maurie Backman cautions those nearing retirement of one of the single greatest mistakes people make when it comes to Social Security. The program was never designed to be a sole source of income in retirement, as it replaces a mere…
2025 Retirement Changes: 401k plans, RMDs, IRAs, and more
The SECURE Act 2.0 passed by Congress in 2022 was designed to make saving for retirement a little easier. Robin Hartill explains how. The Act pushed back the required minimum distribution (RMD) age from 72 to 73 in 2023, and…
5 Steps to Take Now for a Different Retirement Than Your Parents
Martin Dasko writes at gobankingrates.com that The 2024 Everyday Wealth In America report from Edelman Financial Engines discovered that 37% of Americans want a different retirement from previous generations. The survey found 42% want something more active, 39% want something more adventurous, and 37%…
The 5 Biggest Changes to Social Security in 2025
Rachael Christian’s piece here in The Seattle Times notes The Social Security Administration’s recent announcement of its annual cost of living adjustment (COLA) of 2.5%, taking the average check for retired workers from $1,927 to $1,976. Four other notable changes are:…
Is Living Abroad Cheaper for U.S. Retirees?
This as-told-to essay in Business Insider is based on a conversation with Norman Bour, 70, who, along with his wife, left the US for Europe to live abroad in 2019. This California bay boomer writes about his experiences and tips…
More Retirees Will Owe Taxes on Social Security Benefits in 2025
Some retirees are in for a shock next year. Christy Bieber reminds folks here that retirees do not have to pay taxes on benefits until their provisional income equals $25k for single tax filers or $32k for married filers. Once…