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Social Security Bridging Strategy–Will it Work For Your Situation?
Planning a strategic approach to a Social Security claiming strategy requires serious thought and discussion with qualified advisors and. Depending on your situation, a “bridge strategy” is often recommended to maximize benefits conveniently. In simple terms, a “bridge strategy” is…
Judging COLA’s Adequacy
Much has been written about the annual Social Security cost-of-living adjustment process, from explaining how the formula works to opinions on its effectiveness in keeping seniors above poverty lines. With the 2025 benefit increase coming in at 2.5%, down from…
Now’s a Good Time to Review Your Social Security Information
It’s the start of a new year, so before time gets away from you, now might be a good time to re-examine the information you’ve been accumulating relative to Social Security. Even if you’re not ready–or able–to file for benefits,…
Long-term care facilities enhance lives of Veterans
As a Veteran, you may be able to get assisted living, residential (live-in), or home health care through the VA. The VA provides long-term care services to over 500,000 Veterans, from those with traumatic brain injuries to those who need…
COLA Watch: Early Warning Signs for 2026
Even though the 2025 Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) isn’t through its first month, the pundits are sounding the alarm for 2026. Forecasts ranging from .06% to 2.1% are being floated based on what some believe to be a lengthy…
3-year Treasury/SSA Fraud Prevention Interaction Produces Results
In these days of trillion-dollar discussions involving Social Security’s long-term financing, it may not be that big a deal, but the recovery of millions of dollars of improper payments to deceased individuals is still worthy of note. Current projections are…
A Quick Review of Basics and the Common Mistakes Folks Make on Social Security
“Common Social Security mistakes and what you need to know” is the theme of a post on Fox2Detroit’s Wealth Wednesday segment. The post features an interview with the Retirement Education Foundation’s Michael Masserant discussing the importance of understanding all of Social…
The 2025 Veterans Benefits Guide is now available
Are you a veteran? First, thank you for your service. Second, have you obtained your copy of the “2025 VA Federal Benefits Guide for Veterans, Dependents, Survivors, and Caregivers?” The handbook contains a comprehensive listing of VA programs, including phone…
Resumption of Past-Due Student Debt May Impact Many Retirees
As if the continuing rise in the cost of living isn’t enough, nearly half a million Social Security beneficiaries carrying past-due student debt are facing the potential of “harsh consequences.” As explained in a money.com post by Pete Grieve, the…
Does Medicare Advantage have better access to extra services?
A study by researchers at Mass General Brigham found that despite Medicare Advantage plans offering enhanced dental, vision, and hearing services, Medicare Advantage beneficiaries did not outperform their traditional Medicare counterparts in utilizing these benefits. Todd Shryock asks whether Medicare…