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Social Security Milestones
The Motley Fool’s Sean Williams provides a review of the historical milestones that have shaped Social Security since its 1935 inception. Understanding these milestones is beneficial to understanding how the program has evolved to it’s present state of being. Read his…
The Upside of Delaying Retirement
“Slightly more than half of households today are at risk of experiencing a lower standard of living when they retire, compared to 30 percent in 1989.” So says an article posted by Bankrate’s Taylor Tepper today on www.bankrate.com. As a…
So, when do you want to start receiving Social Security payments?
Tom Margenau, in a post today on tucson.com, explains the timing of initial benefits payments. His comments are in reply to a reader describing a misunderstanding on a basic question from the Social Security application process. While the confusion might…
Some Strategies for Accessing Retirement Savings Early
Sometimes, the best laid plans for financial peace in retirement years just doesn’t work out as envisioned, and you need to have access to those funds. Forbes contributor Ashlea Ebeling takes a look at some strategies for accomplishing this access with…
Unraveling the “Hold Harmless” Conundrum
It’s confusing to a number of people (well, to most people, actually), but despite a 2% Social Security COLA, their overall income level will not be increasing. Investment News Contributing Editor Mary Beth Franklin takes a look at the impact…
Understanding the Benefits
Basics
Questions and answers about spousal benefits
Switching from spousal benefits to retirement benefits, when is a spouse eligible for benefits, and when should a spouse actually start their benefit, are all questions answered in this column by Laurence Kotlikoff appearing at Forbes.com. Mr. Kotlikoff is a nationally…
What they don’t tell you about retirement
If you think of your retirement as being a long vacation for the rest of your life, you may be in for some surprises along the way. While most advisors stay focused on the financial aspects of your golden years…
How disability benefits may affect Medicaid qualification
Medicaid has a monthly income limit which, if exceeded, could cause a person to lose their qualification for those important healthcare services. A disabled person who is awarded Social Security Disability Insurance benefits might find themselves in a position where their…
Things you should know about spousal benefits
Spousal benefits are arguably one of the most misunderstood elements of the Social Security program. From the amount a spouse will get to who is even eligible is often a subject of confusion, causing some to miss out on benefits…