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Ask Rusty – Working & Social Security
Dear Rusty: I recently turned 62, and have not yet filed for Social Security benefits. At this point my benefit based on my own record would be about $1,000 per month, but since I still work I know I would…
Representative payees help those who can’t manage their Social Security benefit.
For people who need help managing the financial aspects of their life, Social Security provides the option of having a “Representative Payee” set up, usually a trusted close family member or friend. This Terre Haut Tribune Star article by Social…
Could there be a COLA increase in 2018?
Although it’s way too early to know for sure, according to this Motley Fool article by Todd Campbell there are signs that next year we could see a 2.56% Cost Of Living Adjustment in our Social Security checks. We won’t…
Some things you should know before applying for Social Security
If you’ve been counting down the years until you reach that magical age of 62 when you can begin collecting your Social Security benefits, there are a few very important things you should know before you take that plunge. As…
The absolute worst reason for claiming Social Security early
Social Security can be started anywhere from age 62 to age 70, but the most common age people choose is 62. And there are some pretty good reasons for starting benefits early, including simply needing the money. But there is one very,…
Ask Rusty – Child Benefits Stopped at 18
Dear Rusty: I received my Social Security payment for February but not for the month of March. I’ve seen rumors about how they might cut Social Security checks from people in general, and I really hope that’s not why I…
How to keep your retirement plan on track
The biggest fear of nearly all retirees is that they will run out of money in their golden years. But with a little common sense investment discipline during the years leading up to retirement, your future can look rosy, even…
Preparing for retirement should be a lifetime project
Unfortunately, too many people wait until retirement is already on their horizon before starting to plan for it, and the result is that they’re not adequately financially prepared when the time comes. This article by Adrian Mastracci appears at The Globe…
Why your Social Security benefit could be less than you expect
You’ve done all the planning and figured out the best time for you to start your Social Security benefits, but be careful – there are some potential hiccups that could end up meaning you get a smaller benefit. This sideshow…
Think you know Medicare? Here are some things you don’t know.
Especially those of us already over 65 and on Medicare might think we’re pretty well versed on the program that provides healthcare to over 57 million Americans. But this Motley Fool article by Maurie Backman reveals ten eye-opening Medicare statistics…