Latest News
February’s Average Monthly Social Security Benefit paid was $1,363.66
According to February’s monthly snapshot from the Social Security Administration (SSA), more than 41.4 million retired workers were being paid an average of $1,363.66 each month. Read article here… Notice: The link provided in the text above connects readers to the full…
You May be Eligible for Social Security Benefits Even If You Never Worked
What if you earned less than the minimum qualifying amount over your lifetime to claim Social Security benefits; can you still collect Social Security benefits? Yes, thanks to the spousal benefits option. Read article here… Notice: The link provided in the…
To Roll or Not to Roll Your 401(k)
For some retirees, it may be better to leave their money in their 401(k) instead of following the conventional wisdom and rolling it into an IRA. Read article here… Notice: The link provided in the text above connects readers to the full…
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…