Q & A
Ask Rusty – Grieving Husband Asks About His Survivor Benefits
Dear Rusty: My wife died May 4, 2024. I notified Social Security, and they have removed the direct deposit made to my joint checking account on May 8, 2024. What are my options now for obtaining any benefits from my…
Ask Rusty – Why is there a Social Security Earnings Limit?
Dear Rusty: I try to read your article in the Carmichael Times each week and appreciate the information you provide. I am 62 and considering my retirement options and when I should do that to get the most benefit. I…
Ask Rusty – I’m Already Collecting Social Security – How Will My WEP Reduction be Calculated?
Dear Rusty: I don’t understand exactly how the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) works for my situation. I turned 62 in 2017 and am currently still working in a “non-covered” job, not paying into Social Security, but from which I will…
Ask Rusty – About Social Security’s “guaranteed” annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA)
Dear Rusty: I’ve been reading a lot lately about speculation on what next year’s benefit increase will be, and it seems like most of the experts are suggesting a range of 2.5% to 3%. My neighbor says don’t worry about…
Ask Rusty – I’m Working after age 65; Why Aren’t I Exempt from Medicare Part B Premium?
Dear Rusty: Why, as I continue to work after age 65 and have FICA taxes taken from my check, am I – or anyone – also compelled under the threat of penalties, rate increases, etc. to immediately take Medicare Part…
Ask Rusty – Shocked Because Medicare Increase Results in Loss of Social Security Benefits
Dear Rusty: My wife and I have taken a Social Security “Cut” — no 3.2% raise for us, due to something called “IRMAA,” based on our income. We actually took, together, a $400 a month cut. As far as I…
Ask Rusty – Future Retiree Worried About Social Security’s Future
Dear Rusty: I keep reading that the SSA will only be able to pay out 75% of benefits come 2033. If congress were to do nothing and this reduction in benefits occurred, would seniors already collecting benefits in 2033 have…
Ask Rusty – Widower’s Retirement Stymied by Social Security’s “WEP” and “GPO” Rules
Dear Rusty: My wife passed away 4 years ago. I want to retire so called SSA and was told I can collect my own SS at 62, reduced by WEP. My wife’s SS was greater than mine, but they said…
Ask Rusty – Minister Wants to Maximize Social Security Benefit
Dear Rusty: I want to apply for Social Security, but I want to make sure I get all the benefits I have earned. I am a veteran with a 10% disability rating (not sure if that matters). I am 68…
Ask Rusty – Older Husband and Working Wife Seek Guidance
Dear Rusty: I am 74 years old, retired and receiving Social Security. My wife will be 65 in January of 2025. Our hope was to start paying off some credit card expense by her receiving SS when she turns 65,…