Q & A
Ask Rusty – Do Over Option
Dear Rusty: I just recently turned 62 and have not yet filed for Social Security, but I’m wondering – Is it possible to start my Social Security benefits at age 62, take benefits for about 6 months just to get…
Ask Rusty – Restricted Application
Dear Rusty: I am 66 years of age and have not yet claimed Social Security because I want to wait until I’m 70 and get the higher benefit. My wife, who is 68, is already collecting her benefits having started…
Ask Rusty – Hold Harmless Provision
Dear Rusty: I’m totally confused after a conversation with some friends about Social Security and Medicare. All three of us are 68, but two of my friends are already collecting Social Security while I’m waiting to apply so I can…
Ask Rusty – Widow’s Benefit if Spouse Dies Before Applying
Dear Rusty: I was born in 1951 and have not yet applied for my Social Security benefits, and I know that when I reach my full retirement age this year I will be able to get 100% of the benefit…
Ask Rusty – Ex-spouse benefits – When you don’t get
Dear Rusty: I am very confused about where I stand with Social Security. I have been divorced twice. First husband is 79; I was married to him for 10 years. He is remarried and collecting Social Security. Second husband is…
Ask Rusty: WEP – Substantial Earnings Test
Dear Rusty: I turn 62 this June. I collect a State Teachers Retirement and have been told I face a windfall reduction in my SS benefits if I have less than 30 service years in SS. Social Security claims that…
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…
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…
FAQ: Hospital Observation Care Can Be Costly For Medicare Patients
(By Susan Jaffe for Kaiser Health News) Some seniors think Medicare made a mistake. Others are stunned when they find out that being in a hospital even for a couple of days doesn’t always mean they were actually admitted. Continue reading…
What is the Ticket To Work Program?
Answer: The Ticket To Work Program can help Social Security beneficiaries go to work, get a good job that may lead to a career, save more money, and become financially independent, all while they keep their health coverage. Ticket to Work…