Q & A
Should I sign up for Medicare even though I’m not getting Social Security until I’m 66?
Complete Question: I do not want to get Social Security until I’m 66 so I can get my full benefit amount. I will be 64 next month. I planned on working until the age of 66, but my employer recently…
I’m divorced and heard rumors about EX-spouse Social Security benefits. Is that really a possibility?
Complete Question: I’m 62 years-old and divorced. I was hoping to get spousal benefits, but I figured there was no way once I got divorced. Now I hear people say that I can still collect on my ex-spouse’s record. Is…
The 2015 COLA of 1.7% seems so low…has it always been this way?
Complete Question: I started Social Security in 2014 and got the 1.7% COLA increase for 2015. I don’t understand how that amount is keeping up with inflation. Is this what I should expect in the future? Has it always been…
What is the “Ticket to Work” program?
Complete Question: With all the disability discussion in the news, I was wondering if people on disability have an option to try to work? I’ve heard about “Ticket to Work”, but don’t really know what it is. Answer: The Social…
My ex-husband works…will those earnings reduce my spousal benefits?
Complete Question: I am filing to receive ex-spouse Social Security benefits. I was told by a friend of mine that her benefits are reduced because her husband works and makes too much money. I know my ex-husband works. Will his…
How do I know if I’m considered “disabled” by Social Security standards?
Complete Question: I have had a lot of difficulty maintaining a job because of an illness. My friends and family keep telling me to file for disability, but I’m not sure if I qualify. Is there a way to find out…
My husband is very ill and he doesn’t have life insurance…
Complete Question: I’ve been a stay-at-home mom most of my life and have not earned enough to receive Social Security benefits. My husband receives Social Security, so I get a small percentage of his benefits. Recently, he became very ill.…
I’m ready to file for my benefits…now what?
Complete Question: I’m 63 years old and after looking at my financial situation, I decided it would be best to start receiving my Social Security benefits in April of 2015. What should I do now? When do I file and…
I want to work part-time while getting Social Security…will I pay Social Security taxes?
Complete Question: I want to work part-time while receiving Social Security benefits. I’m assuming that since I’m retired (I’m 66 years old) and getting my benefits, I won’t have to pay any more Social Security taxes on my paycheck. Is…
What’s the difference between WEP and GPO?
Complete Question: I know a government pension affects Social Security benefits in some way, but what’s the difference between WEP and GPO? How do I know which one applies to me? Answer: You are right that government pensions affect Social Security…