Q & A
Ask Rusty – Can I Get Survivor Benefits While Still Working?
Dear Rusty: I lost my wife several years ago and I qualified for Social Security Spousal benefits. Unfortunately, because of my income, I have not been able to take advantage of this benefit. I am currently 64 and still working.…
Ask Rusty – Retired Federal Employee Has Small Social Security Benefit
Dear Rusty: When I started getting Social Security at 62, I was told by the SS office I would get a smaller monthly amount because I worked for the Federal Government and received a Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) pension.…
Ask Rusty – Will My Wife’s Benefit Change My Claiming Decision?
Dear Rusty: I’ll be 69 in April 2023, and my wife will be 59 later this month. I’m still working and am trying to determine whether I should take Social Security at 69 or 70. My main question revolves around…
Ask Rusty – Can A Working Widow Collect Survivor Benefits?
Dear Rusty: I’m 63 and still employed. My husband passed away 7 years ago at the age of 58. Am I able to collect my husband’s Social Security while I’m still working? Signed: Working Widow Dear Working Widow: Technically at…
Ask Rusty – For Some Simple Guidance About Medicare
Dear Rusty: I’m nearing 68 years old, have never signed up for Medicare but thinking that I should look into it. I’m currently covered by my wife’s health insurance through her employer. I would greatly appreciate some simple guidance regarding…
Ask Rusty – How Do I Avoid Pitfalls and Get Maximum Social Security?
Dear Rusty: I turned 70 in June of this year and want to start receiving benefits. I am currently working full time as well. I want to set things up and get started in the most advantageous way so that…
Ask Rusty – When Is My Wife Eligible for Full Survivor Benefits?
Dear Rusty: I heard my spouse will get 100% of my Social Security when I pass if she is at her full retirement age (FRA), which is 66 years and 8 months. But I also heard that full widow benefits…
Ask Rusty – How Do I Get My Social Security As Soon As Possible?
Dear Rusty: I am a few weeks away from my 61st birthday in November 2022. I was wondering how far in advance of my 62nd birthday next year should I file my Social Security benefits paperwork in order to get…
Ask Rusty – Why Don’t I Get Annual Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA)?
Dear Rusty: I get a NET amount of $210 from Social Security plus get an alimony check of $1,400. Other people I know get a COLA increase every year, but I was told I am not eligible? But no reason…
Ask Rusty – How Do I Handle an Overpayment Notice from Social Security?
Dear Rusty: Things have gone good for me until now. I got a job and have enjoyed going back to work after being retired. But I just got some bad news – a letter from Social Security saying I owe…