AMAC Foundation
Ask Rusty - Should my Spouse be getting half of my Social Security amount?
Dear Rusty: I was referred to you to ask a question about Social Security benefits. I receive about $1,700 a month from Social Security while my husband receives only approximately $750 monthly. Is he entitled to file for half of…
Social Security Will No Longer Mail Paper Checks
This article proclaims it’s “the end of an era,” and it definitely is. Social Security has been mailing monthly payments to beneficiaries since the late 1930s. Of course, for many years, Social Security has also been requiring new recipients to…
The Importance of Realizing Social Security is Only a Safety Net
Inflation is causing Social Security not to go as far as it used to. Unfortunately, not everyone was able to save for retirement. More people are now relying heavily on their retirement accounts. Their savings, 401(k)s, IRAs, brokerage accounts, etc.…
Sometimes you need to take your Social Security at 62
You constantly hear about strategies for maximizing your Social Security benefits, but it is not always your best option. When to take your Social Security benefit is a personal decision only you can make, depending on your personal circumstances. …
Are You Eligible for a Spousal Benefit?
Even if you never worked, if you are married or were married at least 10 years, you could qualify for benefits based on your spouse’s record. You can get a spousal benefit equal to 50% of your spouse’s full retirement…
Changes May Be Coming to How Social Security Disability is Determined
The Social Security Administration (SSA) is considering a proposed rule that will affect how disability eligibility is determined for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). One of the changes would replace the outdated occupational data. The…
Your Social Security Benefits May Still Be Taxable
If you plan on working after starting your Social Security benefits, your earnings will still be subject to payroll taxes. It doesn’t matter if you start receiving benefits before or after your full retirement age (FRA); you will continue to…
Deciding When to Start Your Social Security Benefits
Deciding the right time to start your Social Security benefits is a personal decision only you can make. Everyone’s situation is different. Only you can decide the right time to start receiving your Social Security. If you are married, it’s…
Is Your Social Security Benefit Enough
Social Security plays a huge role for many older Americans, and it is not uncommon to wonder how their own benefit compares to others. Your Social Security benefit is based on your highest 35 years of earnings; the more you…
Expect a Substantial Increase in the Medicare Part B Premium in 2026
The Social Security Trustees Report for 2025 projects a Medicare Part B increase of 11.6% in 2026. The premium is estimated to be $206.50. This is a $21.50 increase, the largest since 2022. In 2022, the premium rose by $21.60,…