Ask Rusty
Ask Rusty – I’m a Veteran. How Do I Get My Extra Social Security?
Dear Rusty: As a military veteran, I was told that the final amount of my Social Security should be a little higher as a reward for military service. If so, I have two questions: 1. How much is the boost?…
Ask Rusty – Will Work Earnings Affect My Social Security at Age 80?
Dear Rusty: I am 80 years old, and I receive monthly Social Security benefits, but I’m thinking about returning to work. At this age, am I limited in how much income I generate without affecting my benefit? If so, how…
Ask Rusty – Cutting Social Security Will Make Me Lose My Home!
Dear Rusty: Politicians are talking about taking money from Social Security, but I need that money to support my daughter and pay for my home. I’m a widow, and my husband passed in 2017. I’ll lose my home if my…
Ask Rusty – About Social Security’s “First Year Rule”
Dear Rusty: I’m considering filing for my SS at age 64 in February, before my full retirement age of 66 years and 10 months. I’m working full time and would like to continue earning until I meet the $21,240 limit…
Ask Rusty – What Counts for Social Security’s Earnings Limit?
Dear Rusty: I retired on February 1st of this year (2022). I collect a pension from my employer plus a union pension, as well as Social Security, all of which started in February 2022. I am married and I’m 65…
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 – 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 – 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 – Octogenarian Asks About Wife’s Spousal and Survivor Benefits
Dear Rusty: I am now 80 and my wife is 76, and we both took early Social Security benefits at age 62. When my wife took her Social Security, it was a lot smaller than mine, so they took a…
Ask Rusty – Surviving Spouse Benefits Explained
Dear Rusty: If I file at age 63 what percentage does my wife receive if I die? Does this percentage change if I wait to file closer to my full retirement age? And what does my wife receive if I…