seniors
The three-legged stool
The newest data from Allianz finds that 22 percent of Americans currently working hope to retire in 2024. Unfortunately, these soon-to-be retirees will discover the much talked about “three-legged stool” no longer applies to most people. What is a “three-legged…
Is it possible to lose some of your Social Security?
As part of the “three-legged” stool of retirement planning, Social Security should play an equally important role along with pensions and retirement savings; however, for some people, Social Security is the only leg of that stool. So, it is essential…
Is Medigap worth the cost?
Medicare Supplemental Insurance, commonly referred to as Medigap, covers two out of ten Medicare recipients, according to the latest analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation. Medigap policies, sold by private insurance companies, cover Medicare Parts A and B cost-sharing requirements.…
Marriage and retirement
Most people think life after retirement is full of excitement and fun, endless golf games and pickleball. You can spend a lot of time with your spouse and cross things off your bucket list, but things can be otherwise if…
What you should know about Social Security
The Social Security Administration states more than 50 percent of seniors aged 65 and above rely on Social Security for more than half of their monthly income. Another report finds that 40 percent of older Americans rely only on Social…
Did you hear about a Medicare Flex Card?
You may have heard the term Medicare Flex Card used in the recent Annual Open Enrollment, but what is it, and can I get one? First, the federal government does not issue these cards; it is a benefit available to…
How long do I have to pay FICA?
One question asked by Social Security recipients who are still working is whether they have to pay Social Security taxes. Yes, unless your wages exceed the wage cap for 2024. Maurie Backman explains who will be paying Social Security taxes…
Does your state tax Social Security benefits?
The Internal Revenue Service announced Jan. 29, 2024, as the official start date of the 2024 tax season when the agency will begin accepting and processing 2023 tax returns. Some retirees will not need to file if their total income…
Attention 75+ Retirees: You May be able to Avoid RMDs (temporarily, anyway)
There are circumstances in which seniors can delay taking required minimum distributions from employer-sponsored plans like a 401(k) or a 403(b) plans. There are qualifications, though, beginning with the requirement that you must remain an employee (not a contractor) of…
Medicare changes for the new year
January 1st is just around the corner, and many things will change, including Medicare. If you are a Medicare beneficiary or know someone who is, here are some of the changes for 2024. Bethany Cissell outlines the changes in Medicare…