Social Security
Social Security in 2025: Many changes, but some constants.
You’re probably well aware of some of the “regular” changes in Social Security that occur automatically with the calendar changing. Parameters like the taxable maximum, the cost-of-living adjustment, the earnings test limits, and so on are updated yearly to keep…
Correlating Retirement Ages and Social Security Claiming Ages
Retiring, defined as stepping away from the workforce, and filing for Social Security benefits, defined as laying claim to the benefits earned while a part of the workforce, are two separate milestones in the financial picture for older Americans. They…
Changes to Accessing SSA In-Person Services
From the Social Security Administration We are expanding appointment-based services at our local Social Security offices. By scheduling appointments, we aim to reduce wait times, streamline service delivery, and improve customer experience. Nearly 400 local offices have already moved to…
An Amusing Review of Social Security Teminology Issues
As a 32-year veteran of Social Security work, and as the writer of many public documents on behalf of Social Security’s policy matters, Tom Margenau is someone we frequently repost on this website. His insights are not only accurate, but…
Ask Rusty – Have I Saved Social Security Money by Claiming at 62?
Dear Rusty: I had to start collecting Social Security at 62, and I am 75 now. I believe that in the last 13 years I have saved Social Security money, so I do not know why I cannot draw my…
Social Security in 2025
The only thing constant is change, and that holds for Social Security. In Social Security’s almost 90-year history (August 14, 1935), many things have changed, and next year will be no different. Starting in January, there will be five changes…
Only 4% claim Social Security at 70
You can start receiving your Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62 but at a reduced amount. However, you are entitled to full benefits only when you reach your full retirement age. If you delay taking your benefits…
Appointments Growing (and Lines Shrinking) for Social Security Cards and Other Services
In recent years, some Social Security offices saw lines getting longer, in some cases lasting hours. In 2024, we started to tackle this, renewing our commitment to better customer experiences. Continue reading here… Notice: The link provided above connects readers to the…
The latest on the Social Security Fairness Act
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer told union members he is “doing everything” to pass legislation to pass the Social Security Fairness Act, which would eliminate the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). However, Congress is…
Social Security changes that could affect your wallet.
When the Social Security Administration announced on October 10th that the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) was to be 2.5 percent for 2025, unless you were already taking your Social Security benefits, you may have skipped over that news. However, along with…