Social Security
There’s a big change coming to Social Security work credits
You must earn a certain number of credits to be eligible for Social Security benefits. You can earn up to a maximum of 4 credits per year. The amount needed to earn 1 credit automatically increases each year when average…
Why only 8% wait until age 70
You can start receiving your Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62. However, you are entitled to full benefits only when you reach your full retirement age. If you delay taking your benefits from your full retirement age…
Taking the necessary steps to avoid mistakes in retirement
Your retirement is almost here. Your plans to play more golf, visit the grandchildren, and just enjoy your life now that you are no longer accountable to a time clock. But before you start to celebrate, you need to avoid…
Western nations are addressing similar public pension challenges
The good news is that more than 74 million Social Security recipients will receive a 2.8 percent cost-of-living adjustment starting in January 2026. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has just released the annual inflation rate at 3 percent, further…
Three main factors affect the size of your benefit amount
The Social Security Administration released the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) on October 24th, and it also released the maximum Social Security benefit for 2026. The 2026 maximum benefit amount will be $5,251 per month; however, reaching the maximum amount can…
Do this by Nov. 19
On October 24th, the Social Security Administration announced the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) amount for 2026. Social Security recipients will see the 2.8 percent increase in their January check. However, if you cannot wait until that day, you need to…
Ask Rusty – Consider the “Wearing Out” Factor While Deciding When to Claim Social Security
Dear Rusty: Enjoyed your recent article on claiming SS benefits. I feel, however, any decision making should also include what I call the “wearing out” factor. Yes, financial need, health, and longevity are definite criteria for a decision. The…
Demystifying Social Security Disability
Much of the mystery about Social Security disability stems from a simple misunderstanding of what it is – an insurance program for working Americans who become disabled before their full Social Security (SS) retirement age. Just like any other insurance…
What’s Happening With Retirement Confidence in the U.S.?
Recent surveys Charles Schwab and Fidelity reveal an alarming trend: Confidence in American’s ability to adequately prepare for retirement is falling. In fact, an Investopedia post by reporter Aaron McDade suggests that about a third of the 1,100 401 (k)…
Analyzing two key potential Social Security changes offered for consideration
As noted in today’s headline post on this site, many policy experts are weighing in with specific proposals to adjust Social Security that could help address the program’s impending financial crisis. In a post today on MarketWatch.com, retirement reporter Jessica…