Social Security
Widow(er) Benefits and Delayed Retirement Credits Explained
In a post on maximizemysocialsecurity.com, the firm’s analysts examine the question of how delayed retirement credits (DRCs) are applied to widow benefits, explaining how the full retirement rate a surviving spouse will receive is calculated when DRCs are involved. Check it…
The “Gig” Economy’s Downside
To many, the dream of making it big in the “gig” economy–where one handles assignments as a contractor or non-employee–seems like the preferred option to being “trapped” in the confines of a single employer situation. You know, if you decide…
Working Longer May Not Be the Answer
The retirement savings dilemma seems to be one of the most enduring topics covered in media outlets these days. From those approaching retirement with meager accumulated wealth to those forced out of careers just as they entered the “wealth accumulation”…
“Who do you trust?”
Tom Margenau called this piece “Who do you trust?” in response to a TV show first hosted by Johnny Carson. The piece addresses the fact that yes, some Social Security clerks make mistakes and misspeak when it comes to the…
What if Social Security paid “lump sums” to entice people to defer benefits?
This is a fascinating article written and based on research by Olivia Mitchell, a Wharton professor of business economics and public policy. First, Social Security is facing insolvency by 2034, meaning it will no longer be able to pay benefits in full…
Calculate Your Social Security Benefit
In this comprehensive overview piece, Eric Reed of theStreet.com takes readers through who is eligible for Social Security and how one calculates benefits. The starting point is meeting three basic criteria: must be older than 62, must have enough eligibility…
Highest Benefit Goes to Those Who Wait– Until 70
If you can do it, the evidence is clear about achieving the absolute highest Social Security benefit to which one is entitled. That would be age 70. Generally speaking, if one is in good health, is the higher earner between…
A “Real” Raise in the Works for Most Social Security Recipients in 2019
With all important cost of living adjustment (COLA) for 2019 due to be announced for Social Security recipients on October 11th, many are wondering if they will actually see their monthly benefit payment go up after Medicare premiums are taken into…
Modernizing Social Security benefits
Mary Beth Franklin, writing in InvestmentNews, highlights the looming insolvency date of 2034 for Social Security that is so well noted elsewhere. She notes so little has changed over the years from the original law in 1935. Franklin discusses some of…
Enjoy retirement. Maximize income. Here’s how.
Lloyd Carroll, a certified public accountant and professor of accounting, guides seniors through the retirement years on a variety of topics in this piece which is also in the Fall 2018 Senior Living Guide. He discusses Social Security benefits, 401k…