Social Security
Social Security is Translating More Materials in Native Languages
Social Security will now translate, print, and distribute materials in appropriate Social Security offices in Yup’ik and Diné, 2 Native languages. Offices nationwide display posters with the message, “Share Your Race and Ethnicity & Help Us Improve Service and Access”.…
How soon will taxes be eliminated?

One of the biggest surprises for newly retired individuals is that they may have to pay federal taxes on their Social Security benefits. The Social Security Administration states, “About 40 percent of people who get Social Security have to pay…
Do you know about these changes?
The Social Security program changes every year, and 2025 will be no different. Since Social Security benefits are the largest source of income for many seniors, it is important to be aware of these changes. Trevor Jennewine reports on the…
Is COLA keeping up with inflation?
Social Security recipients will receive a 2.5 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in January 2025. However, Kevin Thomson, CEO of 9i Capital Group, said: “The COLA increase is not substantial enough to outpace the growing costs faced by Social Security beneficiaries.”…
The House passes H.R. 82

The full House passed H.R. 82, the Social Security Fairness Act of 2023, on Tuesday, November 12th, by a 327 – 75 vote. The bill would repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), which reduces the…
Three key moves to make in 2025
Even though Social Security benefits only replace 33 percent to 55 percent of earnings for the average worker, Social Security is the largest source of income for most beneficiaries. Without Social Security benefits, about 4 in 10 adults 65 and…
Could the Social Security Fairness Act still pass?

Despite the move by the Freedom Caucus leaders, the House is expected to try to pass H.R.82 – Social Security Fairness Act of 2023. What is the Social Security Fairness Act? This bill repeals provisions that reduce Social Security benefits…
Medicare Part B costs have outpaced COLA for years
Data shows that Medicare Part B premiums have been rising faster than COLA for years, which is why many seniors are struggling to make ends meet. Mary Johnson, Social Security and Medicare policy analyst, her analysis shows that “From 2005…
Your tax bill could be much lower depending on where you retire
Most of us know the famous Ben Franklin quote about taxes; “Nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” However, times have changed when it comes to taxes. Retirees may or may not have to pay state…
Ask Rusty: Older Veteran Asks about Special Social Security Credit for Military Service
Dear Rusty: I served in the U S Army from January 1958 to Feb 1961. What increase should I receive for those years and who do I call and at what phone number? Signed: Proud Veteran Dear Proud Veteran: First,…