Social Security
Why is it Important to Check your Earnings History ?
This article by Rich Fowler, Social Security District Manager in Maryville MO, explains the impact your earnings history has on your eventual Social Security benefit. Any errors in your Social Security payments need to be corrected as soon as possible…
Can I Count on Social Security Being There?
Younger folks especially wonder about Social Security being there for them when they retire. This article by David Crossman with Bedel Financial Consulting explains that it will be there. How it will look and the amount that is paid out…
What to Know About Spouse Benefits
This article by Bram Berkowitz for The Motley Fool explains spouse benefits. When a non working spouse did not qualify for Social Security on their own there is an option for them to apply for a spouse benefit from the…
How to Achieve Maximum Social Security Benefits
In this article by Stefon Walters for the Motley Fool the significance of the wage base limit is discussed. This is the highest income earned that pays Social Security taxes. For 2025, you will not pay Social Security tax if…
How to Advise Social Security of Any Life Changes
It’s important to advise Social Security if you have changes such as marriage, divorce, death of a spouse, adoption of a child. Your address, phone number or direct deposit information can be updated with your online account. For more information…
Different Views on how to Resolve Social Security Insolvency
In this editorial article for Camas-Washougal Post Record the writer explores potential scenarios depending on who wins the Presidential Election in November. Here… As an example of the leading thoughts on reforming Social Security, the Association of Mature American Citizens…
Amount Needed to Qualify for Social Security Credits Going up in 2025
Americans earn up to four credits per year to qualify for Social Security benefits in their later years. The 2024 amount is $1,730. In 2025 it will increase to $1,810. Those who work full time will not be affected by…
Donald Trump & Social Security: Short-term vs. Long-term
Kailey Hagen analyzes former President Trump’s bold plans for Social Security. She finds there would be appeal in the short run but problems in the long term because additional revenues are not there. Insolvency looms for the popular program in…
Analysis: Trump Campaign Plans & Social Security
The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB) notes a typical couple retiring just before Social Security hits insolvency in 2034 faces a $16,500 cut, and neither presidential candidate, despite them both saying they will “protect” the program, has presented plans…
How the next U.S. president may address Social Security running dry
The problem has been known for a decade or more– that the Social Security Trust fund (also referred to as reserves or surpluses) will be depleted by 2034. Benefits will then be reduced 20% or more for all across the…