Navigating the complexities of Social Security benefits becomes increasingly important for effective financial planning as you approach retirement. By strategizing thoughtfully and making informed decisions, you can optimize your Social Security payments, helping to...
social security benefits
2024 Ushers in Key Social Security Changes to Beneficiaries
Each year, adjustments are made to the Social Security program to ensure that benefits remain in sync with changes in inflation and wages. The annual revisions for 2024 took effect this month. The majority of these changes have the potential to affect benefit payments...
The Secure Act 2.0 Delayed Required Minimum Distributions: A Tax Trap for Americans?
The Secure Act 2.0, which was passed in December of last year, includes a change to the starting age for Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). Previously, individuals were required to start taking distributions from their retirement accounts, such as traditional IRAs...
Social Security Reform: What Changes to the Program Are Being Proposed?
The Social Security program has been successful in reducing poverty and promoting economic security for millions of Americans – those who are retired and disabled as well as surviving spouses and children of deceased beneficiaries. However, the program’s long-term...
Don’t Be Fooled by These Common Retirement Misconceptions
When it comes to saving for retirement, it’s important to remember that standard retirement savings advice is not one-size-fits-all. Be aware of the following common misconceptions so you can meet your savings goals with clarity and confidence. The 4% Rule is...
Be Aware of These Social Security Realities When Planning for Retirement
While Social Security can be an important source of income after you leave the workforce for good, it isn’t without its flaws. Being prepared with a good understanding of the realities of this benefits program, which are discussed below, can help you plan for...
When Should You Start Collecting Social Security?
You can start collecting social security benefits at age 62, provided you’ve paid into the program for approximately 10 years, but is that the right move for you? Maybe waiting until the retirement age, which ranges from 65-67, is a better fit for you. Or maybe you’re someone who could wait until age 70 to […]