Everything you need to maximize Social Security in 2025—retirement age & reductions, earnings test limits, COLA, and spousal/survivor strategies. We explain SSI vs. SSDI, EXR, Ticket to Work, and how wages affect checks so you can work without losing benefits. Use our plain-English walkthroughs to appeal denials, time your claim, and coordinate Medicare/Medicaid. Updated with the latest 2025 COLA and earnings thresholds, straight from SSA.
If you were married 10 years or more and are now divorced, you may be able to collect Social Security benefits on your ex’s record—even if they’ve remarried—and it won’t reduce what your ex or their current spouse gets. This guide walks you through who qualifies, how much, how to apply, 2025 rule changes, and … Read more
Navigating Social Security can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re trying to figure out if you qualify for spousal benefits, even if you haven’t made contributions yourself. Good news: under certain conditions, you may still be eligible for up to 50% of your spouse’s or ex-spouse’s full retirement benefit, without having paid into the system. This guide … Read more
Social Security turned 90 in 2025—but its future is uncertain. The big question on the minds of millions of Americans is: Will Social Security run out in 2033? The short answer is no, but benefits could be significantly reduced if reforms aren’t made soon. Here’s everything you need to know about the solvency of Social … Read more
Leading into 2025, Social Security beneficiaries will receive a modest cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). Let’s break down exactly how much your check will rise, how this compares historically, what expenses may offset the gain, and what the broader context means for retirees today. 1. What Is the COLA & What’s It for 2025? 2. Dollars & … Read more
If you’re receiving Social Security and struggling with student loan debt, you might be wondering: can your benefits be garnished to repay that debt? The answer is yes — but with critical updates and protections you need to know in 2025. What Is a Social Security Offset? Legal Basis Explained A Social Security offset occurs … Read more
Losing a spouse is devastating—emotionally and financially. For many widows, Social Security survivor benefits can provide critical monthly income. Yet, thousands of eligible widows leave tens of thousands of dollars unclaimed simply because they don’t understand the rules. This guide explains eligibility, how much you can receive, and strategies to maximize your benefits—especially for seniors, … Read more
You don’t have to delay retirement or keep working longer to significantly boost your Social Security income. Smart spouses—especially lower earners, seniors, and veterans—can leverage strategic claiming techniques to maximize spousal benefits, even without extending their work history. This guide lays out everything you need to know. 1. Understand the Basics: Spousal Benefit vs. Self … Read more
If you’re divorced, you may still qualify for Social Security based on your ex-spouse’s record—even if your ex hasn’t filed yet. This guide explains who qualifies, how much you could receive (32.5%–50% of an ex’s benefit at your FRA), how remarriage and the 2-year rule work, and exactly how to apply. Social Security+1 Quick answer: … Read more
Your Social Security check changes dramatically depending on when you claim. Start at 62 and you get a permanent reduction; wait until ≈67 for 100%; delay to 70 for your maximum. Below, see the exact trade-offs, how working and taxes affect your payout, and what married couples should weigh first. Quick answer: Should I claim … Read more
If you’re 65 or older and your modified AGI is under $75,000 in 2026, you can generally claim the full $6,000 federal “senior” deduction—in addition to your standard deduction or itemized deductions. Below, see who qualifies, how the phase-out works, and simple steps to claim it on your 2026 return. What is the 2026 $6,000 … Read more