The Benefits Blog
The Benefits Blog provides expert insights, updates, and strategies on Social Security and Medicare, tailored for financial professionals looking to enhance their knowledge and better serve their clients. Stay informed with the latest developments and tips to maximize benefits for your clients.
According to a new AARP survey, as Social Security nears its 90th birthday, support for the program remains virtually universal—96 percent of U.S. adults now call it important, and 74 percent rank it among our nation’s most critical programs, up from 68 percent in 2020 . Yet only 36 percent feel “ve...
If you’ve seen the headlines lately, you might think Congress just passed a bill that eliminates federal taxes on Social Security benefits. Even the Social Security Administration joined in, stating that nearly 90% of beneficiaries will no longer pay federal tax on their benefits. But is that really...
The 2025 Trustees Report on the financial status of Social Security was released last week, and its findings carry significant implications for retirement planners, financial advisors, and insurance professionals. As an NSSA® certificate holder, your role as a trusted resource is more important than...
For many Americans, Social Security is more than a benefit—it’s a financial cornerstone. Surveys consistently show that 80% to 90% of retirees depend on Social Security in some capacity to cover basic expenses. That means any disruption to these payments can have immediate and serious consequences.
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Whether you're wondering how to plan for Social Security, how to avoid filing mistakes, or how to optimize your retirement income, this guide will walk you through the 10 most important things to know before you file.
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1. Your Children May Be Eligible for Social Security Benefits
Social Security...
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has recently walked back part of a controversial new policy—but even the revised version imposes significant challenges for millions of Americans, especially seniors and people with disabilities. One of the most impactful changes relates to how beneficiaries ...
On February 27, 2025 the Associated Press reported that the Social Security Administration is preparing to lay off at least 7,000 employees. Here is how we think that will impact the services the SSA provides as well as what that means for you as an advisor.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) r...
I have a client that we are working with who has questions about her widow benefit. The husband passed away, and the wife is age 58 and is eligible to receive a widow’s benefit at age 60. Her FRA is 67. I looked back on the NSSA training and found that deemed filing does NOT apply. Doesn’t this mean...
