Key Points Not knowing the ins and outs of Social Security could cost you. Make sure you understand what happens if you work while collecting benefits. Know what happens if you file for benefits too early or claim spousal benefits too late. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › If there’s one […]
Key Points One of the most anticipated days of the year for Social Security’s more than 71 million traditional beneficiaries — the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) reveal — is rapidly approaching. Two of President Trump’s policies are directly affecting consumer prices and influencing next year’s Social Security COLA estimates. In addition to traditional beneficiaries receiving one […]
Image source: Getty Images Short answer: yes, you can, but it’s harder than it should be, and it’s not a sure thing. A 650 credit score sits in what lenders call the “fair” credit range. Most balance transfer cards are built for people in the next range up, good to excellent credit, which usually starts […]
Key Points A lower COLA means a smaller increase in Social Security checks. COLAs are based on July, August, and September inflation rates. Originally designed to help seniors keep pace with inflation, COLAs sometimes miss the mark. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Projections are a funny thing. What seems like […]
Key Points Social Security may be your only guaranteed income source for life in retirement. Before filing for benefits, make sure you know what your spending needs entail. That could help you avoid a decision you regret. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Retirement is a period of life that requires […]
Key Points The maximum 2027 Social Security benefit increase will be $187, assuming a 3.6% COLA. The average benefit increase will be closer to $75 per month. We should learn the official 2027 COLA on Oct. 14, 2026. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › The 2027 Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) […]
Key Points If money has been getting increasing tight in retirement, it’s time to take action. That could mean returning to part-time work. It could also mean making strategic housing and healthcare decisions. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › If you’re having a hard time paying your bills in retirement, you’re […]
Key Points A popular rule from Fidelity says you should have saved 10x your salary by age 67 to retire comfortably. This would give the average worker a savings target of about $650,000. Try to increase your savings rate and claim any 401(k) match you qualify for if you’re behind where you want to be. […]
Key Points Working and claiming Social Security could cause you to owe more Social Security benefit taxes. A lot depends on your provisional income — which incorporates several factors. Plan for these taxes in advance so that you aren’t caught off guard by your tax bill. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook […]
Key Points Filing for Social Security at 62 will shrink your monthly checks by about 30% compared to waiting until full retirement age. An early claim could also result in smaller survivor benefits for your spouse. If you’re the higher earner in your household, you may not want to sign up for benefits at 62. […]
Key Points Medicare Part B premiums and Social Security benefit taxes might consume some or all of your COLA. We will learn the 2027 Medicare Part B premium increase later this year. You could owe ordinary income taxes on up to 85% of your Social Security benefits in 2027. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most […]
Key Points Many people focus on saving $1 million for retirement. If you have modest needs, you may be able to get by on much less. Rather than fixate on $1 million, focus on what savings figure you need to support your personal expenses. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › If […]
By The White Coat Investor, originally published at The White Coat Investor. EDITOR’S NOTE: Deadine alert! August 31 is the final day you can apply for the WCI Medical School Scholarship, which will give away $55,000 to professional students in the US. For all the details of this year’s scholarship (or to find out how […]
The White Coat Investor
Key Points A spouse’s death may force you to choose between claiming a retirement benefit and a survivor benefit. You may be able to strategically delay one and then switch benefits later to maximize your household income. Contact the Social Security Administration to switch benefit types. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook […]
Image source: Getty Images If your score is sitting at 750, the fastest way to reach 800 is to fine-tune one number: your credit utilization. That’s the share of your available credit you’re actually using. Here’s a quick refresher in what makes up your typical FICO® Score: Payment History (35%) Credit utilization (30%) Length of […]
Key Points Few announcements are more anticipated by retirees than the annual Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) reveal. Two of President Donald Trump’s policies are boosting the prevailing inflation rate, thereby setting up Social Security beneficiaries for a historic raise in 2027. However, annual Trump bumps are digging an even bigger hole for Social Security. […]
Key Points How much of the windfall is passed on to policyholders will vary by insurer. It’s possible that insurers will expand services like wellness programs and prevenitive care. More attractive plans may lead to higher enrollment in Medicare Advantage. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › The federal government has announced […]
Image source: Getty Images Buy now, pay later (BNPL) can feel “free” at the checkout. The catch is how fast that free window slams shut. Among people who fell behind on a payment, 64% got charged for it, according to Motley Fool Money research. A 0% intro APR credit card solves that exact problem. Instead […]
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