The penalty for taking Social Security early is just too steep
The system unfairly penalizes early filers, unjustly benefits late filers — and hurts lower-income people the most.
August 24, 2020
Social Security
Will your pension reduce your Social Security benefits?
Don't forget about the Government Pension Offset program.
July 20, 2020
Regret taking Social Security too early? You could have a chance for a do-over
If you have second thoughts within a year of claiming, you can give the money back.
March 8, 2020
The real reason you should wait to claim Social Security
It's not just about nabbing the biggest benefit, says our resident expert
February 23, 2020
The 5 big Social Security myths you need to be aware of
These misconceptions can cost you real money.
February 12, 2020
When is the optimal time couples should claim Social Security?
When it comes to Social Security claiming decisions, timing is everything.
January 10, 2020
Divorced and nearing 65? Read this before claiming Social Security benefits
Phil Moeller answers a reader question on divorce and Social Security.
December 6, 2019
Divorce, ex-spousal benefits and when to delay Social Security
Phil Moeller answers questions about deferring Social Security.
November 25, 2019
If you’re receiving Social Security and still working, a recent Executive Order could help
A little-noticed provision could help Social Security and HSAs work together.
November 21, 2019
By 2022, only these states will tax your Social Security [Updated]
If you live in one of these unlucky states, Uncle Sam's got his eye on you
November 18, 2019
Social Security cost-of-living increase will raise benefits 1.6% in 2020
This will bring the average monthly Social Security check up to $1,503.
October 11, 2019
Two lesser-known rules that could impact your decision to delay Social Security benefits
Logical or not, the rules can introduce a lot of quirks into a couple’s claiming decisions.
September 13, 2019
Should I claim my ex-husband’s Social Security? And if I do, what happens to my own?
In this week’s column, Phil Moeller answers a few questions about divorce and Social Security benefits.
August 21, 2019
How do I reclaim Social Security survivor benefits that were withheld?
Is it a monthly benefit increase or a lump sum?
August 9, 2019
If I filed separate tax returns from my spouse can I still get Social Security survivor’s benefit?
Does it matter how we filed our taxes?
August 5, 2019
Social Security Administration adds 6 more states to online replacement card service
2.3 million people have already replaced their Social Security cards online. Here's how you do it
July 25, 2019
If your ex-spouse files for Social Security early will you be penalized as well?
You won't be penalized for a decision you had no role in making
July 16, 2019
No one is checking Social Security statements online, so paper statements might return
Focusing online has saved money, but proponents of a bill to restore printed statements say too few Americans check their status
July 1, 2019
Can you reclaim your Social Security benefits from your ex-spouse?
Your benefits are your benefits. Here's how to get them back
June 28, 2019
Can you claim a survivor’s benefit from Social Security after you have already claimed your own benefit?
Our expert weighs in on how it works, and how much you can expect to receive
June 25, 2019