Social Security Questions You Need to Know
Joel Johnson, CFP® answers questions and talks about Social Security on this weekend’s segment of Better Money Boston on WCVB5.
A few important things to note are:
- Social Security amounts adjust each year. This year, for instance, there was a big jump due to inflation.
- Your benefits may be reduced if you continue to work and collect monthly checks before full retirement age.
- Treat your S.S. like an account rather than a stream of payments.
Social Security and Marriage
If a spouse passes away, you cannot collect both your own and your spouse’s Social Security.
You may be able to claim benefits on your ex-spouse’s Social Security if you were married for at least 10 years before your divorce or their death, are over the age of 62, and are not remarried. This could greatly increase your benefits if your ex-spouse’s benefit is much higher than your own.
Information presented in our podcasts is considered current as of the created date. Over time, some information presented may become stale. We recommend you consult with your Financial Professional before making any changes based on information contained here.
Johnson Brunetti is a marketing name for the businesses of JB Capital and JN Financial.
Investment Advisory Services offered through JB Capital, LLC. Insurance Products offered through JN Financial, LLC.
The guarantees provided by any type of insurance contract are based on the claims-paying ability of the insurance company.
Related Resources
-
Understanding Retirement Planning
Planning for retirement isn’t just about saving – it’s about making smart financial decisions at every stage of life. A better understanding of the financial industry can help you avoid costly mis… -
Most Asked Social Security Questions
It’s no question that Social Security plays a crucial role in retirement planning, helping to provide a stable income stream for millions of recipients. In this week’s Better Money Boston with … -
Think Like the Rich
As you enter retirement, your financial focus shifts from growing your wealth to preserving your assets and generating income. In this stage of life, adopting the mindset of the wealthy can go a l… -
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Estate planning can be a difficult yet necessary conversation to have with your loved ones. Everything from the distribution of your assets to your wishes regarding end-of-life care is up for disc… -
Are My Social Security Benefits Taxable?
If your total combined income exceeds certain thresholds, up to 85% of your Social Security benefits may be taxable. Understanding how Social Security is taxed can help you make informed decisions… -
Right Time for Social Security
Contrary to popular belief, waiting to claim Social Security until age 70 to get the maximum benefit is not the best decision for everyone. So, when is the right time? In this week’s Retire Wis… -
Social Security: Make Your Choice
There are many options when it comes to taking Social Security, but only one that’s right for you. It’s one of the few retirement decisions that is nearly irreversible. Once you choose when to cla… -
What is the Social Security Fairness Act?
You may have heard about the Social Security Fairness Act, which was signed into law on January 5, 2025. But what is it and who does it help? In this week’s Money Wisdom Question Series, Ian Fe… -
Finding Your Way on Taxes
Taxes can be confusing on any given day, but in retirement, they require even more attention and understanding. In fact, taxes are at the core of nine out of every ten conversations we have with t… -
How to Effectively Plan for Healthcare in Retirement
As you approach retirement, the reality of rising healthcare costs becomes clearer. When planning for this significant expense, it’s important to consider all aspects – from prescription drug cost…