Category: Benefits & Retirement
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Social Security’s 2026 Trustees Report in Plain English
The 2026 Trustees Report projects the retirement fund runs short in late 2032, paying 78% of benefits then. What that means, and doesn’t, for your check.
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Medicare’s Hospital Fund: What the New Report Projects
The 2026 Medicare Trustees Report projects the hospital fund runs short in 2033, still covering 89% of Part A costs. What that means for beneficiaries.
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How to Open a my Social Security Account Safely
Opening a my Social Security account takes about 15 minutes and a photo ID. Here’s the safe way to set one up — and why claiming yours protects you.
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VA Pension or VA Disability? Two Different Benefits
VA disability compensation and VA pension get mixed up constantly. One is for service-connected conditions, one is needs-based. Who qualifies for which.
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401(k) Vesting: The Money That Isn’t Yours Yet
Your 401(k) statement shows one balance, but part of it may not be yours yet. How cliff and graded vesting work, and how to check before you switch jobs.
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Medicaid and Your House: What Estate Recovery Means
States can seek repayment of Medicaid long-term care costs from your estate — often the house. Who is protected, what varies by state, what to do.
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Working While on Social Security: The Earnings Limit
Claim Social Security early and keep working, and SSA may withhold part of your benefit. Here is how the earnings test works and why the money isn’t lost.
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RMDs at 73: The Withdrawal the IRS Requires
At 73, the IRS requires withdrawals from traditional IRAs and 401(k)s. Here are the deadlines, the penalty, the first-year trap, and the charity option.
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Extra Help With Drug Costs: Medicare’s Quiet Program
Medicare’s Extra Help program pays Part D premiums and caps drug copays for people with limited income, and it expanded in 2024. Here is who qualifies and how to apply.
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Survivor Benefits: What Social Security Pays After a Death
When a worker dies, Social Security can pay benefits to a surviving spouse, children, and even parents. Here is who qualifies and how much they receive.