Social Security

Social Security and Working: 2026 and 2027 Earnings Limits

You can work and collect Social Security. See the 2026 and 2027 earnings limits, how withheld benefits come back, and the payroll tax you still pay.

Social Security COLA 2027 Is 3.6%: What It Means for Your Check

Social Security’s 2027 COLA is 3.6%, adding about $75 to the average retiree’s check in January. See the new earnings limits, SSI, and Medicare numbers.

Average Social Security Check by Age: 2026 SSA Data

See how your Social Security check compares to retirees your age, using the SSA’s newest 2026 data, and what the average leaves out.

Social Security Benefit Cuts? What the Latest Projections Show

Social Security benefit cuts are a real risk but not certain. Here’s what projections show, and how to plan your retirement accordingly.

How to Apply for Social Security: 5 Steps, One Big Decision

Applying takes 15 minutes. Deciding when to start pays off far more, and it’s permanent. Here’s the 5-step process, plus what to weigh first.

Social Security Breakeven Calculator: Compare Claiming Ages

Skip the generic age-80 estimate. Find your exact Social Security breakeven age from your own birth year and benefit.

Do Social Security Benefits Change When You Stop Working?

Social Security uses your top 35 earning years. Stop early and your projected benefit gets cut. Here’s what the math shows.

Living on Social Security Alone: 11 Strategies for Making It Work

The average Social Security benefit for retired workers is $2,071 a month. Millions of retirees live on that. Here’s where to start.

Social Security and Medicare Mistakes That Can Cost You for Life

Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage, Social Security timing, and the enrollment errors that follow you permanently.

Social Security Optimization Strategies: 15 Tips to Maximize Your Benefits

Delaying Social Security to 70 can add $100,000+ in lifetime benefits. These are the planning strategies that make the biggest difference.

Is Social Security Taxable? Federal Rules, State Taxes, and Earnings Limits

Up to 85% of your Social Security can face federal income tax, and 8 states tax it too. See the thresholds, the new senior deduction, and 2027 earnings limits.

Social Security Spousal Benefits: How to Get the Most

As you approach retirement, understanding spousal benefits can empower both you and your partner to make well-informed decisions.

Social Security and Wealth: Who Gains the Most

Discover how Social Security and wealth interact — and why the program plays a different role depending on your income and resources.

How to Qualify for the Highest Social Security Benefit Possible

What’s the highest Social Security benefit? Will you qualify? Get easy answers for a wealthier retirement.

Five Reasons to Take Social Security Early

Thinking about claiming benefits early? Here are five reasons to take Social Security early—and how to decide if it’s right for you.

The New Social Security Statement: What's Changed

The SSA has released a new format for your Social Security statement and logging on to see it requires a new account.

6 Insider Tips for Getting the Most from Social Security

Mary Beth Franklin is a nationally recognized expert in Social Security. Get her 6 insider tips for getting the most from Social Security.

Full Retirement Age: Best Time to Start Social Security?

Your benefits are determined by your Full Retirement Age (FRA), your benefit amount and FRA and the age when you decide to start benefits.

Podcast: Mike Piper — Social Security and Tax-Efficient Retirement Planning

Steve and Mike discuss Social Security planning, Roth conversions, and retirement account distributions.

Social Security Leveling: Pros, Cons, and How It Works

Delay Collecting Social Security and Your Finances Will Win Big

You need to make a lot of choices in retirement.  Many people tout the benefits of investing in real estate.  However, there is a less glamorous way to use your…

Podcast: Mary Beth Franklin on Avoiding Big Social Security Claiming Mistakes

Episode 10 of the Boldin podcast is an interview with Mary Beth Franklin.  Mary Beth is a nationally recognized expert in Social Security claiming strategies.…

The Smartest Social Security Decision for Married Couples

You have a lot of decisions to make about retirement. And, if you are married, you have nearly twice the number of choices – plus the complications of competing…

How is My Social Security Payment Calculated?

You can reasonably count on Social Security benefits once you retire, but determining how much you’ll receive is a different story. There is a formula, of sorts…