Social security basics. Qualifying for retirement benefits ; How retirement benefits are calculated ; Spousal benefits ; Widow(er) benefits -- Rules for less common situations. Social security for divorced spouses ; Child benefits ; Social security with a pension ; The earnings test -- Social security planning: when to claim benefits. The claiming decision for single people ; Couples with one working spouse ; Couples with two working spouses ; Taking social security early to invest it -- Other related planning topics. Checking your earnings record ; How is social security taxed? ; Social security and asset allocation ; Do-over options.
Summary:
How your Social Security retirement benefits, spousal benefits, and widow/widower benefits are calculated. How your benefits are affected if you have a government pension or if you continue working while claiming Social Security. How to decide when is the best age for you (and your spouse, if you're married) to claim Social Security in order to get the most out of your benefits. Whether or not it makes sense to take Social Security early in order to invest the money. How to check your earnings record on the Social Security Administration's website to make sure you're getting the full benefit you deserve. How Social Security benefits are taxed and how this affects retirement tax planning. It's a sure bet that the Social Security system will continue to evolve-- but you need to understand the system now. Piper shows you how your Social Security retirement benefits, spousal benefits, and widow/widower benefits are calculated, and explains the factors and benefits that affect when you should retire. He also covers topics such as how to check your earnings record on the Social Security Administration's website, and how to benefits are taxed.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.