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Benefits

A Smart – And Little-Known – Spousal Social Security Strategy

When it comes to Social Security benefits, the author of today’s article points out an unfortunate reality: “Many retirees are depending on their benefits for a substantial source of income, yet they don’t fully understand how to maximize those monthly checks.” She proceeds to outline a little-known Social Security strategy for couples that, while perhaps not a pleasant one to… 

Why Retirees Aren’t Making The “Financially Optimal” Social Security Decision – And Leaving Trillions On The Table

$3.4 trillion. According to a new study, that’s how much retirees have lost, and are losing, by not making the optimal decision when it comes to when to claim Social Security benefits. That’s $111,000 per household! According to the study, “the average Social Security recipient would get 9% more income in retirement by making the ‘financially optimal’ decision about when… 

To Delay Or Not To Delay: What Some New Studies Say About Social Security Claiming

When it comes to determining when to start claiming Social Security, the author of today’s article notes that “few decisions are as financially consequential…or as hard.” As such, he attempts to provide some Social Security claiming guidance based on the findings of some new studies. Why does one new study conclude that postponing claiming Social Security may be even more… 

Inflation Protection For Retirement

While inflation may currently be low, the author of today’s article warns that “this makes the possibility of an inflation threat going forward even more likely.” Moreover, she notes that health care costs are rising faster than inflation. All of this poses a particular threat to retirees relying on sources of income that lack inflation protection. As such, the author… 

Alternatives To Traditional Long-Term Care Insurance

When it comes to traditional long-term care insurance, the author of today’s article acknowledges that “for the typical retired couple in the United States, $3,200 a year is a meaningful expense. Especially when they are paying for something that they might never use.” As such, he provides an overview of how the insurance industry has changed over the last several… 

Advanced Retirement Package Negotiating

“Companies are willing to concede quite a bit – but people need to know what retirement benefits to ask for and how to ask,” states today’s article, which examines the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to negotiating a retirement package. From approaching negotiations as a battle rather than as “a collaborative conversation”, to focusing on money at the… 

Savings Vehicles For The Self-Employed. Which Is Right For You?

“Americans running their own businesses wear many hats… [including] that of retirement benefits coordinator,” states today’s article. “If you’re an independent contractor or an entrepreneur, you have to fend for yourself when it comes to benefits, including retirement planning….” As such, the author outlines two retirement-planning vehicles for the self-employed – solo 401(k)s and SEP IRAs – and the benefits…