Author: Russell Settle
Why Is My Pension Killing My Social Security Benefit?
Russell Settle on January 16, 2020
A reader says the government is penalizing him for having a pension. Is he right?
How Much of My Social Security Benefit Can My Ex Take From Me?
Russell Settle on December 29, 2019
A man wonders if his ex-wife will siphon away his Social Security benefit.
Can My Wife Use My Social Security Benefits While Letting Hers Grow?
Russell Settle on December 12, 2019
Your self-discipline in not uttering three little words helps determine whether you can use a key claiming strategy.
Can I Take a Spousal Benefit Without Triggering My Own Social Security?
Russell Settle on November 21, 2019
A husband and wife want to get creative with how they claim Social Security retirement benefits. Can they do so?
When Should I Collect Social Security Survivor’s Benefits?
Russell Settle on November 7, 2019
Grabbing benefits earlier can make sense — but you’ll pay a price.
How Does the ’10-Year Rule’ Impact Social Security Benefits?
Russell Settle on October 27, 2019
Social Security rules can be confusing. A little inexpensive help can straighten things out.
If My Spouse Waits Till Age 70 to Claim Social Security, Will It Help Me?
Russell Settle on October 3, 2019
Making decisions about Social Security often becomes a two-person affair.
Will Claiming Half My Wife’s Social Security Benefit Cost Her Money?
Russell Settle on September 12, 2019
Even experts can make mistakes when mapping Social Security options.
Can We Claim Social Security Benefits Retroactively?
Russell Settle on September 5, 2019
A couple were unaware of their right to a bigger benefit. Can they ask for a do-over?
Can My Wife Claim Social Security Spousal Benefits When I Retire?
Russell Settle on August 15, 2019
This week’s question underscores how asking for a little help can put more money in your pocket.
Social Security Q&A: Will the ‘One-Half’ Rule Slash My Benefit?
Russell Settle on July 25, 2019
Your birthdate determines whether you can use a lucrative Social Security strategy.
Social Security Q&A: Can I Make a Claim on My Ex’s Benefits?
Russell Settle on July 11, 2019
Has there been a divorce in your past? You may be able to claim benefits on your ex’s Social Security.
Social Security Q&A: What Happens to My Spouse If I Die Before Filing for Benefits?
Russell Settle on July 4, 2019
It’s important to think about survivor’s benefits before deciding when to claim Social Security.
Social Security Q&A: How Can My Spouse Squeeze the Most From Her Benefits?
Russell Settle on June 27, 2019
Trying to get the biggest benefit possible? Early claiming can complicate matters.
Social Security Q&A: How Long Must I Wait for My Full Survivor’s Benefit?
Russell Settle on June 13, 2019
Waiting a little while to claim your benefit can pay off handsomely for years to come.
Social Security Q&A: Can I Piggyback on My Ex-Wife’s Benefit?
Russell Settle on May 30, 2019
Being divorced has some advantages when it comes to claiming Social Security benefits.
Social Security Q&A: Is There a Cap on the Benefits My Family Can Earn?
Russell Settle on May 16, 2019
An odd quirk in a Social Security formula favors higher-benefit families over lower-benefit families.
Social Security Q&A: How Much of My Spouse’s Benefit Can I Get?
Russell Settle on April 4, 2019
A little rule with a funny name can have a big impact on your Social Security benefits.
Social Security Q&A: Can I Get Survivor’s Benefits If My Spouse Died Young?
Russell Settle on March 21, 2019
You might be able to collect survivor’s benefits even if your spouse dies before the age of 62. But you must meet a couple of key conditions.
Social Security Q&A: Can Avoiding Marriage Boost Our Benefit?
Russell Settle on March 7, 2019
Saying “I do” can have both positive and negative impacts on the size of your monthly Social Security payment.
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