Friday, 5 December, 2025
The U.S. federal government entered a shutdown on October 1, 2025 after Congress didn’t pass new funding or a stopgap “CR.” Social Security and Medicare continue to pay benefits, but some services slow or pause, agencies furlough staff, and certain nutrition and aid programs face near-term funding stress. Why do […]
Estate Tax and Inheritance Tax are often confused, but they have distinct differences. The Estate Tax is a tax on the total value of a deceased person’s estate before it is distributed to the heirs. This tax is paid by the estate itself. The Inheritance Tax, on the other hand, […]
A pension plan is a retirement savings plan that employers provide to their employees. It is designed to provide income to employees after they retire from work. Here’s a detailed breakdown: 1. What is a Pension Plan? A pension plan is a type of retirement plan where an employer makes […]
When determining the optimal time to claim Social Security, most individuals strive to maximize their retirement income. However, despite the potential for higher benefits, the majority of individuals claim their benefits before turning 70. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), less than 10% of the roughly 3.4 million people […]
When it comes to Social Security claiming options for couples, there are several strategies to consider that can help maximize your benefits. The best strategy depends on your individual circumstances, including your ages, health, life expectancy, income needs, and other retirement resources. Here are some key options and strategies: Key […]
A reverse mortgage is a loan that allows homeowners aged 62 or older to borrow against the equity in their home without having to make monthly payments. Instead, the loan is repaid when the borrower sells the home, moves out permanently, or passes away. The most common type of reverse […]
Caring for an aging adult who wishes to age in place, meaning remaining in their home as they grow older, involves a comprehensive approach that includes adapting the living environment, ensuring proper healthcare, and providing daily living assistance as needed. Here are the recommended steps, tools, safety measures, and resources: […]
Retiring at Full Retirement Age (FRA) rather than waiting until 70 can be influenced by several factors beyond financial planning. Here are some key considerations: Health and Well-being Health Status: As people age, health concerns can become more prominent. Retiring at FRA allows individuals to focus on their health and […]
Medicare provides limited coverage for healthcare services outside the U.S. and its territories, including Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and others. Here’s how the various parts of Medicare, along with Medigap, handle international travel: Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance) Medicare Part A and […]
Retiring at 62 can be an attractive option for many, but it’s crucial to be aware of several key points that could significantly impact financial stability and overall well-being. Here are some crucial considerations: 1. Reduced Social Security Benefits Early Retirement Reduction: Retiring at 62 means you will receive reduced […]