Social Security

Social Security was enacted in 1935 to provide some relief to America's destitute older citizens during the economic cataclysm known as the Great Depression. A direct descendant of that more limited effort, today's Social Security retirement program is in fact...

Elderlaw 101

Social Security doesn't just pay retirement benefits to retired workers; in some circumstances, it also provides benefits to a worker's spouse or . . .

Elderlaw 101

If you are about to turn 70,and have delayed claiming Social Security retirement benefits up till now, you are joining an elite group, but it’s important to know when and how to claim.

Elderlaw 101

As a spouse, you have the option of claiming a Social Security retirement benefit based on your own earnings record or collecting a spousal benefit equal to half of your spouse’s Social Security benefit.

Elderlaw 101

If your resources are above the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program’s resource limits of $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a married couple, you may be able to "spend down" to qualify for SSI, similar to the process to qualify...

Elderlaw 101

A little-known feature of the Social Security system is that in addition to paying retirement benefits for the retired worker, it may provide benefits to the worker's spouse, an ex-spouse if the marriage lasted at least 10 years, and dependent...

Elderlaw 101

You can apply for retirement benefits online, over the phone or in person. ...

Elderlaw 101

Although Social Security retirement benefits alone are generally not taxable, people with even a modest amount of income in addition to their Social Security payments may pay taxes on their benefits. ...

Elderlaw 101

If you think you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, you should fill out an online disability report and then call your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office to complete your application. ...

Elderlaw 101