Social Security
The maximum Social Security benefit in 2026: $5,181 at age 70
The maximum Social Security benefit in 2026 is $5,181 a month at age 70. Here's exactly who qualifies, why few do, and how to raise your own check.
Form SSA-44: lower your 2026 IRMAA after a life-changing event
If a life-changing event cut your income, Form SSA-44 lets you ask Social Security to lower your 2026 Medicare IRMAA surcharge. Here's how to file it.
Fix a missing year on your Social Security earnings record in 2026
A missing year on your Social Security earnings record can shrink your check. Here's how to spot the gap and fix it before the deadline closes.
Social Security overpayment notice in 2026: act before the 50% clawback
Got a Social Security overpayment notice in 2026? SSA can now withhold 50% of your check. Here's how to appeal, ask for a waiver, or lower the rate in time.
How Social Security benefits get taxed in 2026: the provisional income trap
Up to 85% of your Social Security can be taxed in 2026 once provisional income crosses fixed IRS thresholds. Here's the math and how to plan ahead.
Divorced spouse Social Security benefits in 2026: the 10-year rule
Married 10 years and now 62 or older? You may claim up to half your ex's Social Security in 2026 — even if they haven't filed yet. Here's exactly how.
Social Security earnings limit 2026: how much you can earn while working
In 2026 you can earn up to $24,480 before Social Security docks your check if you're under full retirement age. Here's how the earnings test really works.
Claiming Social Security at 62 vs 67 vs 70: the 2026 breakeven math
Claiming Social Security at 62 locks in 70% of your benefit; waiting to 70 pays 124%. Here's the 2026 breakeven math and when each choice wins.
SSDI vs SSI in 2026: which disability program fits, and the $2,000 rule
SSDI rewards your work history; SSI is needs-based with a $2,000 asset cap. Compare the 2026 rules, dollar limits, and health coverage for each.
Social Security survivor benefits in 2026: widow and widower rules
Survivor benefits pay up to 100% of a late spouse's Social Security. See the 2026 age rules, the 71.5% early-claim cut, and the earnings limits.
Social Security survivor benefits: the timing rules widows get wrong
Survivor benefits don't grow past your full retirement age, but your own can. Here's how widows and widowers can time the switch and avoid leaving money behind.
Set up your my Social Security account: the 10 minutes that block fraud
A my Social Security account takes about 10 minutes, blocks a common identity-theft route, and unlocks every SSA online tool. Here's the 2026 walkthrough.
Social Security Fairness Act: who gets a WEP/GPO refund and when
The Social Security Fairness Act ended WEP and GPO. See who qualifies for a retroactive check, the average increase, and when SSA finished paying.
Social Security claiming for couples in 2026: when delaying really pays
For most couples, the higher earner should delay Social Security to age 70 — boosting both lifetime income and the survivor benefit. Here's the 2026 math.
2026 Social Security COLA: 2.8% raise meets a $17.90 Medicare hike
The 2026 Social Security COLA is 2.8%, adding about $56 a month. A $17.90 Medicare Part B premium hike eats into the raise. Here's the real math.