You qualify for Social Security benefits by earning credits when you work in a job, or are self-employed, and pay Social Security payroll taxes. In 2014, you receive one credit for each $1,200 of earnings, up to the maximum...

Financial planners are telling the truth...the sooner you begin your financial planning, the better off you will be. It's best to stay informed and have a baseline of your current and future financial needs. Keep in mind, Social Security replaces...

I have a friend who contracted the Hepatitis C virus years ago, and who is now suffering with liver cancer. He is unable to work, unable to function on a daily basis. Hepatitis C is the number one...

I have a friend who suffered a fall two years ago. While the cause is still somewhat inconclusive, his subsequent rehab and overall health has put him on the sidelines from work. No income, divorced, with two...

The following provides an important reminder for many seniors reaching and/or exceeding retirement age. Acknowledgements to the Social Security Administration for much of the detail below... Social Security can be an important financial asset for married couples...

The Veterans Administration provides financial benefits in the form of tax-free compensation, and lifetime pensions, to eligible Veterans - in some cases, including surviving spouses. In previous posts, we have reviewed the characteristics, coverage components, and rating structure...

Veterans who are injured or disabled during military service are eligible to be financially "compensated" by the Veterans Administration. The "degree" of disability is defined by the VA, and used to reach a financial benefit determination. Benefit Scale for...

Navigating and understanding the range and breadth of benefits and benefit programs available through the Veterans Administration can be extremely difficult, if not mind-numbing. Over the next several weeks, I will attempt to provide an overview and definition...

As a follow-up to last week's post, we provide greater detail concerning Medicare Part B benefits - along with a reminder to those eligible to enroll NOW! Acknowledgements for much of this information sourced directly from the Social Security Administration... "Most...

As we start to organize ourselves in 2014, it is important for many seniors to take advantage of medical benefits and enroll in Medicare. The following timely reminder is provided by an e-newsletter received from the Social Security...