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Social Security Expert
Stan Hinden
— Michael JN Bowles
En español | Stan Hinden is a financial writer and author of How to Retire Happy: The 12 Most Important Decisions You Must Make Before You Retire. He wrote the popular Retirement Journal financial column for the Washington Post, where he worked for 23 years.
Ask a Question | View Social Security Mailbox Archive
The
latest
getting STARTED
Mastering the Mysteries of File and Suspend
When and how you claim your Social Security benefit impact the amount you receive
Are My Social Security Benefits Taxable?
Your state of residence and how much other income you have can affect what you owe
New to Social Security? Here's What You Should Know
Find helpful information on when you'll receive checks, how the system works and more
What Is the Impact of Early Retirement?
Taking Social Security benefits early typically lowers levels for life
How Can I Get Health Coverage?
If I retire at 62, what can I do about health insurance? Medicare doesn't start until 65
divorce/SPOUSAL BENEFITS
Can My Wife Get a Check if I Don’t?
No. A worker must get benefits first, but a spousal claim can follow.
Will Remarrying Reduce My Benefits?
How long you are married affects your eligibility for survivor benefits.
survivor BENEFITS
Who Is Eligible to Receive the Social Security Death Benefit?
The lump sum of $255 could go to a surviving spouse or child.
Who Can Receive Social Security Benefits?
Survivors, homemakers and the disabled can get help toward financial security
TAXES
Veteran Benefits
Social Security & Medicare
miscellaneous ISSUES
Social Security's Ticket to Work
Specialized job and vocational programs help people transition off disability.
What You Need to Know About the Windfall Elimination Provision
Your benefit could change if you get a pension from work not covered by Social Security.
What's a Representative Payee?
It's a person with a special assignment to help a beneficiary manage the monthly check.
How Do I Apply for Disability?
You’ll need to document your condition — and possibly wait a long time to hear back.
Can Your Social Security Payments Be Garnished?
Businesses can't seize your benefits, but in some cases the government can.
Can I Get a Social Security Card If I'm Not a U.S. Citizen?
Yes, if you're here legally. But not all cards allow you to work.
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