There are three boxes you need to check before you apply. And you'll have to put in some real work to pull this off.

Spousal benefits are available to current spouses and some ex-spouses of qualifying workers. Claiming early can reduce your spousal benefit by up to 35%. You'll only get a spousal benefit if it's ...

President Donald Trump has touted "no tax on Social Security" with the addition of a new senior deduction. Some states still apply levies to benefit income.

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Tom Hager – “Mister Social Security” – offers expert advice from Ohio. This article explains the many Social Security benefits ...

Social Security spousal benefits can be a great boon for retirement planning among couples for whom one partner spent more ...

Dear Liz: I’m 59. In 8 years, I will qualify for an average Social Security income. I have no retirement saved and am not a homeowner but I have been blessed with a modest inheritance. What financial ...

The average Social Security benefit as of January 2026 is around $2,071 per month. Boosting your income today and staying in ...

Social Security survivors benefits can be an important source of financial stability after your partner passes away.

In 2025, Social Security Administration employees were suddenly faced with a heavier workload. Here's how that can impact you when you need help.

If you apply for spousal benefits while your spouse is still alive, you do not continue to earn delayed filing credits because "deemed filing" rules apply. That means Social Security automatically ...