Social Security For Dummies
Description
Get the Social Security benefits you've earned
In the newly updated Social Security For Dummies, you'll find all the basics on Social Security, plus the latest updates and changes, so that you can make the most of your benefits. With clear jargon-free language and instructions, you'll figure out when to start taking your benefits, based on your unique situation and goals. This bestseller simplifies the complex Social Security system, a cornerstone of many people's retirement budgets. Social Security For Dummies will arm you with the knowledge you need to maximize your financial well-being.
- Get a comprehensive guide to the foundations of Social Security
- Understand your benefits and prepare your long-term financial plan
- Learn the latest benefits and find guidance on updated policies
- Determine the best time to apply for Social Security
Whether you're gearing up for retirement, already in the Social Security groove, or helping a loved one navigate the benefits maze, this book is your golden ticket to financial peace of mind.
More details
Other editions
Additional editions
Person
Jonathan Peterson is a former Executive Communications Director at AARP and an award-winning journalist. His interest in Social Security began when he covered the political debate in Washington that led to major reforms in 1983. He is a former Washington correspondent for the Los Angeles Times.
Content
Introduction 1
Part 1: Getting Started with Social Security 5
Chapter 1: What Social Security Is and Why You Need It 7
Chapter 2: A Breakdown of Benefits 19
Chapter 3: Deciding When to Start Collecting Retirement Benefits 39
Chapter 4: Protecting Your Number and Securing Your Card 55
Part 2: Taking the Plunge: Filing for Social Security 71
Chapter 5: Signing Up for Benefits 73
Chapter 6: Determining How Much You've Earned 87
Chapter 7: Navigating the System 97
Chapter 8: When You and Social Security Disagree: The Appeals Process 121
Part 3: Who Benefits and When 139
Chapter 9: Spousal Benefits: Watching Out for Each Other 141
Chapter 10: Family Benefits: Who Gets What 155
Chapter 11: When You Can't Work: Social Security Disability Benefits 171
Part 4: Social Security and Your Future 195
Chapter 12: Enrolling in Medicare 197
Chapter 13: Working in "Retirement" 219
Chapter 14: Shaping a Financial Future You Can Live With 239
Part 5: The Part of Tens 251
Chapter 15: Ten Myths about Social Security 253
Chapter 16: Ten Reasons Young People Should Care about Social Security 263
Chapter 17: (Almost) Ten Choices Facing the Country about the Future of Social Security 271
Part 6: Appendixes 279
Appendix A: Glossary 281
Appendix B: Resources 289
Appendix C: Strengthening Social Security 295
Index 299
