Boomer Retirement Briefs™

How Boomers Are Reshaping and Redefining "Retirement"

Social Security

Back in 1935 when Social Security made its debut, the government had to all but force older Americans to claim their benefits. Today, the situation couldn’t be more different.  Baby Boomers reaching retirement age can’t wait to get their hands on this benefit.  It seems that everyone knows the earliest you can claim is age 62.

But, is that the best age for you to claim? Turns out, when and how to claim your retirement benefit is a major financial decision.  The decision you make is generally irrevocable.  And, the decision you make in your early 60s will impact your income in retirement in your 70s, 80s, 90s and beyond.  What I’m saying here is:  it’s a big deal to get this right.

Take a look at the posts in this section to learn more about this very important and complicated government program. Read the “Did You Knows” and use the helpful resources throughout.

Send me your questions and I’ll help you get an answer – preferably before your stake your claim!

Social Security for Women is Getting Some Attention!

Photo of Marcia Mantell and Linda Hannon from Social Security and women videocast

Thanks to you, my new book, What’s the Deal with Social Security for Women?, is getting noticed.  Turns out, some reporters and podcasters have come calling.  They are interested in Social Security for women as a topic they want to cover.  I’ve had a number  [Read more...]

What’s the Deal with Social Security for Women?

Drum roll, please. I am beyond excited to share some big news with you: my second book was just published! I am thrilled to announce What’s the Deal with Social Security for Women? is finally available for everyone who wants to know more about this incredibly  [Read more...]

Social Security COLA for 2019: Sort of Like a Soft Drink

Folks who already claim Social Security retirement benefits heard they would get more in their checks starting in January, 2019. Good news indeed! In fact, the Social Security COLA—cost of living adjustment—was quite large: 2.8%. That is the highest increase since 2011. But in real  [Read more...]

Social Security Solvency: It Better Be Here to Stay

You may recall last month's blog post, Social Security Solvency: It’s Here to Stay.  In that post, I shared where you can get the numbers to see how the program is working and what the projections are for its longevity.  This month, I wanted more  [Read more...]

Social Security Solvency: It’s Here to Stay

There are some 45,000,000 retirees collecting Social Security retirement benefits today.  More than half of these folks decided to claim their benefit before their Full Retirement Age or FRA.  In fact, 52% of men and nearly 59% of women pushed the “grab-and-go” button well before  [Read more...]