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You’ve Paid Social Security Tax, But Where Does It Go?

By Ken Marks | June 15, 2016 | Comments Off on You’ve Paid Social Security Tax, But Where Does It Go?

Remember getting your first paycheck with the anticipation of how much you will receive until you see all the taxes taken out of your check? As Americans we pay 12.4% of the first $118,000 earned to Social Security. When you are employed you and your employer each pay half, but contractors pay the full tax…

5 Of The Biggest Myths About Social Security

By Ken Marks | May 27, 2016 | Comments Off on 5 Of The Biggest Myths About Social Security

The social security system is very intricate and can lead to misinterpretations. For this reason, there can be some common beliefs that are fallacies. Here are the four myths most people believe to be true and are not. Myth 1: Collect Benefits Early If you opt to take your benefits between 62 and full retirement age they…

New Social Security Rules You Can Benefit From

By Ken Marks | May 25, 2016 | Comments Off on New Social Security Rules You Can Benefit From

There were a couple of loopholes to get pay raises through social security; however, that will all change May 1st. On Nov. 2, 2015 the Bipartisan Budget Act was signed which suspended the File and Suspend and Restricted Application for anyone between 62 and 66. The extra benefits are over for those who knew how to take advantage of…

How to Get Benefits for Your Disabled Child

By Ken Marks | April 20, 2016 |

Having a child with disabilities brings an added number of responsibilities onto a parent. Anything that can relieve you as a parent whether that is financial or emotional support should be taken advantage of. The government has made SSI and SSDI resources available to support you and your adult disabled child. Here’s what you need to know to get…

9 Important Deadlines to Maximize Your Retirement Benefits

By Ken Marks | April 12, 2016 |

Ready for the inside scoop? Here are a few essential deadlines that will help you maximize your ability to save on taxes, avoid government penalties and capitalize on fees while you’re on your way to retirement. Age 50If you’re retired police, medic, and/or firefighter, you can take penalty-free distributions from your plan at age 50,…

One Benefit of a Divorce: Social Security

By Ken Marks | March 14, 2016 |

Well into the retirement age?  Have had a divorce?  You should be enjoying your freedom without financial anxiety. Did you know that you could benefit from a divorcee spousal benefit from your ex’s work record even years after a divorce has been filed? This could be the answer to alleviate your worries. Here’s how to…

Avoid These Mistakes! Don’t Risk Your Financial Future

By Ken Marks | February 20, 2016 |

PBS’s Larry Kotlikoff recently gave advice to a man named John about his Social Security benefits. John had called Kotlikoff asking if Social Security had given him the right advice, and upon checking it out, Kotlikoff concluded that Social Security had not only given him the wrong advice but had given him the worst possible advice.…

Don’t Let Your Social Security Number Get in the Wrong Hands

By Ken Marks | February 15, 2016 |

Every guy wants the most beautiful girl in the room’s number. In the same way, thieves want your Social Security number. Even though men might ask, most women don’t feel obligated to give out their phone number to a stranger, and you shouldn’t feel obligated to give out your Social Security number to everyone who…

Social Security Disability Claims Rising Means We’re All in Trouble

By Ken Marks | February 5, 2016 |

The Congressional Budget Office says we’re in trouble: Social Security is becoming as dependable as Velcro holding up the Empire State Building.  Social Security spending is going to double over the next decade with social security disability appeals rising sky high. Planning to retire?  Looks like you’re screwed and unglued.  Unless the federal government gets the situation…