My Comments: Sometimes simple is better, much better. I found these words recently and am sharing them here since so many people are now making the transition to retirement. It’s a stressful time for a lot of reasons and the more you understand the financial dynamics involved, the less stressed out you’ll be. January 11, …
Continue reading How To Maximize Your Social Security Benefits
My Comments: There is a lot of talk these days about the Trump administration wreaking havoc with something that has become synonymous with retirement for many millions of Americans. But I have my doubts since those same millions also vote and are unlikely to sit by idly if their benefits are threatened. Yes, you have …
Continue reading 5 Totally Free Ways to Get Ready for Retirement Using the Social Security Website
My Comments: The transition from working FOR money to having money FOR YOU is full of tension and hard to answer questions. If you’re beyond this stage, then don’t bother with this. On the other hand, if it’s today or in your future, then this is good stuff. Gail MarksJarvis / The Chicago Tribune / …
Continue reading Turning 65 this year? Don’t overlook these 3 steps
My Comments: As an economist, I readily acknowledge that political parties and recessions have little to do with each other. There are too many other variables that result in economic downturns. But the records suggests they are somehow correlated. We are due for one, and if history is any indication, Trump will have the pleasure …
My Comments: Readers of this blog will recall my observations about risk in general and in particular, those that will influence our economic well being in years to come. With the new administration seemingly in favor of conflicts over trade between nations, and of retreating from the forces that have fostered global economic growth for …
My Comments: As a lifelong Democrat, I’m very aware that if a million more people in this country had better jobs and were feeling good about their financial future, Hillary Clinton would probably be taking the oath of office later this month. But they didn't so a different force will be running the asylum for …
My Comments: For many millions of us, the monthly Social Security check keeps us housed, fed, and clothed. This is something society has provided for it’s elder citizens since civilizations appeared on the planet. The way it’s accomplished has changed, but the basic premise has not. Why is that some we have put in charge …
Continue reading A Primer on Social Security Spousal Benefits
My Comments: 88% seems like an irrational number. Whether it is or not, and depending on how you want and expect your life to play out, the dollars you get from Social Security are likely to contribute greatly to your financial peace of mind and standard of living down the road. If you don’t make …
My Comments: I want our economy to improve. It needs to improve. There are problems that are an existential threat to the continued welfare and wellbeing of my children and grandchildren. Some of these threats result from the natural evolution of societies across the planet, things like demographics, the improving longevity of our species, and …
Continue reading A Better Economy Under Trump Seems Unlikely
My Comments: Why, you might ask, is this relevant? Here is my answer: If you are retired, or making plans to retire, it could greatly influence the amount of money you have to spend and live on during the next decade. And with Trump promising to cede economic leadership to China by killing the TransPacific …
Helping Define Your Financial Future 