Social Security & Medicare
10 articles in Social Security & Medicare
Social Security: How It Works, What You'll Get, and When to Claim
Social Security pays 75 million Americans. Learn how benefits are calculated, when to claim, and what the 2026 numbers mean for your retirement.
How Social Security Benefits Are Calculated
Learn exactly how Social Security calculates your benefit using AIME, bend points, and the PIA formula, with 2026 numbers and worked examples.
When to Claim Social Security for Maximum Lifetime Income
Claiming Social Security at 62 vs 67 vs 70 can mean a $300,000+ lifetime difference. See the breakeven math and strategies for your situation.
Working While on Social Security: Earnings Limits Explained
The 2026 Social Security earnings limit is $24,480. Learn what counts as income, how withholding works, and why you get the money back.
9 min read
Medicare: Parts A, B, C, and D Explained in Plain English
67.3 million Americans are on Medicare. Here's what Parts A, B, C, and D actually cover, what they cost in 2026, and how to choose between them.
Medicare Premiums: How Much You'll Pay and What Drives the Cost Up
Medicare Part B costs $202.90/month in 2026. But high earners pay up to $689.90. Here's what drives your premium and how to plan for it.
Social Security COLA: How Your Benefits Keep Up with Inflation
The 2026 Social Security COLA is 2.8%, adding about $54/month. Learn how COLA is calculated, why it may not keep up, and what it means for you.
Social Security Spousal Benefits: What You're Entitled To
You could get up to 50% of your spouse's Social Security benefit. Learn the eligibility rules, the math, and why timing matters.
Social Security Disability (SSDI): Who Qualifies and How
Only 36-38% of SSDI applications are approved initially. Learn who qualifies, how benefits are calculated, and how to improve your odds.
IRMAA: The Medicare Surcharge High Earners Don't See Coming
IRMAA adds up to $487/month to your Medicare premium based on income from 2 years ago. See the 2026 brackets and strategies to avoid the cliff.