Research shows that following Dave Ramsey's advice to claim Social Security at 62 is financially disadvantageous, as it results in significantly lower benefits compared to delaying until 70, which increases benefits by 24%. Early claiming incurs penalties that reduce monthly benefits by 30%, making it a costly mistake for most retirees.
In 2026, Social Security beneficiaries will receive their monthly payments on Wednesdays, with the schedule based on their birth dates, similar to 2025. The year will also see a cost-of-living adjustment, Medicare increases, and potential tax relief, supporting around 74 million Americans relying on these benefits.
In 2026, Social Security will see several significant changes including a 2.8% COLA, increased earnings-test limits, higher maximum benefits, a rise in the wage cap, and more challenging work credit requirements, impacting both current and future beneficiaries.
The article explains the Social Security benefit payment schedule for 2026, detailing how payment dates are determined by birth dates and providing specific dates for each month, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments.
Social Security payments for January 2026 are scheduled based on beneficiaries' start date and birth date, with specific dates for SSA and SSI recipients, and guidance provided for reporting missing payments.
Starting in 2026, federal and state Social Security tax rules will change, with West Virginia ceasing to tax benefits and other states like Connecticut and Vermont continuing to do so; older Americans will also benefit from expanded federal tax breaks through 2028.
Japan's government plans to unveil a record ¥122.3 trillion budget for FY26, increasing spending by 6.3% to address social security, defense, and economic needs, while managing debt issuance carefully amid concerns over fiscal sustainability and rising long-term yields.
A U.S. circuit court ruled that in cases like fibromyalgia, where no objective medical tests exist, subjective patient testimony must be given significant weight in disability benefit decisions, reversing a previous denial for a woman suffering from the condition and emphasizing the importance of recognizing such illnesses in the disability process.
Many retirees overlook the impact of investment fees, which can silently drain thousands from their savings over time, especially when fees are high relative to returns. Managing these costs is crucial for preserving nest eggs and ensuring financial stability in retirement.
Social Security benefits are largely protected from garnishment by federal law, but it's important to understand which debts can be garnished and to take proactive steps such as managing debts, using direct deposit, and keeping benefits in a separate account to safeguard your income.
Social Security benefits will see a historic 2.8% COLA in 2026, the highest in 40 years, driven by inflation exacerbated by President Trump's tariffs, but this increase may still not fully offset rising housing and medical costs for retirees.
The Social Security Administration announced that SSI and Social Security benefits will increase starting late December 2025 due to an annual cost-of-living adjustment tied to inflation, with maximum federal SSI benefits rising to $994 for individuals and $1,491 for couples, though some advocates believe the increase is insufficient to match rising living costs.
The Federal Reserve's recent rate cut may lead to a lower Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for Social Security retirees in 2027, as lower inflation projections suggest smaller benefit increases, potentially impacting retirees' purchasing power.
The full retirement age for Social Security benefits is gradually increasing due to demographic shifts and fiscal pressures, with the new rules pushing the age higher for many beneficiaries, encouraging delayed claiming for higher monthly benefits and requiring retirees to adjust their long-term financial plans.
Social Security's trust fund is projected to be depleted by 2033, risking significant benefit cuts unless Congress takes action. The issue stems from demographic shifts and a declining ratio of workers to retirees, creating a political challenge as solutions like tax hikes, benefit cuts, or funding from general revenues face opposition. While the problem is urgent, current political will suggests that some form of the program will persist, but the path to sustainability remains contentious and uncertain.