How Does the 2025 Social Security Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) Stack Up to the Last 25 Years?
One of the most important parts of Social Security is the annual cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA. With the price for nearly everything rising over the last few years, the annual raises built into the government program can be a major lifeline for many retirees. Every October, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announces how much more […]
Social Security Just Released the 2025 COLA. Here’s What It Means for Those Receiving Spousal Benefits.
One of the more anticipated events when it comes to Social Security is the announcement of next year’s cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). People are feeling the effects of inflation everywhere, from their groceries to household items, housing, cars, medical care, and more. That’s why retirees pay extra attention to the Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). It’s […]
Nearly Half of Americans Are Absolutely Wrong About This All-Important Social Security Rule
Social Security is the foundation for many Americans’ retirement plans. However, not everyone knows all of the details of how the government program works. There are a few foundational rules everyone should know, but many Americans’ knowledge falls short for even the most basic and important rules governing the program. If you don’t know the […]
The No. 1 Reason to Claim Social Security at Age 62
You can start getting Social Security retirement benefits when you turn 62 years old, the earliest age when they’re available. However, there are downsides to starting benefits at such a young age. Because this is well below your full retirement age, you’ll see your benefits reduced by as much as 30%, compared to your standard […]
Don’t Miss Out: Is Now the Time to Refinance Your Mortgage?
Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool If you own a home, you might be wondering if now is the time to refinance your mortgage to take advantage of dropping interest rates. But is it worth it? The average mortgage rate for most of this year was in the high 6% to 7% range, but it’s now […]
Costco Says This Is Its Biggest Competitor (Hint: It’s Not Sam’s Club)
Image source: Getty Images Some retailers pride themselves on low prices. Others pride themselves on outstanding customer service. At Costco, it’s a combination of both. Shopping at Costco can often lead to big savings on groceries, apparel, and more. And that’s due to the store’s competitive prices coupled with its commitment to customer service that […]
Disappointed by the Social Security COLA? There Could Be More Bad News Coming.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently announced the upcoming cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025, and many retirees feel discouraged by it. Next year’s adjustment will be 2.5%, the lowest since 2021. Once the 2025 COLA takes effect, the average retiree will collect roughly $50 more per month. As costs still remain stubbornly high, shrinking COLAs […]
2 Important Changes to Social Security Were Just Announced for 2025
Recently, the Social Security Administration announced two important changes that are going to affect both current and future retirees. Both changes relate to how much money you’ll have in your pockets next year. Here’s what you need to know. Image source: Getty Images. 1. Current Social Security recipients are getting a cost-of-living adjustment The first […]
4 Signs You Shouldn’t Set Foot in Kohl’s
Image source: Getty Images With nearly 1,200 stores nationwide, Kohl’s has more locations in the U.S. than any other department store. If the long weekend checkout line isn’t enough to convince you of how popular the retailer is, annual revenue of more than $17 billion might. Famous for its popular “Kohl’s Cash,” the Wisconsin-based retailer […]
Social Security Retirees Are in for an Unpleasant Surprise in 2025
If you’re receiving Social Security benefits, you’ll get a bigger check starting in 2025. That’s the good news. Unfortunately, there’s some bad news too. When you get your first check of the new year, you may be surprised to find that the benefits bump is not nearly as big as you were expecting. Here’s why […]