Social Security
News, insights and expert analysis on social security from the team at Kiplinger.
Getting the most out of Social Security is anything but simple. As you near retirement, the decisions you make could have a significant impact on the amount of money you receive, and some of these choices are irrevocable. You’ll need to move carefully to maximize your income stream. Start with our beginner's guide to maximizing your Social Security benefits, then work your way through our other Social Security features, guides and news stories.
Latest
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What to Do if Your Social Security Credits Fall ShortFailing to reach Social Security's 40-credit requirement doesn't mean your tax contributions are lost. Here are some options to help you secure benefits.
By Martha Shedden, CRPC®, RSSA®
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The Average Social Security Check by AgeCompare your average Social Security check with others of your age, and plan for the future.
By Donna LeValley
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Latest Inflation Data Drives Down 2027 Social Security COLA ForecastAs inflation persists, the 2027 Social Security COLA forecast has gone down from June's estimate of 3.8% to 3.6%.
By Donna LeValley
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Social Security Payment Schedule for 2026Find out when you can expect your 2026 Social Security payments and the date you get paid when your scheduled day falls on a holiday.
By Donna LeValley
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The Average Social Security Check in Every StateDo you live in this New England state with the heftiest check? Your Social Security benefit can be affected by where you live.
By Donna LeValley
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The Average Monthly Social Security Check: July 2026The average monthly Social Security check amount might surprise you. Here's a look at July's numbers and why they matter.
By Donna LeValley
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The COLA Challenge: Do You Know How Your Social Security Raise Is Calculated?Quiz Your Social Security raise isn't random. Take the quiz to discover your COLA IQ.
By Donna LeValley
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Are You Really on Your Best Investing Behavior? Take Our QuizQuiz You're only human. And your biggest error as an investor might be simply failing to recognize a basic evolutionary fact. Our quiz can help you do that.
By David Dittman
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How Annuities Can Fill the Social Security Spousal GapSpouses who collect substantial Social Security benefits may see a significant drop in income when one dies. These annuities can help make up for the loss.
By Ken Nuss
