Caroline J Raker, RSSA®
Owner
CJR Financial Services
Stephenson, VA US
Professional Profile
I help individuals and families navigate the complexities of financial planning, covering critical areas like savings, insurance, and retirement strategies. Without a clear plan, these decisions can feel daunting and costly—something I’ve experienced personally.
Despite growing up in a financially secure family, my parents lacked a solid financial plan for their later years. As a result, I saw them go from financial stability to hardship. I had to step in as Power of Attorney, selling their belongings to cover assisted living costs for my mother and moving my father into my home.
This experience inspired me to dive deeper into financial management. I became a licensed health and life insurance agent and joined a financial services company and recently, I also became a Registered Social Security Analyst, specializing in helping individuals and couples optimize their Social Security benefits, retirement timing, and survivor benefits.
Additionally, I have extensive experience in Medicaid and Medicaid Waivers through my journey with two sons who live with severe disabilities. Due to the knowledge I have gained, I’m recognized as an expert in these areas and leverage my knowledge to serve families in similar situations.
In addition to my professional work, I volunteer with the Society for Financial Awareness, where I educate individuals, organizations, and businesses on practical financial principles that benefit people of all backgrounds and professions.
My goal is to use my expertise to craft personalized financial solutions that meet my clients’ unique needs thereby securing their future and generations to come.
Real Stories from Real People
Most People Leave Money on the Table
96%
Don't Optimize
Very few people get all the Social Security they deserve.
$111,000
Is Lost
The average household is losing $111,000 in potential income.
1 Chance
To Claim
Social Security gives you one chance to get it right – forever.
Maximize Your Benefits
Discover important information for your situation.
Married
If you are married, you may be able to collect up to one-half of your spouse’s Social Security benefit. This won’t affect your spouse’s checks. Ask an RSSA® for details.
Divorced
If you are divorced and 62 or older, you may qualify to receive Social Security benefits from your ex-spouse — in addition to your own Social Security payments. Ask an RSSA® for details.
Widowed
If your spouse has passed away, you may be eligible for a survivor benefit. The extra money may be essential for you. Ask an RSSA® for details.
Single
If you are single, and solely responsible for your retirement, making the optimal Social Security claiming decision is particularly important. Ask an RSSA® about your options.
Self-Employed
As a self-employed person, you may be able to decrease your payroll taxes — yet still receive the maximum income from Social Security. Ask an RSSA® for details.
Disability
Social Security can provide valuable disability benefits if you qualify, but these benefits — and how you qualify for them — are often misunderstood. Ask an RSSA® for details.
Immigrant
If you are a lawful permanent resident, but not yet a citizen, you may still qualify for Social Security benefits. Ask an RSSA® for details.