Christina Barra
Professional Profile
As a single (middle aged) woman, I found myself worried about my retirement when my marriage ended in divorce after 20 years. It didn’t take long to realize I wasn’t the only one. Many women who leave the workforce to raise their family, excluding them from Social Security accumulation, find themselves wondering how they’re going to make it through retirement years. When I looked into my Social Security account, I saw my earnings were minimal because of the 20 years I stepped away from taxable earnings. It was through an RSSA that I learned I am eligible to collect Social Security benefits from my former spouses earnings, without him knowing and without it affecting his benefit amount. This is just one example of how working with an RSSA can help You discover and decipher the many layers of the Social Security program. Take time now to work with a Retirement Specialist so you can relax later. You earned it!
Areas of Expertise
- Retirement Specialist
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.
