Hi there. As Social Security Month wraps up, here are the key updates you need to stay informed. Please reach out at info@rssa.com with any feedback on our newsletters. We are always happy to hear from you!
|
|
|
RSSA Grows Nationwide Service Team to More Than 1,000 Trained Social Security Experts. Read the press release.
National Association of Registered Social Security Analysts Completes the AgeTech Collaborative™ from AARP Accelerator Program. Read the press release.
|
|
|
|
|
Have you checked out RSSA’s special feature in Kiplinger?
This in-depth piece highlights the vital role Registered Social Security Analysts (RSSAs) play in helping Americans make smarter, more personalized decisions about their Social Security benefits. With retirement planning more important than ever, it’s an honor to see the RSSA credential recognized by such a respected publication. Read the full article.
|
|
|
These Are the Best Resources for Understanding and Managing Your Social Security Benefits
Source: MSN
“If you’re looking for additional help with getting into the Social Security program and its benefits, look to the Registered Social Security Analysts website at rssa.com for help…” RSSA is proud to be recognized as a trusted resource for helping people maximize their benefits. Read the story.
How to Solve Social Security Problems Online, Over the Phone or In Person
Source: US News & World Report
“Online is absolutely the best way to start with everything,” RSSA co-founder Martha Shedden tells journalist Maryalene LaPonsie. Read the story.
|
|
|
Question: My wife, a retired teacher with a pension of $5,000 a month, turned 62 in September last year. Could she claim her benefit now and then convert to a higher spousal benefit in 2028 when I turn 67?
Martha’s response: When your wife files for benefits, she will be deemed to be filing for all the benefits she is entitled to at that time. If she files now, she is not yet eligible for spousal benefits (based on your earnings record) since you have not started collecting your retirement benefits. In 2028, when you file at age 67, she would then be eligible for a spousal “top-off” amount if her own benefit amount is less than the spousal amount…Read the full response.
Ask Martha your own question.
|
|
|
Will Social Security Survive Its Fiscal and Political Challenges?
In the recent episode of America Trends Podcast, Martha Shedden joins host Larry Rifkin to talk all things Social Security. They discuss many aspects of Social Security income planning as well as the macro issues surrounding its financial viability, efforts to privatize it and questions surrounding the taxing of these benefits on the federal, as well as state level.
Listen to the episode.
|
|
|
💡 Social Security Spotlight: Taxes
|
April 15th was Tax Day! Here’s what you should know about Social Security and Taxes.
Do I have to pay taxes on my Social Security benefits? It depends on your total income. If your combined income (which includes half of your Social Security benefits, plus other income like wages, pensions, or investment earnings) exceeds certain thresholds, up to 85% of your benefits may be taxable. For individuals, taxation begins at $25,000 or higher; for couples filing jointly, it begins when combined income is $32,000 or higher.
Are Social Security taxes the same as income taxes? No. Social Security payroll taxes are what workers and employers pay to fund the Social Security program. These are separate from federal income taxes. In 2025, workers pay 6.2% of their wages (up to $176,100) toward Social Security, and employers match that amount.
Do self-employed individuals pay Social Security taxes? Yes. Self-employed workers pay both the employee and employer portions of the Social Security tax.
Does working in retirement affect how my Social Security benefits are taxed? Yes. If you’re under full retirement age and continue to work while receiving benefits, part of your benefits may be withheld. At full retirement age, your benefit is recalculated and increased to account for the amount withheld. Additionally, your earnings could push your total income high enough to make a portion of your benefits taxable.
|
|
|
📢 Social Security Administration Updates
|
April was another busy month for the Social Security Administration with five updates.
Digital SSN Access Launched: You can now request your Social Security number online through a secure digital system, improving convenience and security.
New Deputy Commissioner Appointed: Stephen Evangelista has been named Deputy Commissioner for Operations, overseeing how Social Security services are delivered.
National Social Security Month Returns: April is once again National Social Security Month, promoting awareness and planning for your future benefits.
Statement on Benefit Eligibility: SSA reaffirmed that only individuals legally eligible under federal law can receive Social Security benefits.
Stronger Phone Security for Claims: New anti-fraud measures are in place for telephone claims to better protect your identity and information.
Learn more.
|
|
|
This past month, our team hit the road to attend three key industry events. We started at Medicarians in Las Vegas, where we explored the future of senior health and wealth. Then in Orlando, we joined Medicare professionals at MedicareCon and later attended the Age of Innovation conference, focused on advancing solutions for aging populations. We’re excited to carry these insights forward and look ahead to more opportunities to connect at upcoming events throughout the year.
Check out photos from these events.
|
|
|
|
Disclaimer: The National Association of Registered Social Security Analysts, Ltd. has no affiliation with the Social Security Administration or any other government agency. The Social Security information provided in this email and on the website does not and is not intended to constitute financial advice. All information, content, and materials available in this email and on this site are for general informational purposes only.
|
|
|
|
