Hi there. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or planning your next getaway, this month’s Social Security updates are ready for takeoff, including tips for receiving benefits while abroad.
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RSSA Roadmap Software Update
We’ve introduced several new features, and one of the most impactful is the ability to generate Roadmap reports in Spanish. This update makes it easier than ever to serve Spanish-speaking clients and households.
Local PR Program Off to a Strong Start
Several RSSAs have already joined the new Local PR Program. While it’s brand new, the program is built on the same foundation as our national communications efforts—which have delivered strong results. This is a powerful opportunity to grow your visibility, credibility, and client base in your local market. Learn more.
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Kiplinger | 13 Answers to Pressing Social Security Questions
NARSSA and the RSSA® credential are featured in the July 2025 issue of Kiplinger Personal Finance. Senior Editor Sandra Block answers 13 key Social Security questions, with expert insight from our co-founder, Martha Shedden. The article also spotlights Registered Social Security Analysts® as certified professionals who help clients navigate Social Security and maximize their benefits. Read the story.
MarketWatch | Here’s what Americans are willing to sacrifice to save Social Security
With the Social Security trust fund projected to run short by 2034, Americans across all demographics are voicing strong, bipartisan support for action. In her latest article, Alessandra Malito explores what people are actually willing to sacrifice to protect the program. “There is such a desire for the program to be strengthened and even improved,” says NARSSA President Martha Shedden. Read the story.
FA Magazine | New Program Helps Advisors Publicize Their Social Security Expertise
“Advisors who want to stand out as Social Security experts in their local communities now have a resource designed to help them attract the desired attention.” Financial Advisor Magazine highlights NARSSA’s newly launched Local PR Program, designed to help RSSAs gain visibility and grow their practices in their own communities. Read the story.
News 5 Cleveland | Dueling letters, contradictions, a man confused: There’s ‘chaos’ at Social Security, says national expert
What’s all this “chaos” about? Watch NARSSA’s Martha Shedden on air with News 5 Cleveland, weighing in on the confusion and contradictions affecting SSA communications, and what it means for the public. Watch the segment.
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Full question: My husband was collecting disability through Social Security and he passed away. I was planning to retire in August. Would it be possible to claim survivor benefits until I am old enough to claim my own benefits?
Martha’s response: Yes, you can claim survivor benefits based on your late husband’s Social Security disability record while delaying your own retirement benefits. You are eligible to start receiving survivor benefits as early as age 60 and they reach the maximum amount if you wait to claim them until your FRA. If you choose to delay your own retirement benefits, the amount will continue to increase each month, up to age 70, until you decide to claim them. Please note that if you are working while receiving survivor benefits and are younger than your full retirement age, your benefits may be affected by the earnings test if your income exceeds certain limits…Read more.
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💡 Spotlight: Social Security & Travel
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Can I still receive my Social Security benefits if I’m traveling or living abroad? Yes. In most cases, U.S. citizens can receive benefits while outside the U.S., whether traveling temporarily or living abroad. However, there are some country-specific restrictions.
What if I’m just traveling for a few weeks or months? Short-term travel doesn’t affect your benefits. As long as you remain eligible and keep your information up to date with the SSA, your payments will continue without interruption.
What if I move abroad permanently? Social Security can send payments to most countries, but not all. Before relocating, check SSA’s Payments Abroad Tool to see if benefits can be sent to your new country.
How will I receive my payments overseas? You can have benefits deposited directly into a U.S. or eligible foreign bank account. SSA partners with many international banks to make this possible.
Do I need to report anything to SSA while I’m abroad? Yes. You must report any changes to your address, marital status, work activity, or citizenship. Not reporting changes can lead to benefit interruptions or overpayments.
Bottom line: You can enjoy your summer travels, and even live abroad, without losing your benefits in most cases. But planning ahead and staying compliant with SSA rules is key.
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📢 Social Security Administration Updates
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Big Beautiful Bill
The new Big Beautiful Bill doesn’t eliminate taxes on Social Security benefits, but it does offer a temporary deduction—up to $6,000 for individuals and $12,000 for couples—potentially reducing or eliminating those taxes for many seniors through 2028. The tax remains in place, but the deduction will shield many recipients from having to pay it.
Payments Sped Up
SSA completed over 3.1 million payments under the Social Security Fairness Act five months ahead of schedule.
Service Improvements
SSA is experiencing faster call center response times, and a 23% drop in field office wait times. Disability backlogs and hearing delays are also down significantly.
Learn more.
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Healthapalooza (HAP25)
We had a great time at Healthapalooza last week in Minnesota! Tom Drapala delivered an engaging session on “Understanding & Optimizing Social Security for Your Clients.”
NABIP Annual Convention
Last month, we were proud to exhibit at the NABIP Annual Convention in Miami. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with so many professionals in the field.
NAIFA x NARSSA Webinar
Help your clients make more informed Social Security decisions. Join us on August 6 for a free webinar, “Social Security Unlocked: Maximizing Benefits and Guiding Your Clients.” Martha Shedden will walk through benefit calculations, claiming strategies, and real-life case examples. Register now.
Annuity Producers Live
Join us August 21–22 at the Kalahari Resort in Round Rock, Texas, for Annuity Producers Live. Tom Drapala will be speaking on how Social Security expertise can drive annuity success. Use code RSSA20 for a special registration discount.
📸 Check out photos from these events on our Instagram.
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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.
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