Hi there. Welcome to our latest newsletter, packed with the newest updates and useful information about Social Security and retirement. We’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to reach out anytime at info@rssa.com. Your feedback helps us improve and serve you better!
|
|
|
The Average Social Security Claiming Age is Trending Higher
Source: Kiplinger
More Americans are delaying Social Security, with fewer claiming at age 62 and more waiting until 67 or later. However, Social Security claiming decisions are “highly personal.” Kiplinger writer Donna LeValley says, “It might be best to consult with a professional, such as a registered Social Security analyst, before acting in haste.” Read the story.
5 Steps To Take Immediately If You’re Forced Into Retirement
Source: Yahoo
If you’re unexpectedly forced into retirement, it’s essential to act quickly to stabilize your financial situation. RSSA’s VP of Operations, Norm Haug, offers key Social Security guidance for this scenario, including the request for retroactive benefits and the importance of notifying the SSA if you return to work. Read the story.
4 Reasons Your Social Security Payment Is Delayed and What to Do About It
Source: U.S. News & World Report
Social Security payments can be delayed for various reasons, including banking errors, incorrect direct deposit information, or issues with the SSA. RSSA Co-founder Martha Shedden explains that such delays may occur if the SSA detects irregularities, such as outdated personal information or potential identity theft. Read the story.
|
|
|
Question: I am 63 and drawing child-in- care benefits from my husband’s record. Because our 31 year old disabled daughter and I both draw from husbands record, the amounts are limited to the family maximum. If I earn over the earnings limit in 2025, and my benefits are cut, will our daughter’s benefits be increased?
Martha’s response: If your spousal benefit is reduced due to exceeding the earnings limit, it does not automatically mean that your daughter’s benefits will increase. The family maximum benefit (FMB) is a limit on the total amount that can be paid based on a worker’s earnings record. If one family member’s benefits are reduced or stopped due to the earnings test, it is important to contact the SSA to let them know. Other family members receiving benefits on the same record may possibly receive an increase depending on the actual amounts…Read the full response.
|
|
|
The Danger of Social Security “Short-Term” Thinking
In this archived episode of Social Security: Answers from the Experts, Martha Shedden sits down with Dave Freitag and they discuss his educated views on all sorts of retirement and Social Security issues, and expose many options that people have available to them unknowingly.
Listen to the episode or watch the recording on YouTube.
|
|
|
📢 Social Security Administration Updates
|
New Commissioner of Social Security
On May 7, 2025, Frank Bisignano was sworn in as the 18th Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA)
Overpayment Policy Change
The SSA will now withhold 50% of monthly benefits by default to recover overpayments.
|
|
|
💡 Social Security Spotlight: Overpayments
|
What is a Social Security overpayment? An overpayment happens when the SSA pays you more than you’re eligible for, often due to unreported income, delayed updates, or administrative errors.
How will you know if you’ve been overpaid? You’ll receive a notice from the SSA explaining the overpayment amount, the reason, repayment options, and your rights to appeal or request a waiver.
What are the current repayment rules? As of April 25, 2025, the SSA can withhold up to 50% of your monthly Social Security benefit to recover overpayments. This is a reduction from the previously reinstated 100% withholding rate. The 50% rate applies to retirement, survivor, family, and SSDI benefits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the withholding rate remains at 10%.
Can you appeal or request a waiver? Yes. You have 90 days to request a reconsideration, waiver, or reduced withholding. Recovery is paused while your request is under review.
How can you prevent overpayments? Report changes promptly, review your benefit statements, and keep communication records. RSSAs can help their clients avoid overpayments through careful planning, protecting their benefits and providing them with peace of mind.
RSSA Co-founder Martha Shedden was recently quoted in a story by TheStreet, where she shared her insights on the updated Social Security overpayment rules. Read the full article.
|
|
|
Advocacy & Innovation
The RSSA team made two trips to D.C. this month! At NAIFA’s Congressional Conference, we joined industry peers to advocate for the financial security of American families. We also attended the ATC Summit 2025 by AgeTech Collaborative™ from AARP, diving into new tech and ideas shaping the future of aging. Both events were great opportunities to connect and learn. Check out photos from the events on our Instagram and LinkedIn.
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
