Deciding when to claim Social Security is one of the most important financial decisions many people make in retirement. It is also one of the most confusing. With a complex web of rules, age-based adjustments, and family considerations, it is easy to make a choice that feels right in the moment but leads to a…
Post Type Archives: Resources
NARSSA Expands to Nearly 2,000 Locations for Americans Needing Assistance From Certified Social Security Experts
NARSSA has announced that it has expanded its nationwide network of nearly 2,000 field locations where Americans can seek both in-person and remote access to certified Social Security experts. Known as Registered Social Security Analysts (RSSA®), these experts provide additional value added services beyond what employees at the Social Security Administration offer, including the ability…
What to Know About the 2026 Social Security COLA
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2026. This annual increase ensures that benefits keep pace with inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). The new adjustment will take effect in January 2026 for most beneficiaries, providing a modest boost…
Social Security Administration Announces 2.8% COLA Increase for 2026
After a nine day delay caused by the Federal Government Shutdown, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2026, reflecting the rising cost of living as measured by the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) from July through September. This adjustment, alongside updates to…
It’s World Financial Planning Day
Today is World Financial Planning Day! Whether you’re helping clients build a retirement strategy or planning your own financial future, understanding Social Security is a key part of long-term financial wellness. The timing and strategy behind when and how you claim can make a significant difference in your lifetime income and retirement security. Financial professionals…
October is National Retirement Security Month
October is National Retirement Security Month. This month is all about raising awareness of the importance of saving, planning, setting goals, and knowing your options for a secure retirement. While Social Security provides a foundation of income, most people will need additional savings and planning to reach their goals. Understanding how Social Security fits into…
NARSSA Announces Partnership with Social Security Advisors
The National Association of Registered Social Security Analysts has announced that it has entered into a partnership with Social Security Advisors, a Social Security advisory firm that has more hands-on Social Security planning, filing, and troubleshooting experience than any other private company in the country. The new partnership will combine the forces and experience of…
Social Security Paper Checks End September 30, 2025
Still getting your Social Security in the mail? That ends now. Starting today September 30, 2025, the SSA will officially stop mailing paper checks for benefit payments. Nearly everyone already receives their benefits electronically, but for the less than 1% who still get paper checks, it’s time to make the switch. Electronic payment has long…
Redesigned RSSA® E-Learning Program
Happy National Online Learning Day! We’re excited to share that NARSSA has officially launched the redesigned RSSA® E-Learning Program. Now powered by the iSpring Learn platform, the course offers a refreshed experience that’s smoother, more interactive, and easier to navigate. Online learning has never been more accessible, and we’re proud to make our education program…
90 Facts for 90 Years: Celebrating Social Security’s Milestone Anniversary
This August marked a historic milestone: Social Security turned 90 years old. Since 1935, the program has touched the lives of nearly every American, providing a foundation of financial security for retirees, people with disabilities, survivors and more. To celebrate, we shared 90 facts in honor of 90 years; spotlighting the program’s history, impact, and…