Every Ask Rusty question and answer
Page 2 of 10. Real questions from AMAC members, answered in plain language by a certified Social Security advisor. Back to Ask Rusty
All Ask Rusty questions
294 questions answered · page 2 of 10
-
Is There Income Tax on Social Security Benefits?
The OBBB does eliminate income tax on most SS benefits, but it does so in a somewhat unique way – by providing an additional $6,000 (per person) deduction.
-
Social Security Survivor Benefits – Part 2
A surviving spouse affected by the widow limit may reach their largest survivor benefit amount sooner than their FRA, but will still be subject to a limit.
-
Social Security Survivor Benefits – Part I
Dependents eligible for survivor benefits are usually either or both the spouse or minor child of the deceased.
-
I Lost Money as a Widow and Ex-spouse by Not Knowing the Rules
I Lost Money as a Widow and Ex-spouse by Not Knowing the Rules - Ask Rusty
-
My Friend Is 65; Shouldn’t She Be Exempt From Medicare Payroll Taxes?
Medicare taxes are levied on everyone who works and earns, regardless of whether or not they are currently enrolled in the Medicare program.
-
Social Security for Divorced Spouses
Divorce is frequently traumatic and sometimes acrimonious, but emotions are absent from Social Security’s rules governing benefits for divorced spouses.
-
When to Apply for Social Security Spouse Benefits
We always suggest that each couple evaluate their claiming options considering their spousal benefit as well as their SS retirement benefit.
-
I’m Still Working; Why Didn’t my Benefit Amount Increase?
One seems cheated given the SS taxes paid on income received after applying for benefits without any consideration for that income.
-
Demystifying When to Claim Social Security Retirement Benefits
Wondering when to claim Social Security? The decision can impact your retirement income for life. Learn how to choose the right age in your 8-year window.
-
Why is My Social Security Retirement Benefit So Small?
Your Social Security benefit is based upon your average monthly earnings for the 35 years over your lifetime that you earned the most while contributing.
-
Retirement Security for Couples
Social Security claiming strategies are crucial for couples planning retirement. Learn how age, benefit disparity, and relationship status affect your options.
-
Am I Entitled to More Social Security as a Veteran?
Special Extra Credit for Military Service refers to a special Social Security accommodation available to those who served during specific periods.
-
About Claiming Social Security Early and Investing It
'As a 63-year-old single lady, I have questions regarding Social Security "early retirement," though I will still be working full time. '
-
I’m Divorced; Can I Get Benefits from my Ex-husband?
I’m Divorced; Can I Get Benefits from my Ex-husband? - Ask Rusty
-
Why Didn’t My Friend’s Wife Get All Her SS Immediately?
Why Didn’t My Friend’s Wife Get All Her SS Immediately? - Ask Rusty
-
My Wife Believes She Can Get a Spouse Benefit While I’m Still Alive; Can She?
My Wife Believes She Can Get a Spouse Benefit While I’m Still Alive; Can She? - Ask Rusty
-
I’m on SS Disability; Should I Switch to Regular Social Security?
I’m on SS Disability; Should I Switch to Regular Social Security? - Ask Rusty
-
Why Won’t Social Security Give Me My Benefits?
Working full-time before your full retirement age can delay your Social Security benefits due to earnings limits. Here's what you need to know.
-
Ask Rusty Webinar: What Does the 2026 COLA Increase Mean for Your Social Security?
SSA COLA letters arrive in December—learn what your 2026 benefit will really be after Medicare deductions in this AMAC webinar.
-
About Remarrying and Benefits from an Ex-spouse
About Remarrying and Benefits from an Ex-spouse - Ask Rusty
-
About Tax Filing Status and Medicare
About Tax Filing Status and Medicare - Ask Rusty
-
Is Social Security Really a “Good Deal?”
Is Social Security Really a “Good Deal?” - Ask Rusty
-
If We Both Collect Social Security, will our Benefits be Affected?
If We Both Collect Social Security, will our Benefits be Affected? - Ask Rusty
-
Did the Obama-era Social Security Tax Cuts Hurt the Program?
Did the Obama-era Social Security Tax Cuts Hurt the Program? - Ask Rusty
-
Consider the “Wearing Out” Factor While Deciding When to Claim Social Security
Consider the “Wearing Out” Factor While Deciding When to Claim Social Security - Ask Rusty
-
Should I Ask for Retroactive Benefits?
Should I Ask for Retroactive Benefits? - Ask Rusty
-
Do I Need to Sign Up for an Online Social Security Account?
Do I Need to Sign Up for an Online Social Security Account? - Ask Rusty
-
How Do I Navigate the Social Security Maze?
How Do I Navigate the Social Security Maze? - Ask Rusty
-
Should I Take Social Security Now, or at age 70?
Should I Take Social Security Now, or at age 70? - Ask Rusty
-
When Will My Disability Become My Regular Social Security?
When Will My Disability Become My Regular Social Security? - Ask Rusty