Retirement
Retiring With Confidence
For many Americans, rising costs and changing work patterns are reshaping what retirement looks like. Here is a clearer look...
Why Can’t I get a Lump Sum Death Benefit from my Wife? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: My wife passed away in September 2025 at age 64. We had been married for 43 years and...
Plot Twists: Is Your Financial Plan Ready for Life’s Biggest Transitions?
All good stories have plot twists. In retirement, those twists don't just move your heart—they move your money. Whether it’s...
Help! SSA Says I’m Not Eligible for Benefits – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: Help!! The Social Security Administration says I didn’t pay enough into my Social Security account, despite being a...
Are you Making the Most of Your Benefits This National Social Security Month?
April is National Social Security Month—a perfect time to better understand the benefits and services available to you and your...
When Will I Get Full Credit for Delaying my SS Retirement? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: The time is nearing that I want to move from my current Social Security survivor benefit to my...
Social Security Survivor Benefits – Part 2
Understanding the “Widow Limit” The “widow limit” rules apply in situations where the higher-earning spouse took their benefits early, such as...
Removing Your Personal Data Online Protects Your Retirement Savings from Scams
Sponsored By: Incogni If you're enjoying your retirement years, there's something you need to know: scammers are actively hunting for...
I Lost Money as a Widow and Ex-spouse by Not Knowing the Rules – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I just found out, as someone who was collecting widow’s benefits on my second husband (a very small...
AMAC Foundation Continues “Social Security in 2026” Series with Session 3: Understanding Types of Benefits
The AMAC Foundation continues its four-part educational webinar series, “Social Security in 2026: Changes, Benefits and Insights,” with Session 3:...
When to Apply for Social Security Spouse Benefits
Here at the AMAC Foundation’s Social Security Advisory Service, we answer thousands of inquiries each year, largely focused on when...
Social Security: It’s Not Just for the Elderly!
What do you think of when you hear the term “Social Security?” Those words might conjure up thoughts like “senior citizens,”...
Why is My Social Security Retirement Benefit So Small? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: Can you help me understand? I have paid into Social Security since I started working in 1978. I did...
Going Back to School in Retirement for a Fulfilling New Chapter
For older adults approaching retirement, the idea of going back to school can feel both energizing and intimidating. The core...
About Claiming Social Security Early and Investing It – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I am a 63-year-old single lady, and I have questions regarding Social Security "early retirement," though I will...
I’m Divorced; Can I Get Benefits from my Ex-husband? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: After 16 years of marriage, we were divorced. I have never remarried, but he has. When he starts collecting...
AMAC Presents Free Webinar on Smart, Safe Travel for Retirees
The Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) invites members and fellow seniors to join a free live webinar, “Traveling in...
Why Didn’t My Friend’s Wife Get All Her SS Immediately? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: A friend told me about what he believes is a strange thing in the Social Security system. His...
My Wife Believes She Can Get a Spouse Benefit While I’m Still Alive; Can She? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: A friend of my wife told her, and she believes, she could receive a Social Security benefit based...
I’m on SS Disability; Should I Switch to Regular Social Security? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: Should I take my Social Security now at age 62, or wait till I am 65? I've been...
Living Big on a Smaller Budget: A Practical Guide for Retirees
You don’t need a big budget to live a rich life—you need a clear plan and a few habits that...
6 in ’26! Six Important Financial Changes to Watch for in 2026
As 2026 approaches, several key financial shifts are on the horizon that could influence how Americans save, invest, and plan...
Best Places to Retire 2026
Numerous organizations publish annual lists of top retirement spots for people in the USA, including Bankrate, WalletHub, U.S. News, and...
Is Social Security Really a “Good Deal?” – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: You’ve said in the past that most people recoup their SS contributions within five years of starting benefits,...
Preparing for Retirement – Important Considerations That Can Make or Break It
Choosing the best place to retire is a complex decision. Many organizations publish annual lists of top retirement spots and...
If We Both Collect Social Security, will our Benefits be Affected? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I reached full retirement age back in June, but I have not yet filed to collect Social Security....
Most Retirees Forget This Simple Step—And Scammers Count on It
Sponsored By: Incogni You’ve spent a lifetime planning for retirement, but it could be stolen within a matter of seconds....
Give Back, Get Smart: How QCD’s Help You Make a Difference in Retirement
Retirement isn't just a time to slow down; it's a chance to make a lasting impact. Many retirees are discovering...
The Retirement Bucket Strategy: How to Make Your Savings Last
You worked hard to build your retirement nest egg — now the challenge is making it last.One of the smartest...
Consider the “Wearing Out” Factor While Deciding When to Claim Social Security – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: Enjoyed your recent article on claiming SS benefits. I feel, however, any decision making should also include what I...
Retirement & Social Security Flexibility
Retirement is a milestone achievement that offers freedom to shape a new future. However, it is important to be financially...
Millions of Americans Leave Retirement Funds Behind
It’s a staggering statistic — according to new data from Capitalize, an estimated 31.9 million retirement accounts have been “lost”...
The Retirement Tax Trap: What Every AMAC Member Needs to Know
Taxes Don’t Retire When You Do Many retirees are surprised, and often frustrated, to discover how taxes can quietly erode...
Medicare Open Enrollment: The Perfect Time to Review Your Retirement Income Plan
Every fall, Medicare Open Enrollment (October 15 – December 7) reminds retirees to take a closer look at their health...
When Will My Disability Become My Regular Social Security? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I hope you can answer this question. I’m currently receiving Social Security Disability benefits, and I will be...
Should my Spouse be getting half of my Social Security amount? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I was referred to you to ask a question about Social Security benefits. I receive about $1,700 a...
Fed Cuts Rates! Now What?
Learn how to lock in today’s rates before they drop further. The Federal Reserve has just cut interest rates, and...
Life Insurance Awareness Month — Are You Covered?
You’ve spent decades building your family’s future through hard work and commitment. Life insurance is one of the most powerful...
AMAC Supports Bill to Clarify Social Security Claiming Age Descriptions
September 10, 2025The Honorable Lloyd Smucker11th Congressional District of Pennsylvania302 Cannon House Office BuildingWashington, DC 20515 Dear Congressman Smucker, On...
I’d Like to Retire Early, but Don’t Want My Social Security Reduced – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I will be 65 this year and my husband is 72 (he retired in 2019 at age 66)....
Retirement Withdrawal Rates
When it comes to retirement, there are different philosophies for saving, spending, and preserving money. Some debates exist over common...
Trump’s Share-the-Wealth Retirement Plan Will Help All Americans
The Elizabeth Warrens of the world have long complained about how the rules in Washington and on Wall Street are...
Can I Claim My Own SS Benefit Now and Get Half of My Husband’s Benefit Later? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I would like to get an answer concerning taking my Social Security benefit soon and switching to my...
I’m In Poor Health and Need to Know my Social Security Options – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I plan to stop working very soon. My health is not good. I am 66 years old, born...
Flourishing Longevity: Reimagining Aging with Intention and Purpose
What if life after 60 wasn’t the slow wind-down society has led us to believe it is—but the true performance...
How to Minimize Taxes on Your Retirement Income
Paying taxes is a civic duty as well as a requirement by law and there is no age cut-off. This...
Volunteering After Retirement: Where and How to do it
Living your best life by helping others Retirement is a satisfying phase of life. With newfound free time, retirees can...
Downsizing After Retirement: Tips for a Smooth Move
Downsizing after retirement is a strategic move to simplify life and potentially improve finances and reduce stress. For homeowners, it...
How to Make Your Retirement Savings Last: Smart Budgeting After 65
To comfortably retire at 65, it is said that individuals should aim to have saved 10 to 12 times their...
Psychological Retirement Roadblocks
Psychological roadblocks may occur in conjunction with retirement years. Learn some reasons why and ways to troubleshoot them. What are...
Are You Making These 5 Retirement Mistakes?
Retirement should be a season of peace, purpose, and financial freedom. But for many Americans, one fear overshadows it all:...
What Happens to Your 401(k) When You Change Jobs (And How to Make the Smartest Move)
Changing jobs can be an exciting career move, but it also raises important questions—such as “What happens to my 401(k)...
How Much of Your Retirement Are You Willing to Leave Unprotected?
The recent market downturn should be your wake-up call. The market has taken a significant hit — a sharp reminder...
The Bucket Strategy: How to Structure Your Finances for a Stress-Free Retirement
Retirement should be about freedom, security, and enjoying the life you worked so hard to build—not stressing over whether your...
The Hidden Costs of Retirement: What Most Retiring Americans Overlook
You’ve spent decades working hard, saving, and planning for your golden years. But what if your retirement budget isn’t as...
Retirement at Risk: The 4 Financial Threats You Can’t Afford to Ignore
Retirement should be a time to enjoy the fruits of your labor, but navigating financial complexities can make it stressful....
Practical Ways for Seniors to Save Money
Discovering practical ways to save money is a hot topic for many seniors who depend on Social Security to live....
Best Ways to Save for Retirement
Planning for retirement is a great way to ensure financial security for your future. By taking the proper steps, such...
Demystifying Social Security’s Full Retirement Age (FRA)
Once upon a time, there was no mystery about Social Security’s full retirement age – everyone received their full benefit...
Terms Commonly Associated with Retirement
If you are planning for or nearing retirement, you’ve probably come across some unfamiliar words or phrases that are commonly...
Getting a Late Start On Retirement Savings
There are many reasons why beginning to save early for retirement is beneficial. Mainly, it allows people time to accumulate...
Getting an Early Start On Retirement Savings
Here’s why starting retirement savings while young is worthwhile. Jump starting your savings Saving for retirement is something most adults...
Reflections On Retirement
The picture of retirement looks different for everyone. For some, the transition is smooth. For others, the act of retiring...
Using Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) to Make a Difference in Retirement
As you plan for retirement, it’s natural to think about both your financial security and the legacy you’d like to...
New IRS Increase for Building Employer-Sponsored Retirement Funds
Saving for retirement is a tricky business. If your company offers a 401(k) savings plan, take advantage of the opportunity...
Is It Too Early to Plan for Retirement?
This commonly asked question has a straightforward answer – it’s never too soon. Let’s find out why. Time flies Young...
Considering an ACA Plan After Early Retirement and Before Medicare Eligibility
Navigating health insurance after retirement can be challenging, especially without the guidance of a human resources manager to simplify the...
8 Essential Tips for a Fulfilling Retirement
Retirement marks a significant transition in one's life, offering new freedoms but also bringing new challenges. As you navigate this...
Determining Retirement Income Needs: The Percentage Rule
Retirement planning involves navigating complex calculations and forecasts. From determining an appropriate withdrawal rate from your investments to reducing your...
Young People on the Move!
Retirement-type communities are designed to provide seniors with safe escapes, meaning protected places to live well and enjoy activities. However,...
Six Key Investment Strategies for Your Peak Earning Years
There is a wide array of financial investments available, each typically employing a strategic approach aimed at growing your wealth...
Introducing: Exclusive Financial Services for Our Valued Members
AMAC is proud to introduce RoseMark Advisors, the exclusive provider of financial services for AMAC members!This relationship underscores AMAC’s commitment...
All About Early Retirement
What is early retirement?Early retirement typically refers to the decision to retire from the workforce before reaching the traditional retirement...
Anatomy of a Scam: Investments
Sponsored By - Travelers Investment scams are very common in the U.S., and anyone can become a victim. But for...
Common Social Security Misconceptions
Social Security was established to give economic security to the elderly. The Social Security Bill was signed into law on...
Social Security Basics
Social Security weighs on the minds of many people, from folks experiencing retirement to those in the initial stages of...
Social Security Myths
Social Security is a social insurance program that consists of retirement, disability, and survivor benefits. It is funded by the...
Is Now the Right Time to Retire?
Retirement considerations Retirement is often referred to as the “golden years.” Per US Money Reserve, the term was coined by...
Why Relocate for Retirement?
Moving to retire is a popular trend. Per a study from Hire A Helper, more than 234,000 Americans moved to...
Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act Bust
AMAC Exclusive – By Andrew Shirley A new survey out this week found that inflation is causing some 60 percent...
Retirement Experts Warn ‘There Are Going to be Losers’ Because of Social Security Insolvency
Last week, CNBC hosted a Twitter Space titled “Will Social Security always exist? What you need to know” to discuss...
AMAC Action Weekly Advocacy Update: Retirement
Legislative and Policy SupportH.R. 5193 - Senior Citizens’ Freedom to Work Act of 2023Current Social Security rules disincentivize early retirees...
State Fair Answer Key
AMAC Magazine Exclusive - Vol. 17 Issue 5- SEP/OCT '23 Read the full digital version of the AMAC Magazine issue...
An Excellent Morning Routine Is Key for a Happy Retirement
When you’re aging, everyone talks about the countdown to retirement. According to the latest polls, Americans at retirement age want...
Hobbies for Seniors
Retired seniors benefit from free time Many people who work full time and are raising families find it challenging to...
Biden Plan for Social Security Leads to Major Cuts in Retirement Benefits Checks
President Joe Biden has repeatedly tried to distract Americans by calling for Republicans to keep their hands off Social Security...
5 Financial Regrets of Retirees and What to Learn From Them
Looking back on our life choices, it’s sometimes easy to beat ourselves up over them. We recently polled AMAC members...
AMAC Magazine Exclusive Quiz Answer Key
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AMAC Magazine Exclusive Scamming Update
Keeping Up With Email Scams & Learning About Two Of The Latest by AMAC, D.J. Wilson Scam # 1 –...
Are Your Retirement Funds a Prisoner of ESG Priorities?
By: Steve Moore – Founder of Committee to Unleash Prosperity Washington, D.C. – A comfortable, secure retirement is the dream...
How Well Can You Do on the Social Security Knowledge Quiz?
The Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company has released its annual Social Security retirement benefits quiz results where 1,500 Americans nearing...
I’m Approaching 65 – Should I Claim Social Security? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I am fast approaching 65 (in August) and plan to continue working full time. I would like to...
Will Social Security Create Money-Saving Challenges?
Seniors on fixed incomes regularly face money saving challenges. Social Security is a lifeline for most, but those benefits replace...
Top Three Moments from Social Security Subcommittee Hearing on the Program’s Fundamentals
WASHINGTON, DC – At a Social Security Subcommittee hearing to establish a fact-based foundation and understanding about the imbalance in Social...
Ask Rusty – About Social Security Benefits for My Minor Children
Dear Rusty: I will be 62 in 2024 and am considering starting benefits at that time. I will have two...
AMAC’s Medicare Tip of the Week: What No One Tells You About Keeping Your HSA When You Retire
A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a great way to pay for your health expenses. But did you know there...
AMAC Magazine Christmas Trivia Answer Key
a message from AMACAMAC welcomes all members to join us in this AMAC Magazine Exclusive Christmas Trivia fill-in-the-blank. We strive to...
Ask Rusty – Will the Family Maximum Limit My Benefits?
Dear Rusty: I have a question about the family maximum SS retirement benefit. As I understand it, if the breadwinner...
Ask Rusty – Retired Federal Employee Has Small Social Security Benefit
Dear Rusty: When I started getting Social Security at 62, I was told by the SS office I would get...
Biden’s 401(k) Heist
President Joe Biden's going after 401(k) retirement accounts, risking millions of workers' comfortable retirements. If you put money into a...
Biden And Democrats Are Failing America’s Seniors
By - RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel As costs for everyday goods soar and the U.S. economy spirals under Biden and...
Ask Rusty – Can My Wife Claim a Spouse Benefit First?
Dear Rusty: I have been getting Social Security since age 66. My wife turned 62 in June. We are thinking...
Ask Rusty – How Do We Apply for My Wife’s Spousal Benefit?
Dear Rusty: I am 70 years old and just started receiving my Social Security benefits about 4 months ago and...
A Beginner’s Guide to Social Security
This article first appeared on Mediaplanet Future of Personal Health For many folks, retirement is a destination. Thoughts of someday...
Ask Rusty – About Working While Collecting Early Benefits
Dear Rusty: How much would be withheld from my social security benefits? I am 62 and can claim about $1,900...
Ask Rusty – Will Claiming Early Affect My Wife’s Survivor Benefit?
Dear Rusty: My wife will be turning 62 and eligible to collect Social Security this year. We realize it will...
Retirement: An American Dream That Has Turned Into a Nightmare
WASHINGTON, DC, June 9 -- Some 40% of America’s workforce said “it will take a miracle” to retire securely, according...
Seniors Hard Hit by ‘the Runaway Biden Inflationary Spiral’
WASHINGTON, DC, May 12 – Retired seniors and those who were planning to retire in the near future are scared...
Ask Rusty – Can a Widower Get Full Survivor Benefits Early?
Dear Rusty: My wife passed from COVID-related heart disease in 2020, just short of her 65th birthday. I will be...
Ask Rusty – Will My Wife Get a Spouse Benefit When I Claim at 70?
Dear Rusty: My wife started receiving her social security at 65 (her full retirement age), and she will be 69...
12 Small Business Tax-Saving Strategies
What are the best tax-saving strategies for small businesses? To help small business owners and entrepreneurs save taxes through legitimate...
Ask Rusty – Please Help Us with Social Security Planning
Social Security Dear Rusty: Would you please advise on my wife and my Social Security planning? I'm 69 & 2...
Ask Rusty – Swiss Immigrant Asks About Spouse Benefits
Dear Rusty: I am originally from Switzerland. I moved to the States, got married in 2012, and became a US...
Ask Rusty – Will My Social Security Benefits Ever Be Non-Taxable?
Dear Rusty: If we take our Social Security at our full retirement age (66 years and 6 months for both...
Why Breyer’s Retirement May Not Be the Blessing Liberals Think It Is
AMAC Exclusive - By Seamus Brennan After months of mounting pressure from Democrats and progressive media personalities, news broke Wednesday...
Ask Rusty – Will I Have Any Social Security Benefits?
Dear Rusty: I’m 60 years of age and wonder if I will have any Social Security retirement benefits. After all,...
Should I Take My Widower Benefit Now? Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I lost my wife 7 years ago. I was told that I could possibly collect 30 to 35%...
Exodus: A Look at Congressional Democrats Heading for the Exits
In politics, history is oftentimes a good predictor of the future. We all know that the party that wins the...
How Your Charitable Legacy Can Live On in Hearts and Minds
Sponsored by DonorsTrust - By Stephanie G. Lips When I was diagnosed with cancer in 2017, I found myself very...
About the Basics of Applying for Social Security – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I am planning to apply for Social Security in May of 2022 and would like to understand how to...
Will Retiring Early from Work Affect my Social Security? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I stopped working at age 55, well before my full retirement age of 66 years and ten months....
I’m Terminal; What Are My Wife’s Options as My Survivor? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I’m 60, and my wife is 62. I have terminal Stage IV prostate cancer, but my wife is...
Disability vs. Survivor Benefit – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I have a question regarding Social Security. I’m 54 and applying for disability. I’ve had rheumatoid arthritis since...
Should I Claim Family Benefits? –Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I was born in 1956 and my wife in 1961. I've got 45 years of SSA earnings, and...
When Should I Claim My Survivor Benefit? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: My wife passed away in 2014. I'm 60 years old and have been retired since August 2020. I...
Will My Retirement Benefits Be Cut Because of My State Pension? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: I took early retirement at 20 years from the Louisiana public school system in 1996. Since then, I...
Social Security’s Problems Should be Above Politics and Pandering
A plethora of bills are routinely introduced in every new Congress, mostly by Democrats, promising higher benefits, whether in the...
What Retirees Could Lose Under a Biden Presidency
Several of Joe Biden’s past votes could spell trouble for retirees on issues ranging from the death tax to 401k...
Can I Still Suspend My Social Security Benefits? – Ask Rusty
Dear Rusty: Is it still possible to suspend Social Security benefits for a time? And, if so, how often? Signed:...
Top Two Best Weather Places to Retire in 2021
Green Valley, Arizona – Arizona gets a lot of praise for its amazing weather, beautiful vistas, and a plethora of...
Pandemic Should Reinforce Need for Savings & Social Security PLUS
If there’s one thing the global pandemic should have taught us, let’s hope saving money for unforeseen events is one...
The Fight Goes on to Eliminate Income Taxes on Social Security and Railroad Retirement Benefits
WASHINGTON, DC, Feb 12 – “We’re not giving up on our efforts to eliminate the unfair income tax on Social...
New Bill to Tax Stock Market Could Devastate Ordinary Savings and Retirement
A new tax proposal in Congress aims to stick it to the rich. But if passed, it could devastate the...
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The Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) is here to protect your interests, and to offer an alternative perspective on how to best solve the problems seniors face today. We need you. America needs you.