Social Security
News, insights and expert analysis on social security from the team at Kiplinger.
Getting the most out of Social Security is anything but simple. As you near retirement, the decisions you make could have a significant impact on the amount of money you receive, and some of these choices are irrevocable. You’ll need to move carefully to maximize your income stream. Start with our beginner's guide to maximizing your Social Security benefits, then work your way through our other Social Security features, guides and news stories.
Latest
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The Average Monthly Social Security Check: April 2026The average monthly Social Security check amount might surprise you. Here's a look at March's numbers and why they matter.
By Donna LeValley
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Five Reasons You Should Take Social Security At 62 (and Five Reasons You Should Wait)There are sound reasons to take Social Security early. While many experts say it's best to wait until full retirement age to claim benefits, here are some reasons to start early.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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The Turning 65 Quiz: Most People Fail Question #6. Can You Pass?Quiz Take our 10-question quiz to test your understanding of the critical milestones and decisions you'll encounter as you turn 65.
By Donna LeValley
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15 Social Security Tasks You Can Do Onlineretirement Why visit a government office to get your Social Security business done? You can do much of it online.
By Bob Niedt
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Why You Need to Start Your Social Security Claim 4 Months EarlyEven a perfect Social Security plan can fail if you hit a login wall, an ID check snag or a direct-deposit problem. Here's how to make sure that doesn't happen.
By Ray R. Harris, MBA, RSSA®
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Eight Things Medicare Doesn't CoverMedicare Part A and Part B leave gaps in your healthcare coverage. But Medicare Advantage has problems, too.
By Donna LeValley
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Social Security Payment Schedule: When Is Your May Check Arriving?The date your May Social Security benefit arrives depends on the day of the month you were born.
By Kathryn Pomroy
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Quiz: Is Your 2026 Income Actually Taxable?Quiz Test your knowledge of IRS rules with our taxable income quiz.
By Kate Schubel
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The 'Wait-to-Win' Rule of Retirement Can Add $1,100 to Your Monthly CheckHow trading your savings today will give you a permanent raise tomorrow.
By Donna Fuscaldo
