Social Security survivor benefits are a vital source of financial stability for many women, but how can you ensure you maximize these benefits when planning for retirement?
In this episode of The Simply Retirement Podcast, Eric Blake dives into the intricacies of Social Security survivor benefits and how they impact retirement planning.
Eric focuses on the top questions from clients and more about eligibility, the application process, and strategic considerations around survivor benefits. Tune in to discover how to maximize your benefits and make informed decisions that align with your retirement plans.
Eric discusses:
Eligibility criteria and crucial timelines for Social Security survivor benefits
Impact of remarriage on survivor benefits and critical ages to consider
The importance of timing for filing and how it affects benefit amounts
Integration of Social Security benefits with other income sources for a balanced financial strategy
Are you leaving money on the table with your Social Security benefits?
Join host Eric Blake as he engages with Nolan Russell, a former Social Security Administration employee and author of “The Essentials of Social Security: Insider Insights to Help You Plan with Confidence.” Nolan shares his 25 years of experience, shedding light on the complexities of Social Security and offering practical advice to help you make informed decisions.
Key Highlights:
Understanding Social Security: Discover why Social Security is a crucial yet often undervalued source of retirement income that adjusts for inflation
Challenges in Information Accuracy: Learn about the difficulties in obtaining accurate information from the Social Security Administration and strategies to overcome them
Nolan’s Background: Gain insight into Nolan’s extensive experience with the SSA and his motivation for writing his book to help people better understand their benefits
SSA Staffing Challenges: Understand the impact of staffing issues at the SSA on the availability and accuracy of information
Effective Preparation: Get tips on how to prepare for interactions with Social Security representatives by having a clear vision of your retirement goals and neccessary information ready
Missed Entitlements: Learn about the common issue of missed entitlements and how to ensure you receive all the benefits you’re eligible for
And much more!
Listen in for actionable advice on optimizing your Social Security benefits and navigating the complexities of retirement planning with confidence.
Nolan Russell is a former Social Security employee with more than 25 years of experience. He began his career in a Field Office as a Claims Representative and, later, as a Technical Expert. Then, he worked in a Regional Office as a Regional Program Analyst and Medicare Coordinator, providing program expertise on a regional and national level in the agency. Thereafter, he served as a Teleservice Center Manager, overseeing service on Social Security’s 800 number phone network. His last assignment was managing a small, rural Field Office in Colorado where he was responsible for maintaining service to several mountain communities. Regardless of his position, Nolan has a passion for using his knowledge and experience to help people be successful when working with Social Security.
Nolan has been married to his wonderful bride over 32 years, has four grown children and no grandchildren (yet). He is an avid DIYer, always looking for ways to fix just about anything.
Are you a caregiver (or will be) with concerns about your financial future?
In a compelling episode of The Simply Retirement Podcast, host Eric Blake turns the spotlight on women’s unique retirement planning needs, especially for those who are serving as a caregiver or very likely will be one day. Caregivers often face specific challenges that can drastically alter their financial future. As a seasoned financial professional specializing in retirement planning, Eric explores the specific challenges women encounter when taking on the honorable role of caregiver for parents, family, or close friends. This interview comes from a special Virtual Caregivers Conference hosted by Jeannie Dougherty, certified money coach. The conference was a passion project for Jeannie designed to support both caregivers and their families and was inspired by Jeannie’s 11 years serving as a caregiver for her parents, who both suffered from Alzheimer’s.
Key Insights:
Savvy Social Security Planning: Learn the importance of understanding Social Security, highlighting nuances in eligibility for various benefits
Case Study Insight: Eric presents a poignant case study of a widow facing financial difficulties, emphasizing the need for personalized financial planning
Navigating Early Retirement: Explore the implications of early retirement decisions on Social Security and health insurance
The Emotional Factor: Recognize the significant emotional stress caregivers endure, underlining the crucial role of professional financial advice
Simply Retirement Roadmap: Eric introduces a structured planning process for comprehensive retirement planning
Social Security for Divorcees: Clarify eligibility requirements for ex-spouse benefits and potential Social Security policy changes
Full Retirement Age and Work: Highlight the importance of understanding full retirement age and its implications on benefits
As a determined woman ready to positively impact the world, Jeannie Dougherty continues to help people from all walks of life. She is a coveted counselor, certified money coach, mental fitness coach, and speaker.
She graduated with a master’s degree in counseling from Ottawa University. She graduated from the prestigious Money Coaching Institute as a Certified Money Coach for Individuals, Couples, and Businesses. She’s passionate about her area of expertise, and Jeannie set forth on her quest to do great things.
Moreover, she works with businesses, individuals, and couples to help them find better ways to reach their goals. Over the years, her efforts have earned her a reputation among clients who are ever eager to vouch for her holistic services.
She graduated with a master’s degree in counseling from Ottawa University. She graduated from the prestigious Money Coaching Institute as a Certified Money Coach for Individuals, Couples, and Businesses. She is also a former Federal Retirement Readiness professional. She’s passionate about her area of specialty, and Jeannie set forth on her quest to do great things. Evidently, her perspective on life is simple, and she’s wholly gentle in her approach to the clients. That’s precisely why her customer base continues to grow today.
You see, both of her parents passed away from Alzheimer’s. She spent 11 years of her adult life being a caregiver, dealing with financial and healthcare decisions with her family and their providers.
Her parents’ financial journeys were different, as well as how their diseases manifested. Jeannie understands why lots of folks who become caregivers overnight have their money-handling skills and financial psychology shifts.
