Money

“I think it’s been easy for some people to spend too much time online, researching about the coronavirus, and I think they’re looking for answers that aren’t there,” said Dr. Dan Allan from Cleveland Clinic. “And I think you have to limit that and it’s okay to be updated on the news and to keep educated, but I think, for some people, it bleeds into an obsession.”  ...

We celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week from May 4 through May 8 and honor all educators who prepare our students for the future. That’s why the Social Security Administration provides eas- to-access, shareable online resources for teachers to engage students and educate them on Social Security. ...

If you want to apply for either your own or your spouse’s benefits, you must be at least 61 years plus 8 months old. Visit www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement to learn more about the process. Explore more about your eligibility by visiting Social Security's Benefits Planner page at www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/divspouse.html for more information. ...

You can apply online for Medicare, even if you're not ready to retire. Fast and easy, applying online can take less than 10 minutes. There are no forms to sign and usually no required documentation, either.  ...

“The projections in this year’s report do not reflect the potential effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Social Security program. Given the uncertainty associated with these impacts, the Trustees believe it is not possible to adjust estimates accurately at this time,” said Andrew Saul, Commissioner of Social Security. ...

Don’t be fooled.  Social Security employees will never threaten you for information or promise a benefit in exchange for personal information or money. So, if you get a call from someone claiming there's a problem with your SS number or account, just hang up. ...

While Social Security offices are closed during the coronavirus crisis, services are still available online and limited, critical services are accessible via phone and email. Also, beware of scammers who may try to trick you into thinking the pandemic is stopping your Social Security payments. This threat is not true. Payments continue, as always. ...

Social Security benefits are part of the retirement plan of almost every American worker. If you’re among the people covered under Social Security, you need to know how much you might receive from us when you begin receiving benefits. These monthly payments may be a vital part of your retirement income. ...