A pile of Social Security cards.

5 More Facts You Might Not Know About Social Security

By: Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist What kind of questions do you and your friends ask about Social Security? When do my benefits arrive? What are Social Security work credits, and do they have anything to do with the way my benefits are figured? Will I be automatically enrolled in Medicare? Read on to find the answers to these questions. Social Security benefits … Continue reading 5 More Facts You Might Not Know About Social Security

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Social Security Q&A Part 8

By Vonda Vantil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: How can I become a representative payee? Answer: If you know someone who receives Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and who needs assistance managing their payments, contact your local Social Security office about becoming their representative payee. Go to http://www.socialsecurity.gov/payee for more information. Question: If I retire at age 62, will I be eligible … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 8

Caregiver’s Guide to Driving Issues

By Christine Steinmetz, J.D., Hotline Attorney The Legal Hotline for Michigan Seniors receives phone calls each week from loved ones and caregivers asking what he or she can do when there are concerns about a loved one’s driving. In this post, I will discuss issues that arise when a caregiver becomes aware of potential problems for an older driver, and the resources that are available … Continue reading Caregiver’s Guide to Driving Issues

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Social Security Q&A Part 7

By Vonda Vantil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: I have been getting Social Security disability benefits for many years. I’m about to hit my full retirement age. What will happen to my disability benefits? Answer: When you reach “full retirement age” we will switch you from disability to retirement benefits. But you won’t even notice the change because your benefit amount will stay the … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 7

The Importance of Older Adults Quitting Smoking

By Shirley Brown, Economic Security Team Member  Even though you may have smoked for years and had no difficulties that you know of, it would benefit you greatly to quit. It will be difficult but not impossible. You may need help and may have to try several different approaches to find the one that will work best for you. If you are not successful at your first attempt, do not give up. If you … Continue reading The Importance of Older Adults Quitting Smoking

(Mid-America Pension Rights Project): State hones in on ‘underfunded’ pension and health care plans, including 7 in mid-Michigan

Via Lansing State Journal By Beth LeBlanc March 7, 2018 Seven Lansing-area public employee retirement plans have come under scrutiny from the state for their unfunded liabilities. The Michigan Department of Treasury contacted pension plan administrators last week to inform them that reports they submitted to the state in January had triggered a preliminary review of the policies’ “underfunded status.” Read the full article. Continue reading (Mid-America Pension Rights Project): State hones in on ‘underfunded’ pension and health care plans, including 7 in mid-Michigan

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Social Security Q&A Part 4

By Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: I’m planning to retire next year. I served in the Navy back in the 1960s and need to make sure I get credit for my military service. What do I need to do? Answer: You don’t need to do anything to apply for the special credit for your military service — it is added automatically. For service … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 4

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Social Security Q&A Part 3

By Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: Can I refuse to give my Social Security number to a private business? Answer: Yes, you can refuse to disclose your Social Security number, and you should be careful about giving out your number. But, be aware, the person requesting your number can refuse services if you don’t give it. Businesses, banks, schools, private agencies, etc., are … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 3

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Social Security Q&A Part 2

By Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: My brother had an accident at work last year and is now receiving Social Security disability benefits. His wife and son also receive benefits. Before his accident, he helped support another daughter by a woman he never married. Is the second child entitled to benefits? Answer: The child may qualify for Social Security benefits even though your … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 2

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Social Security Q&A Part 1

By Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: I have medical coverage through my employer. Do I have to take Medicare Part B? Answer: You are not required to take Medicare Part B if you are covered by a group healthcare plan based on either your employment or the employment of a spouse. When your coverage ends, you may contact the Social Security Administration to … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 1