Saturday, January 18, 2025
Here’s a detailed explanation and example of how Social Security survivor benefits are calculated and what factors determine the benefit amount: 1. Key Factors in Survivor Benefit Calculations The deceased’s earnings history: Social Security survivor benefits are based on the earnings record of the deceased. The survivor’s age: The age […]
In the United States, over 2 million grandchildren are being raised by grandparents, and some of these children may qualify for Social Security survivor benefits under specific circumstances when the grandparent(s) pass away. Here’s an overview of the eligibility and key considerations: 1. Can grandchildren receive survivor benefits? Yes, grandchildren […]
A friend of mine once said that he hoped to spend the last years of his life in a nursing home or a senior care center. He shared with me stories from other friends who told him that living in a nursing home was comfortable—there were no worries about meals […]
Alabama No state minimum wage law. Employers subject to the Fair Labor Standards Act must pay the current Federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Alaska Basic Minimum Rate (per hour): $11.91 Premium Pay After Designated Hours 1 : Daily – 8, Weekly – 40 Under a voluntary flexible work hour plan approved […]
The IRS has announced several key updates for 2025 affecting various retirement accounts, health savings plans, Social Security, and tax provisions. Here’s a summary of the changes: Retirement Account Contribution Limits: 401(k), 403(b), and Governmental 457 Plans: The contribution limit increases to $23,500, up from $23,000 in 2024. Catch-Up Contributions […]
Here are some practical ways to optimize sleep by making changes to diet, environment, bedtime routines, and even sleeping positions: 1. Foods and Drinks to Support Sleep Eat: Tryptophan-Rich Foods: Turkey, chicken, bananas, nuts, seeds, and dairy help produce melatonin and serotonin, which support relaxation. Magnesium-Rich Foods: Almonds, spinach, and […]
A reverse mortgage is a loan that allows homeowners aged 62 or older to borrow against the equity in their home without having to make monthly payments. Instead, the loan is repaid when the borrower sells the home, moves out permanently, or passes away. The most common type of reverse […]
Caring for an aging adult who wishes to age in place, meaning remaining in their home as they grow older, involves a comprehensive approach that includes adapting the living environment, ensuring proper healthcare, and providing daily living assistance as needed. Here are the recommended steps, tools, safety measures, and resources: […]
Retiring at Full Retirement Age (FRA) rather than waiting until 70 can be influenced by several factors beyond financial planning. Here are some key considerations: Health and Well-being Health Status: As people age, health concerns can become more prominent. Retiring at FRA allows individuals to focus on their health and […]
After attending the farewell Mass, I couldn’t stop thinking about what had happened, what was happening, and what the future might hold for the two children involved. In my view, they are victims of a broken marriage and their parents’ failure to fulfill their responsibilities in raising them. The causes […]