Social Security

Social Security is not automatic — you have to apply, choose when to start, and understand how the rules affect your payment for the rest of your life. Claiming at 62 gives you a smaller check permanently. Waiting until 70 gives you about 77 percent more per month. Spousal benefits, survivor benefits, and SSI each have their own rules and deadlines. This section covers the practical side: how to apply, what happens if you are denied, how part-time work affects your payment, how to handle an overpayment letter, and what taxes you may owe on your benefits. Each guide is written for someone who has not dealt with Social Security before.