When you lock your Social Security number, a company looking to verify your SSN won't be able to verify your identity, ...

Liz Weston, Certified Financial Planner, is a personal finance columnist for NerdWallet. Questions may be sent to her at 3940 ...

Blank years in your Social Security record could lower your benefits. Learn how spotting them early can help you retire smarter—and boost your future payout.

If you use Excel 40 hours a week (and those are the weeks you are on vacation), welcome to the MrExcel channel. Home to 2,400 free Excel tutorials. Bill "MrExcel" Jelen is the author of 67 books about ...

If you think your Social Security number can’t be stolen, don’t be so sure. Criminals can obtain the number through major data breaches at large companies, hospital systems, small businesses and ...

Of the over 71 million Americans who receive regular Social Security payments, some may have begun receiving smaller checks. However, the payments should arrive on schedule nonetheless. October's ...

A Shelby Middle School teacher was arrested after investigators said she used a Georgia woman’s identity to fraudulently get a job with Cleveland County Schools, officials said. Janet Yevette Martin, ...

Social Security retirees can choose to claim benefits at different ages. When they decide to claim will impact how much in benefits they receive. There are other factors impacting how much they can ...

Every year, Social Security recipients receive a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that increases their monthly checks. Knowing what to expect from this adjustment can help you better plan your ...

The rules for collecting spousal benefits depend, in part, on how long you've been married. You can file for spousal benefits based on an ex-spouse's work record as long as you're not married to ...

Social Security and Supplemental Security Income payments will continue as scheduled during the government shutdown. The 2026 cost-of-living adjustment announcement was delayed but is now scheduled ...

This article adheres to strict editorial standards. Some or all links may be monetized. Social Security is a key income source for millions of retired Americans. Social Security benefits are taxed at ...