2. Master Your Social Security Benefits
Social Security is a vital safety net for most retirees, but it rarely covers all living costs — so you want to make the most of it.
Create a “my Social Security” account on the official website. It lets you check your estimated benefits, verify your work history, and monitor your account for signs of fraud — all from one secure dashboard.
Timing your claim also matters. The longer you wait to start collecting (up to age 70), the higher your monthly payments will be. But if you need funds earlier, that’s okay — just understand the trade-off.
And don’t overlook spousal and survivor benefits — they can make a big difference, especially for widows, widowers, or couples who’ve spent years supporting each other’s careers.
Social Security is your earned right — and with a little strategy, it can go a long way in strengthening your retirement safety net.
