Spousal benefits are worth up to one-half of what your partner qualifies for at their FRA. You can claim these benefits early, but you lose 25/36th of 1% per month for up to 36 months and five-twelfths of 1% per month thereafter. There's also no delayed retirement credit for applying for spousal benefits after your FRA.

There's a reason that Social Security is called "the third rail of American politics" – as in, touch it and die. Most Americans – especially seniors – are fiercely protective when it comes to their retirement benefits.

The decline of pensions as a source of retirement income leaves newly minted retirees in a precarious position: They are potentially more dependent on Social Security to make ends meet.  New research from an employee benefit nonprofit seems to provide a stark illustration of that trend.

If you’re like most seniors, you’ll rely on  Social Security to provide a good portion of your income once you retire. But, it can be hard to figure out exactly what role Social Security will play in supporting you if you don’t know how much money you’ll get from the benefits program.

Social Security benefits play an important role in retirement income. But for retirees who may not need some or even all of their benefit, it still has value - especially if you plan to invest

Retirement planning involves more than just stopping work; it requires careful financial management to ensure long-term stability. Social Security benefits play a crucial role in retirement income, but understanding the rules governing these benefits is essential to avoid potential reductions and maximize payments.