Retirement, Social Security & Medicare
The age you start benefits permanently sets the size of your monthly check. Here is how the reductions and credits are calculated, and the questions worth answering before you file.
By Margaret Ellison
Premiums are the easiest number to see. Deductibles, drug formularies and provider networks often matter more.
By Priya Anand
An annual limit on drug spending took effect in 2025. For people on costly medications, it changes which plan is cheapest.
By Priya Anand
By Margaret Ellison
By Margaret Ellison
Claiming decisions, benefit calculations, spousal and survivor rules, and the annual cost-of-living adjustment.
By Priya Anand
Prescription prices, preventive care, long-term care and the out-of-pocket costs Medicare leaves behind.
By David Reyes
Turning savings into a paycheck: withdrawal order, annuities, pensions and making a portfolio last.
By Thomas Vance
Property tax relief, downsizing, home equity and the costs of staying in place as you age.
