Social Security Benefits
Retirement, spousal, survivor, and COLA topics for Social Security beneficiaries.
97 articles · Page 1 of 5
SSA Compassionate Allowances: Fast-Track Disability Guide
Compassionate Allowances (CAL) is SSA's system for fast-tracking disability claims for conditions severe enough that they clearly meet SSA's disability standard. It currently covers over 300 conditions, mostly aggressive cancers, adult brain disorders, and rare diseases that primarily affect children.
SSDI, SSI, and Medicaid: How They Work Together
SSDI can lead to Medicare, but usually only after a 24-month wait (exceptions: ALS and ESRD). SSI often leads to Medicaid, usually automatically depending on your state. You can qualify for both. And returning to work doesn't automatically end coverage. Plan ahead for the Medicare wait.
Social Security Spousal Benefits: Your Guide to Payments
Thinking about Social Security spousal benefits? Learn how these payments work, who can get them, and how to apply for extra money based on your spouse's record.
Bipolar Disorder SSDI: Do You Qualify for Disability?
Bipolar disorder is evaluated under Blue Book Listing 12.04. You can qualify by meeting that listing, or through SSA's Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment instead.
Where To File for Unemployment Benefits in Every State
Need unemployment benefits? Learn how to file in your state. BenefitKarma provides a directory of state unemployment offices and guidance on making the most of your benefits.
Unemployment Identity Theft: What to Look For
Scammers may use your Social Security number to file fake unemployment claims. If you get a letter about benefits you didn't apply for, act fast.
Why Social Security Fairness Act Payments are Taking Longer than Expected
See if your Social Security benefits are delayed due to the Social Security Fairness Act. Learn what the act means for your payments and how to stay informed.
Stalled Heating Help: Senators Fight to Unlock $400M in Energy Funds
A bipartisan group of 40 senators sent a letter on March 12, 2026 urging HHS to release $400 million in remaining FY2026 LIHEAP energy assistance funds. Here's what low-income families need to know.
How IRMAA Made Your Social Security Increase Look Smaller
Medicare's IRMAA surcharge reduces the net value of Social Security's 2026 COLA for higher earners. See how it works, who pays, and how to appeal.
Parent PLUS Borrowers Face Higher Loan Payments
Parent PLUS borrowers may soon face higher loan payments. Learn what changes are coming and how to protect your budget.
Social Security COLA 2027 Could Be Smaller Than Many Retirees Hoped
Many people count on Social Security. See how the 2027 COLA may be smaller than hoped and what that means for your income.
Why Some Social Security Recipients Could See Smaller Tax Refunds
Some Social Security recipients get smaller tax refunds due to WEP and GPO rules. Learn how these rules may affect your benefits.
How Social Security’s Digital-First Shift Affects You in 2026
Social Security’s Digital-First update is cutting phone wait times, offering 24/7 online access, and reducing backlogs in 2026. Learn what’s changed and what beneficiaries should do now.
Medicaid Work Requirements Are Back — Here's How it Could Affect Older Adults
For millions of Medicaid recipients, even small administrative hurdles can mean losing coverage altogether.
The Ins and Outs of VA Benefits Counting as Taxable Income: What Veterans Should Know
The good news: most VA benefits are not taxable. The less-good news: a few related rules and programs can still affect your overall financial picture if you don’t understand how they fit together.
Legislative Logjam: Key Benefits Bills at Risk of Stalling
Right now, dozens of benefits-focused bills are sitting idle, some for nearly a year, putting important policy updates on pause.
If You Move Overseas, Can You Take Your VA Disability With You?
Veterans can generally keep VA disability compensation while living abroad, but there are rules, paperwork, and practical steps to plan for first.
New Social Security Bill Would Raise Monthly Benefits and Strengthen the Program Long Term
The SAFE Social Security Act would raise average benefits by $150 a month, modernize cost-of-living adjustments, and strengthen Social Security’s long-term funding by lifting the payroll tax cap.
What to Know About the New ‘Warrior Dividend’ Announced by President Trump
The new Warrior Dividend sends $1,776 to eligible service members. Here’s where the money comes from, who qualifies, and what it means.
Social Security Doesn’t Accept Power of Attorney: Why that Matters for Your Benefits
Many people are surprised to learn Social Security ignores power of attorney. Here’s how to make sure your benefits stay protected.