The Cost-of-Living Adjustment and What It Means For You
By Elaine Floyd, CFP ® Each year, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announces the cost-of-living adjustment for the next year. Whether you are retired or not, you should be aware of what the changes mean. In October, the Social Security Administration announced that the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2026 is 2.8%. The increase shows up…
Read MoreSocial Security: The Important Questions
By Elaine Floyd, CFP ® Those “How much do you know about Social Security?” quizzes you see online are fun and interesting, but the bigger questions you should be asking are those that can help you get the most out of the program. Do you know much Social Security you stand to receive over your…
Read MoreSocial Security Snafus—and How to Fix Them
By Elaine Floyd, CFP ® First let it be said that for the number of people served (73 million) and the amount of money paid out annually ($1.5 trillion), the Social Security Administration does an admirable job of keeping everything straight. More than 99% of beneficiaries receive their benefits on time and in the correct amount…
Read MoreScam Alert: Fake Social Security Admin Emails: Your financial well-being depends on fraud prevention and smart planning
As your financial advisor, safeguarding your personal and financial information is paramount. The Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General (SSA OIG) has issued a warning about a new email scam designed to deceive individuals into compromising their sensitive data. Scam Overview: Fake SSA Emails Prompting Statement Downloads Scammers are distributing emails that mimic…
Read MoreDelayed Retirement Credits
By Elaine Floyd, CFP ® | Horsesmouth It is common knowledge by now that if a person applies for their Social Security benefit after full retirement age (FRA), the benefit will include delayed retirement credits (DRCs) of 8% per year up to age 70. But there are some nuances surrounding DRCs—how they are figured, when they are…
Read More6 Savvy Questions About Social Security
By Elaine Floyd, CFP ® | Horsesmouth Social Security is more complicated than most people think. Here are six of the most common questions that come up on Social Security. People are confused about Social Security—both about how the system works, and how these inner workings affect their retirement decisions. These six questions address some…
Read MoreManaging that Important Cash Flow in Retirement: Create a sustainable retirement paycheck that supports your lifestyle
Retirement is a significant transition, and managing cash flow effectively is critical to ensuring financial security. Instead of receiving a paycheck from an employer, retirees must create their own income stream from savings, Social Security, pensions, and investments. By implementing strategic withdrawal plans and tax-efficient strategies, retirees can ensure their savings last throughout their lifetime.…
Read MoreTips to Help Bring More Peace to Your Retirement: Knowing the difference between financial stress and financial problems
Retirement is supposed to be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, but for many, it can also bring its share of financial stress. However, it’s essential to recognize that financial stress and financial problems are not the same. Understanding the difference can help you address the root causes of your anxiety and bring more peace…
Read MoreOne Critical Mistake to Avoid When You Retire
Let’s assume you’re ahead of your peers. You’ve saved, invested, and reduced your debts. Maybe you’ve even met with a financial professional to review your retirement income options. But if you rely solely on traditional strategies, you may still find yourself at a disadvantage in retirement. Preparing for your financial future requires accounting for factors…
Read MoreWhy Personalized Wellness Programs Matter: Building the foundation of financial security to make retirement achievable
Retirement planning was once largely uniform: save diligently in your 401(k), aim for a “magic number,” and hope it lasts. But today’s environment looks very different. Market volatility, student loan burdens, rising housing costs, and uneven wage growth have made investors’ financial lives increasingly complex. For clients in the 35–55 age group, a personalized financial…
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