Social Security & Retirement Decisions

Are you ready for retirement? One of the most important decisions you must make before retiring is when to claim Social Security benefits. 

Many retirees apply for Social Security before reaching full retirement age; in doing so, they can permanently reduce the benefits that they can receive over a lifetime. There are many factors to consider when making this important decision. If you are single, married, divorced, or widowed this session will help you make that personal decision.

This webinar will provide details on the retirement program and filing strategy options for spouses, divorced spouses and widow(ers) benefits. 

We will talk about:

• Key factors to consider when determining the right time for you to file; 
• How you can work and collect benefits, and
• How easy it is to file an application.

We will also conduct an overview of the Medicare program. 

• When should you file for Medicare? 
• Do you need Medicare if you are working and covered under your employer health plan? 
• What forms do you need if you work and enroll after age 65? These and many other questions will be answered in this session.  

You’ll even have the opportunity to ask your questions.

We highly encourage you to create a my Social Security account prior to the session. With an account, you can verify your earnings and print a benefit statement. You can open an account at ssa.gov/myaccount.  This is a one-stop center where you can manage and maintain your personal Social Security business. 

The presenter is Brian Rudolph, a representative of the Social Security Administration in the Twin Cities. Brian has over 23 years of experience, most recently 8 years in conducting public outreach and education seminars. Take the first step in planning for your financial future by taking advantage of this interactive, free webinar provided by an experienced Social Security employee. 

This is the first of three lunch-and-learn webinars in AARP Minnesota’s Planning for Your Retirement virtual series. Make the most of your midday as you prepare for crucial decision-making about Social Security, Medicare, and estate planning. Sign up for our other sessions, Medicare 101 with Minnesota Aging Pathways and Wills vs. Trusts: Choosing the Best Path for You at aarp.org/MNevents.