Monday, February 22, 2016

ADD A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT TO YOUR RETIREMENT INCOME

Social Security benefit-claiming strategies changed significantly with the new budget bill signed into law by President Obama on November 2, 2015.  Two frequently used strategies, Restricted Application for Spousal Benefits and File and Suspend, are now forbidden; however, dentists who have reached the full retirement age of 66 or older and have been using these strategies are grandfathered in so that no change in how and when benefits are claimed under these two strategies is mandated.


Changes in claiming strategies for dentists who were 62 or older by December 31, 2015 are extensive and complicated.  I highly recommend that every dentist approaching retirement years confer with his/her financial advisor to plan the best method and timing for himself or herself and spouse to claim Social Security benefits.  Remember that benefits received while the dentist is still practicing will be taxed at a higher rate than benefits received after retirement.  Proper consideration of how and when a dentist and spouse tap into Social Security benefits may make a difference of thousands of dollars in retirement income.  Contact your financial advisor today to determine the wisest strategy for claiming Social Security which is, after all, your money simply collected and held by the government, not a welfare program.

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