social security, 2015

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Think you’re getting old, Social Security turns 80 By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

Eighty years ago, on August 14, 1935, President Franklin

D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act into law.

As the face of America has evolved over the course of the last eight decades, so has the Social Security Administration. Social Security has expanded its safety net to provide benefits for retirees, people with disabilities, spouses and children of deceased workers. The agency has evolved to serve the needs of a changing America. Now, we are celebrating this historic anniversary by looking at both our successful past, and the path to an even brighter future.

Social Security is there for you during all stages of life. Right from the beginning, we

issue a unique Social Security number to most newborns when an application is taken at the hospital. This allows us to track your income over your working

career and accurately calculate your retirement benefit. We provide disability benefits

to injured and chronically ill workers and their families. We provide survivors benefits to widows, widowers, and the minors of deceased workers. We also provide Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to those with low income and resources, and Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs for people who qualify.

Here in Idaho, Social Security plays a major part in supporting our communities and our economy. Over 300,000 people receive monthly payments. Most are retired workers but about 44,000 are disabled workers and 20,000 surviving spouses. Over 80 percent of the recipients also receive Medicare benefits. In addition, Social Security assists over 30,000 SSI recipients. The direct payments to our Social Security beneficiaries is close to 365 million dollars per month or about 4.85 billion dollars per year and SSI recipients receive over 196 million dollars a year.

These are payments that go on year after year providing support and helping meet basic needs.

In our decades of experience, Social Security has evolved to meet the fast-paced demands of the digital world. Creating an online my Social Security account, allows you to view your Social Security Statement, verify the accuracy of your earnings record, and get estimates of your future

monthly benefit. Once you begin receiving Social Security benefits, you can use your online account to manage your record. You can change your address and phone number, check your benefit information, update your electronic payment method or obtain an instant benefit verification letter or replacement Medicare card. If you haven’t already, you can easily sign up for a my Social Security account at socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.

Our safe and secure online services allow you to apply for retirement, spouses, Medicare, and disability benefits from the comfort of your home. You can quickly complete an online retirement application at socialsecurity.gov/applyonline.

We look to the next 80 years with a renewed commitment to proudly serve Social Security customers throughout their lifetime, when and where they need us. To learn more about the history of Social Security go to socialsecurity.gov/history.


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spend too much of your life worrying about your teeth? Denture wearers have many options. Dr. Cody Haas of Fairview Dental Clinic explains.

No one wants to think about losing teeth or the D word: dentures. But more than 90 percent of Americans who suffer from complete tooth loss turn to dentures, according to the American College of Prosthodontists.

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Your spouse may be covered by social security By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

If you have a spouse who does not earn an income or

who earns less than you do, your spouse (including a same-sex spouse) may be entitled to Social Security spouse’s benefits based on your record.

Social Security can be an important financial asset for married couples when the time comes to apply for retirement benefits. In many cases, one spouse may have earned significantly more than the other, or may have worked longer. Or it could be that one spouse stayed home to do the work of raising the children, caring for elderly family members, or managing the household while the other focused on a career.

Whatever your situation is, Social Security will look at all possibilities to ensure both spouses receive the maximum Social Security benefits possible, whether based on each spouse’s earnings record or the higher wage-earner’s record.

Your spouse can apply for

benefits the same way that you apply for benefits on your own record. He or she can apply for reduced benefits as early as age 62, or for 100 percent of the spousal retirement benefit at your spouse’s “full retirement age.” Not sure what the full retirement age is? To learn your and your spouse’s full retirement ages, based on birth year, visit socialsecurity.gov/pubs/ageincrease.htm.

The benefit amount your spouse can receive at full retirement age can be as much as one half of your full benefit. If your spouse chooses to file for benefits early, age 62 for example, the benefit may be as little as a third of your full benefit amount. Note that benefits paid to your spouse do not decrease your benefit amount.

If you have already reached full retirement age, you can apply for retirement benefits and request to have the payments suspended until as late as age 70. This would let you earn delayed retirement credits that

will mean higher payments later, but still would allow your spouse to receive a spouse’s benefit on your record.

People can also apply for spouse’s benefits based on the earnings record of an ex-spouse if married for at least 10 years. Spouses can consider a number of options and variables. We make it easier to navigate them. A good place to start is our benefits planner at www.socialsecurity.gov/planners. Look under the “Benefits as a Spouse” section. Note the rules for Survivor benefits are different and you can find out about those benefits by reviewing our

webpage.

If you are ready to apply for benefits, the fastest, easiest, and most convenient way is to apply online! You can do so at socialsecurity.gov/applyonline and complete your application in as little as 15 minutes.

Due to a Supreme Court decision, we now are able to pay benefits to some same-sex couples. We encourage people who think they may be eligible to apply now. Learn more at socialsecurity.gov/same-sexcouples.

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Social Security provides support with survivor benefits By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

In the unfortunate event of a family member’s death,

we want you to know that Social Security is here to help. In addition to the emotional difficulty family members’ experience, there is often a financial burden as well, especially if the family’s main wage earner dies. In such cases, Social Security survivor benefits will help. It is there to help support the family in times of need.

Today, in the state of Washington, there are many who depend on the Social Security benefits provided by a loved one who has passed. Over

110,000 surviving spouses and children receive monthly benefit payments. Those payments add up to over one and a half billion dollars per year.

Did you know that nearly every child in America could get Social Security survivors benefits if a working parent dies? In addition, Social Security pays more benefits to children than any other federal program. Today, nearly two millions children receive benefits off a deceased parents record each month.

Although many people think Social Security is just a retirement program, you should know that Social Security also

provides survivors insurance benefits for workers and their families. If you’re like most people, the value of the survivors insurance you have under Social Security is probably more than the value of any individual life insurance you may own. Moreover, you don’t even need to sign up for a separate policy; by working and paying Social Security tax, you are most likely already insured without even knowing it.

Family members who may be able to receive survivors benefits based on your work record include a widow or widower, unmarried children up to age

19 and still in high school, and under certain circumstances, stepchildren, grandchildren, step grandchildren, and adopted children.

Another special program Social Security uses to support the family is dependent parent benefits. If your child dies and you are dependent on him or her for more than one half of your support, you can collect a Social Security benefit from the adult child’s record. Social Security pays monthly benefits to parents on the record of a deceased worker under the following conditions:

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The parent must be at least 62 years old and not have remarried since the worker’s death;

The parent cannot be entitled to his/her own, higher Social Security benefi t;

The parent must be able to show that he/she was receiving one-half of his/her fi nancial support from the worker at the time of death;

The proof of support must be submitted within two years of the worker’s death.

If you’d like to learn more about survivor benefi ts, and how to apply, you should read our

publication, Survivors Benefi ts, available at socialsecurity.gov/pubs.

You can fi nd additional useful information, such as our survivors’ planner and information about how to apply for survivors benefi ts, at socialsecurity.gov/pgm/survivors.htm.

Finally, some time to travel Newspaper Toolbox

Your retirement is fast approaching and with it the opportunity to travel — at last! What a great project, especially as travelling during your retirement years has lots of advantages. Be careful, however, to stay within your limits, as well as your budget. After all, you want to be able to make the most of this opportunity for as long as possible.

Leave when you want

Now you can go away whenever you want, which allows you to take advantage of last minute deals or take part in events that you’ve always dreamed of, such as the Rio carnival or Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Or maybe you’ve always wanted to see the Monaco Grand Prix or tennis at Wimbledon.

Take your time

Since there’s no limit to the duration of your vacations now, you can take the time to do everything you want. Travelling no longer has to be an exhausting marathon, a whirlwind of visits where you cram in as much as possible in a short amount of time.

Travel your way

Not only do you have time to travel, you also have time to plan your own trip. You can now put together the trip of your dreams, a journey that will be tailor-made to meet your best expectations.

Whatever your destination, you’ll now have the time to admire the world’s great monuments, pedal along the most beautiful bike paths, and see all the new and ancient wonders.


Want to know more about your future benefits now – open a “My Social Security Account” By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

The my Social Security account is a personalized

online account that people can use beginning in their working years and continuing throughout the time they start receiving Social Security benefits.

If you have not started benefits you can – get a personalized Online Social Security Statement. The online Statement provides eligible workers with secure and convenient access to their Social Security earnings and benefit information, and estimates of

future benefits they can use to plan for their retirement. You can see how much money you made year by year. In addition, the portal includes links to information about other online services, Social Security Card, Retirement, Disability, Supplemental Security Income, and Medicare.

If you are already receiving benefits you can - access your benefit verification letter, payment history, and earnings record instantly using your

online account. Social Security beneficiaries also can change their address, direct deposit information and request replacement Medicare card. In the future additional services will be added.

People age 18 and older can sign up for an account and after completing the secure verification process, create a My Social Security account with a unique user name

and password to access their information.

For more information, please go to socialsecurity.gov/myaccount/

Social Security delivers the most popular baby names in Idaho for 2014

By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

What are the top baby names for Idaho? Emma

and Liam topped the list.

The top five boys and girls names for 2014 in Idaho were:

In Idaho, 116 boys named Liam and 117 girls named Emma were born in 2014.

How does Idaho compare to the rest of the country? Check

out Social Security’s website -- socialsecurity.gov-- to see the top baby names for 2014. Nationally, Noah and Emma are number one.

Social Security has a new addition this year, Social Security Matters. The agency’s newborn interactive blog located at blog.socialsecurity.gov. This is where the public can engage in conversations with the agency about what matters most. The blog encourages discussion and offers important solutions. Just like being a new parent, making benefit decisions can be overwhelming. The blog is the

latest in a long line of tools Social Security offers to help educate the public about their benefits and how to access agency services.

In addition to each state’s top baby names, Social Security’s website has a list of the 1,000 most popular boys’ and girls’ names for 2014 and offers lists of baby names for each year since 1880.

To read about this year’s winner and to see how pop culture affects baby names, go to socialsecurity.gov/news/press/releases.html#!/post/5-2015-1.

Boys: Girls: 1) Liam 1) Emma 2) William 2) Olivia 3) Mason 3) Charlotte 4) Oliver 4) Abigail 5) Samuel 5) Harper

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8 tips to help you live longer Newspaper Toolbox

Here are some tips to help you stay young at heart

and healthy in body.

1. Stay active. Get moving! To stay fit, do at least 150 minutes of moderate- to high-intensity physical activity per week and adopt an active lifestyle. For example, use the stairs instead of the elevator and walk or bike to get where you’re going whenever possible.

2. Watch your diet. A healthy, balanced diet improves your general well-being and is essential for controlling your weight, cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Follow the Canada Food Guide’s

recommendations; eat less sugar and be moderate in your consumption of alcohol.

3. See your doctor on a regular basis. An ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure, and that’s why your doctor is your best ally. Have regular checkups and go for recommended screening tests. An early diagnosis can make all the difference in the event of illness.

4. Take care of yourself. Listen to your body, and see your dentist and optometrist regularly. Exercise your brain to keep your memory active, and splurge once in a while on beauty

treatments or activities that boost your morale.

5. Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep increases irritability and reduces concentration. It also increases the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. For most people a good night’s rest involves at least eight

hours of sleep.

6. Relax. Learn to manage your stress. Intense stress can cause insomnia and even skin rashes. It can also aggravate conditions such as high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes. Take time for yourself and relax. Do yoga, learn to breathe properly, get a massage or read. In other words,

slow down and smell the roses.

7. Quit smoking. Smoking increases the risk of lung cancer, heart disease and stroke. The sooner you quit, the sooner your body can recover and benefit from reduced chances of a premature death.

8. Cultivate your social life. Having a full social and emotional life helps you live longer. Surround yourself with people you love, and spend time with your family. Volunteer, join a club or sports team and consider adopting a pet. Avoid isolating yourself, because doing so is harmful to your health.

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When buying a cemetery headstone, memorial or monument for a loved one, make sure you choose the right company. Be sure you feel comfortable with the person you’re dealing with. Purchasing a

memorial is a major investment, but more importantly, it is the final gift you will give to someone.

Customer service is a critical part of the purchase process. Most people are in the midst of the grieving process during the time of purchase.

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accessible for future generations. As amazing as it is to be able to scan this code right there in the cemetery, this is not the only way to share the history of your loved one. You can supply the webpage address to anyone in the world so they too can enjoy the wonderful memories you have created for your friends and family. The QR Code itself is 100% guaranteed; if anything happens to it, we will replace it for free. Once purchased, you own the website for life.

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Medicare open enrollment begins October 15 – start reviewing your plan By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

With more benefits, better choices and

lower costs, the Social Security Administration is encouraging people with Medicare and their families to start reviewing drug and health plan coverage options for 2016. The Medicare Open Enrollment Period starts October 15 and will end December 7. This will give seniors and people with disabilities more time to compare and find the best plan that meets their unique needs.

Using Medicare’s Plan Finder – available at www.medicare.

gov/find-a-plan – can help you find the best plan in your area. You can also see if your current plan is highly rated or may have some issues. You have the option to complete a general or personalized plan search. A personalized search may provide you with more accurate cost estimates and coverage information.

If you need help finding the right plan, you can contact the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA). SHIBA is part of the Washington

State Insurance Commissioner’s consumer protection services designed to help answer your health care questions. You can get free, unbiased assistance with Medicare health care choices using their website at insurance.wa.gov/shiba/index or call 800-562-6900.

Each year there are changes to Medicare program and it is important to keep up and understand how the changes can benefit or cost you more money. Visit medicare.gov or socialsecurity.gov. for more info.

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Medicare - half a century of helping protect our people By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

On July 30, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed

Medicare into law with these words: “No longer will older Americans be denied the healing miracle of modern medicine. No longer will illness crush and destroy the savings that they have so carefully put away over a lifetime.” When Medicare first started, workers went door to door trying to get seniors to sign up. Medicare was not the cornerstone then that it is today and people did not know whether it was going to work for the long haul.

Now, half a century later, Medicare remains one of the

most popular government programs in the nation. It has been changing the lives of Americans by providing the peace of mind that comes with health care that is there when you need it. Medicare saves lives, helps people live longer, and keeps families strong.

For 50 years, the Medicare program has provided essential health care services for millions of people who are age 65 or older or disabled. Without Medicare, many people would not be able to pay for hospital care, doctor’s visits, medical tests, preventive services, or prescription drugs.

Your Medicare card is the

most important piece of identification you own as a Medicare beneficiary since medical providers will request it when you seek their services. If you need to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Medicare card, you can do it online with a my Social Security account at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount. Requesting a replacement card through my Social Security is safe, convenient, and easy. Going online saves you a trip to your local Social Security office or unproductive time on the phone.

Fifty years ago, Medicare didn’t have as many options as it does today. As the largest public health program in the United States, Medicare includes four parts to keep you covered:

Part A is insurance that covers inpatient hospital stays, outpatient care in nursing facilities, hospice, and home health care.

Part B includes medical insurance for doctor’s services, medical supplies, outpatient care, and preventive services.

Part C is a Medicare advantage plan that allows you to choose your health care coverage through a provider organization. You must have Part A and Part B to enroll in Part C. This plan usually includes Medicare prescription drug coverage and may include extra benefits

and services at an additional cost.

Part D is prescription drug coverage. There is a separate monthly premium for this plan; however, people with low resources and income may qualify for the Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs from Social Security. Visit socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp to see if you qualify.

A recent survey to Medicare beneficiaries asked: Why do you love Medicare? One person stated, “It gives peace of mind not only for seniors, but for veterans and disabled as well.” Another satisfied recipient replied, “I most likely wouldn’t be alive today without Medicare.” These are just two of the millions who endorse Medicare’s half-century strong success story.

As Medicare celebrates 50 years, Social Security commemorates 80 years. Learn more about Social Security’s 80th anniversary at socialsecurity.gov/80thanniversary.


Are your social security benefits taxable? By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

If you have recently begun receiving Social Security

benefits or plan to apply in the near future, you may be wondering: are Social Security benefits taxable?

The short answer is: sometimes.

Some people have to pay Federal income taxes on their Social Security benefits. This usually happens only if you have other substantial income (such as wages, self-employment, interest, dividends and other taxable income that must be reported on your tax return) in addition to your Social Security benefits.

There is never a case when a person pays tax on more than 85 percent of his or her Social Security benefits, based on Internal Revenue Service (IRS) rules. Now, let’s get down to the numbers.

If you file a federal tax return as an individual and your income is between $25,000 and $34,000, you may have to pay income tax on up to 50 percent of your benefits. If your income is more than $34,000, then up to 85 percent of your benefits may be taxable.

If you are married and you file a joint return, and your combined income is between $32,000 and

$44,000, you may have to pay income tax on up to 50 percent of your benefits. If your combined income is more than $44,000, then up to 85 percent of your benefits may be taxable.

If you think you are going to pay income taxes on your Social Security Benefits, you can request that part of your monthly payment be withheld by calling our toll free number 800-772-1213.

In January, you will receive a Social Security Benefit Statement (SSA-1099) showing the amount of the benefits you received last year. You can use this statement, when completing your federal

income tax return to find out whether some of your benefits are subject to federal income tax. If you didn’t receive it, you can request one at socialsecurity.gov/1099.

Are your Social Security benefits taxable? Maybe. To learn more, read page 14 of our booklet, Retirement Benefits, available at socialsecurity.gov/pubs or visit irs.gov/ to obtain more detailed information on the subject.

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Find security with a solid retirement plan By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

Achieving financial independence is key to

enjoying a satisfying retirement. Social Security has many tools to help you plan for your future. Today in Washington State there are over 1.3 million people receiving Social Security payments. We expect that number only to climb fast over the next 15 years. You need to be ready.

Prepare for a secure, comfortable retirement by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount. Once there, open a secure my Social Security account and assess your financial needs. You’ll get immediate

access to your personal Social Security Statement, your earnings record, and an estimate of your retirement benefits at age 62, at your full retirement age, and at age 70. You can also ensure your earnings are correct, since your future benefits are based on your earnings record.

You can begin getting Social Security retirement benefits as early as 62. However, we will reduce your benefits by as much as 30 percent below what you would get if you waited to retire until your full retirement age. If you wait until your full retirement age (66 for most people and age 67 for people

born after 1960), you will get your full benefit. For every month you file before your full retirement age your payment is reduced by approximately one-half of one percent. On the other side of full retirement age for every month you wait to file past that date, your benefits are increased by two-thirds of one percent. You can get more than 100% of your benefits by waiting. We increase your benefit because you earn “delayed retirement credits.” If you wait until age 70 to start your benefits (beyond age 70 you do not earn extra credits) you will maximize your monthly payments.

Choosing when to retire is an important decision. At our Retirement Estimator, which you can access at socialsecurity.gov/estimator, you can get an estimate of your future benefit amount. You can use “what if” scenarios to see how your benefit amounts will change with different retirement dates and future earnings estimates. The key to understanding when to file for benefits is understanding how your benefits change for each

month you file early or for each month you wait beyond you full retirement age.

Also, visit myra.gov to check out myRA, a new retirement savings option from the Department of the Treasury for the millions of Americans who face barriers to saving for retirement. myRA is a simple, secure, and affordable way to help you take control of your future.

Once you are ready to retire, apply at socialsecurity.gov/retire. Our online retirement application is the easiest and fastest way to apply for Social Security retirement benefits. It can take you as little as 15 minutes to complete. There are no forms to sign, and usually no documentation is required. Additionally, you can apply online from the convenience of your home.

With all of these resources in place, you too can prepare to reap the joys of a financially secure retirement. Learn more at socialsecurity.gov.

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Know which financial papers to toss and which to keep MetroCreative

Many statements and financial documents

can be thrown out once their accuracy has been confirmed.

Many homeowners recognize that they have quite a number of things around the house that serve no practical purpose. Paperwork can accumulate seemingly overnight. Oftentimes, uncertainty about which financial documents to keep and which to discard causes homeowners to keep everything, which can lead to unnecessary clutter.

Many people keep too much information for too long. As you begin your organizing detail, keep these pointers in mind.

What to Keep

Purchase receipts, credit card statements and any other paperwork pertinent for filing taxes should be kept for a full year until taxes are filed.

Experts disagree as to what is the best period of time for keeping documents related to taxes after your return has been filed. Many people can safely shred tax documents within three years of filing. This is the end of the normal audit period for “good-faith” errors. If you do not have any reason to believe information on the returns is fraudulent, you can probably safely toss out these older returns once the three years is up. If you are self-employed or if you want to be extra cautious, you can save tax returns for

seven years.

You should keep certain important documents in a fire-resistant safe in the home rather than in a regular filing cabinet. These include warranty documents, insurance policies, copies of will and trust documents, medical history forms, copies of diplomas and school transcripts and an inventory of home items. Also keep important documents that pertain to your home purchase or rental agreement. These include leases, home title, home survey, and mortgage documents.

Many people opt to keep other essential items that need a bit more protection in a safety deposit box or a burglar-proof safe at home. Items inside should include a list of bank account and credit card account numbers, copies of identification cards, passports, social security cards, stock and bond certificates, IRA contribution records, certificates of deposit, and military

documents, as well as divorce, marriage, adoption or any other important certificates.

What to Toss

Most experts agree, including sources from Good Housekeeping, Consumer Reports and Kiplinger’s, that many receipts can be discarded shortly after purchase. ATM receipts can be thrown away as soon as they are reconciled against your bank statement. Bank and credit

card statements can be shredded after they have been confirmed unless you need them for any specific tax-filing reasons.

After a year, it is generally safe to do a thorough clean-out of pay stubs, especially after you have received your tax-filing forms and have submitted tax information.

Many people file away paid bills and keep them far longer than necessary. Again, once they have been checked for accuracy, they can generally be thrown out. If you want to err on the side of caution, then keep these paid bills for 2 to 3 months and then toss them out.

Old insurance policies also can be thrown out when they are replaced by newer ones. However, keep the original statement showing the purchase date and price of the policy.

Any warranties or instructions for household items that have been sold or donated, then these can be thrown out as well.

Determining which financial paperwork should be saved and what is probably safe to get rid of just takes a little organizing and sorting. After you have culled through the documents, you have just freed up valuable space in your home.

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How to write your own last will and testament MetroCreative

Few people, young or old, look forward to writing a will. A will is not an easy subject to broach, but it is important to have documents in place to ease the burden for family members.

When a person dies without a will, his or her assets might not go where he or she intended. Handwritten wills are called holographic wills and may not be recognized unless written during an emergency situation, such as a fatal illness.

Laws regarding wills vary based on where you live. Therefore, learn the legalities before preparing a will so you will have a document that holds up in a

court of law and can be executed to your desires. Here is some of the basic information that may be included in your will.

· Include your name, address, date of birth, and social security numbers if they will better help identify you should there be confusion.

· State that you are of sound mind when writing this will and of contractual capacity.

· Write a statement indicating that this will revokes all other wills that may have been executed before.

· List the names and addresses of all of your children. If the

children are minors, at this point you can also specify your wishes with regards to their guardianship.

· Appoint an executor or executrix to carry out the affairs of your estate and instructions specified in the will. This person typically must be over 18.

· Indicate how you want the executor to handle your financial affairs, including paying taxes, funeral costs, final expenses, etc. At this point you also may want to spell out where you would like to be buried and any specific requests with regard to the funeral, viewing, and any other funeral-related details.

· List any gifts you would like to be distributed to certain people. This may be a doll collection to a daughter, coins to a son, china to an aunt, etc.

· Specify the percentages of your assets to be distributed should the listed beneficiaries survive you. · Include a residuary clause that states how to distribute any remaining assets.

· State whether you want the executor to be reimbursed for any expenses that result from executing the will.

· Indicate that you would like the executor to post bond as a form of insurance so that the executor can’t run off with the money for himself.

· Name an alternative executor should the first pass away before executing the will or if he or she is unable to serve upon your death.

· Sign the will in front of two or three witnesses (check what is required where you live) and a notary public. The witnesses cannot be anyone named in the will.

This article is intended as general information about what is typically covered in a standard will. It should not be taken as legal advice. Prior to implementing any of these tips, consult with an attorney certified in estate planning.

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Can’t work due to disability? Maybe Social Security can help By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

Disability is something most people don’t like to discuss.

But if you are not able to work because you have a disabling condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death, then it’s a subject you may not be able to avoid.

In Idaho there are over 43,000 workers receiving disability benefits under the Social Security program. Under SSA’s needs based Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program there is an additional 28,000 disabled people receiving assistance.

You can apply for disability benefits even if you are still working. Generally, your wages would need to be below $1,090 or $1,820 for a blind individual, however, there are some exceptions.

You should apply for disability benefits as soon as you become disabled. It may take you months to obtain all your medical records and for us to process your application.

Information we need include:

medical records or evidence that you have; we can make copies of your records and return your originals;

the names, addresses, and phone numbers for any doctors, hospitals, medical facilities, treatment centers, or providers that may have information related to your disabling condition; and

the names, addresses, and phone numbers of your recent employers and the dates you worked for each employer.

If you don’t have all of the information handy, you should still apply for benefits right away. Social Security can assist you in getting the necessary documents, including obtaining your medical records. Just keep in mind that if you do have the information we need, it will probably speed up the time it takes to make a decision.

The fastest and most convenient way to apply for disability is online

•

•

•

at socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability. You can save your application as you go, so you can take a break at any time.

If your claim is denied, you can file your appeal online as well. More than 90,000 people use our online appeals application each month. We’ve certainly come a long way since introducing the online appeal option in September 2007. Throughout the nation, applicants, their representatives, third parties, groups, and organizations use the online appeal process to request review of disability decisions.

If you prefer, you may call our

toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, to make an appointment to apply at your local Social Security office or to set up an appointment for someone to take your application over the phone.

If you are approved for disability benefits, that doesn’t mean you’ll never be able to work again. In fact, Social Security has special rules called “work incentives” that allow you to test your ability to work.

Learn more about disability benefits and take advantage of the helpful Disability Starter Kit at socialsecurity.gov/disability/disability_starter_kits.htm.

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Report for duty by reporting fraud By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

In July, with American flags flying, we celebrate

our nation’s birthday and the freedoms and protections we hold dear. Although love for your country can take many forms, Social Security takes preventing and combatting fraud as seriously as we take our other vital missions.

Social Security has a zero-tolerance policy for fraud. In tandem with local law enforcement, we pursue criminals who cheat the system by collecting benefits that they’re not owed. Fraud might take the form of someone claiming to be disabled when, in reality, they

continue to work. That is why rely on you — the American public — to report fraud when you see it. Remember, they are not stealing from the Government, they are stealing from YOU.

While we can’t prevent every instance of fraud any more than the most effective law enforcement agency can prevent all crime, we aggressively investigate and pursue prosecution of those who try to cheat and steal from the system. Our message to those who would defraud Social Security is clear: We will find you; we will prosecute you; we will seek the maximum punishment allowable

under the law; and we will fight to restore the money you’ve stolen from the American people.

We impose stiff penalties to discourage people from committing fraud. We monitor cases closely, and we have sophisticated tools to help us predict where and when fraud may occur so we can catch it early — often even before it happens.

Social Security employs innovative weapons in the fight against fraud. Our Office of Anti-Fraud Programs (OAFP) is the newest member of Social Security’s anti-fraud team. Established in November 2014, the mission of OAFP is to coordinate all the agency’s efforts to efficiently and effectively detect, deter, and mitigate fraud, waste, and abuse of our programs.

OAFP works closely with our Office of the Inspector

General to ensure that there are consequences for those who commit fraud — even if the act isn’t prosecuted.

Social Security takes fraud seriously, and so should you. In the same way that you might keep a keen eye out for suspicious activity that might harm our nation, we encourage you to keep an eye out for potential Social Security fraud. Some of our most vulnerable citizens — the elderly, disabled children and war veterans, as well as the chronically ill — are counting on you. If you suspect someone is committing Social Security fraud, report it online at oig.ssa.gov/report or call the Social Security Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271.

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Aim for a retirement with no regrets Newspaper Toolbox

Try asking a few people over 60 what they regret most

about how they prepared for retirement. You’ll probably hear that they wish they’d gone about their financial planning in a different way. Here are the most common regrets:

“I should have started saving when i was younger.”

It’s important to start saving for retirement even in the early stages of your career. You probably won’t work for the same employer for an extended period of time, the way your parents did, and a company

or government pension can easily disappear from under your

feet if you lose your job before you qualify. Even if you are self-employed, open a 401K and be vigilant about it.

“I thought i didn’t have enough income to contribute to a savings plan.”

Whether you’re highly disciplined or a free spirit whose money burns holes in your pockets, the cost of living may always seem oppressive. But saving money doesn’t have to gut your paycheck. Set up an IRA with your bank, life insurance company, mutual fund, or stockbroker. Make contributions that match your current capabilities and up the

contributions whenever you can.

“I didn’t diversify enough.”

Diversified retirement planning is crucial; don’t be tempted to put the bulk of your savings at the mercy of the marketplace. If you count on just one source

of retirement income, such as a pension and stocks, you and your loved ones may be left short if the market plummets. Practice comprehensive financial planning with IRAs, a 401K, life insurance, and mutual funds.

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1. In 1935, what budget was given to the newly created Social Security board?

A. $0

B. $50,000

C. $100,000

D. $250,000

In 1935, the newly created Social Security Board, had no budget with which to begin operations. The proposed budget for the Social Security Administration for fiscal year 2015 is $12.5 billion.

2. What was the original percentage of payroll tax withholding for Social Security?

A. 1 percent

B. 2 percent

C. 3 percent

D. 5 percent

Payroll tax withholding for Social Security began January 1, 1937. The original Social Security contribution rates were 1 percent for the employee and 1 percent for the employer on wages up to $3,000. In 2015, the contribution rates are 6.2 percent for both the employee and the employer on wages up to $118,500.

3. How many people tried to use the most-used Social Security number of all time?

A. 20

B. 453

C. 1,000

D. 40,000

In 1938, a wallet-manufacturing company included a sample Social Security card in each wallet. The sample card had the actual Social Security number of the company’s vice president’s secretary. Until the number was voided, more than 40,000 people had attempted to use that Social Security number. Twelve people were still trying to use it as late as 1977.

4. In what year did Social Security begin using computer systems?

A. 1949

B. 1956

C. 1962

D. 1971

On February 27, 1956, Social

Security’s first electronic computer system, an IBM 705, posted earnings records, computed benefit amounts, and reinstated incorrectly reported earnings.

5. When did the Department of Defense first begin using the Social Security number instead of a serial number to identify military personnel?

A. 1954

B. 1962

C. 1969

D. 1974

In 1969, the Department of Defense began using the Social Security number instead of a military service, or serial, number to identify personnel in

Eight trivia questions for the 80th Anniversary

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Over the age of 50 and considering selling the

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the armed forces.

6. How many phone calls have been placed to Social Security’s 800 number?

A. 1.3 billion

B. 2.2 billion

C. 3.4 billion

D. 4.2 billion

Social Security implemented its nationwide 800-number customer service number in October 1988. Since then, there have been more than 2.2 billion phone calls. More than 6,000 employees are currently trained to answer calls.

7. How many possible combinations does the 9-digit Social Security number have?

A. 650 million

B. 724 million

C. 876 million

D. 1 billion

Social Security has issued more than 453 million different Social Security numbers. There are about one billion possible combinations of the Social Security number—giving us enough new numbers for future generations.

8. How much money has Social Security paid in benefits?

A. $125 million

B. $40 billion

C. $15.2 trillion

D. $92 trillion

Since it began in 1935, Social

Security has collected $18.0 trillion (largely from Social Security taxes paid by workers and employers) and paid out $15.2 trillion in benefits and administrative costs.

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Protect your sensitive information from hackers MetroCreative

Reports of personal data being stolen from major

retailers are on the rise. In September 2014 alone, the public learned of potential security breaches at Google, leaked personal celebrity photos and a date breach at Home Depot.

These incidents illustrate the importance of protecting our personal information. Sophisticated criminals can now access information on just about anyone, as those who understand the complexities of network systems and their vulnerabilities

may be able to steal personal information.

A proactive approach to safeguarding sensitive data is the best way for consumers to protect themselves from cyber criminals.

Passwords

Passwords and PIN codes are needed for so many things today. It can be tempting to use a universal password across for all of your accounts, but should someone figure out your password, he or she then has access to all of your accounts. Although it can test your memory, use separate passwords for each account. Use symbols,

case changes and numbers. In addition, periodically change your passwords to further safeguard yourself from hackers.

Use only encrypted sites

Encryption is a computer term for protected sites that hide personal information with a cipher or code. Encrypted websites will feature a lock symbol on the address bar or have the prefix “https://” preceding the URL. Encryption reduces but does not eliminate the risk that your sensitive information will be stolen. Hackers still may find ways to circumvent encrypted sites, but (coninued on page 23)

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such sites are still your best bet when entering sensitive personal information online.

Use credit cards when making purchases

Credit cards and debit cards make access to money quite easy. Debit cards withdraw money directly from your bank account, and hackers who gain access to your debit card and PIN can then drain your bank account before you’re even aware there has been a data breach. But when credit card data is breached, the credit card company is responsible for any losses and your money is still safe and sound in your account. Credit cards offer consumers far more protection from fraudulent purchases than debit cards, so only use credit cards when making purchases online.

Protect your sensitive information

Security breaches can occur when consumers share too much of their personal information. Never give out PIN codes or passwords to others. Do not share social security numbers or other forms of identification over the phone or in public places, and avoid sharing confidential information through email. In addition, password protect computers and other digital devices, including smartphones, to further reduce the risk that potentially sensitive information is stolen by cyber criminals.

Find out which of the 567 ways to claim Social Security can maximize your retirement benefits.

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Securities and Advisory Services offered through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC (“MAS”), Member FINRA/SIPC, and a Registered investment Advisor. MAS and Schrette & Lee Wealth Management are not affiliated companies.

Schrette & Lee Wealth Management has no connection or affiliation with the Social Security Administration, the Health Care Financing Administration or the Department of Health and Human Services.

Paul D. Schrette & Joseph V. Lee208-743-1943 Toll Free: 888-743-19431407 16th Avenue, Lewiston, ID 83501www.schretteandlee.com


Jeff Nesset CFP®, CWS®

Senior Vice President,Financial Advisor, Branch Manager

The Nesset Bodman GroupLewiston

Bob BlakeyVice President,

Financial AdvisorLewiston

Kendell JenksCWS®

Senior Financial AdvisorLewiston

Brad RiceCWS®

Senior Financial AdvisorThe Nesset Bodman Group

Lewiston

Rusty Schatz CWS®

Vice President,Financial Advisor

Moscow

Jeremy Nesset CWS®

Senior Financial AdvisorThe Nesset Bodman Group

Lewiston

Steve Wesner CWS®

Senior Financial Advisor Moscow

George Bodman CWS®

Vice President,Financial Advisor,

Assistant Branch ManagerThe Nesset Bodman Group

Lewiston

208.743.0818 | 800.237.28140305 5th Street | Lewiston, Idaho 83501

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