Social Security, 2015

SOCIAL SECURITY 2015 Social Security turns 80!

Medicare | Disability | Spousal Coverage | Retirement Plans Reporting Fraud | Taxable Benefits | Survivor Benefits | More An advertising supplement of the Lewiston Tribune and Moscow-Pullman Daily News

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Think you’re getting old, Social Security turns 80

By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

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ighty 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.

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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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fitting dentures can interfere with speech and cause gagging, choking and embarrassment.

Over time, many denture wearers become weary of struggling with discomfort, adhesives and upkeep.

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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They look and feel like your own natural teeth. No one will ever know you have dentures.”

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Your spouse may be covered by social security

By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

I

f 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.

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/samesexcouples.

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

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Social Security provides support with survivor benefits

By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

I

n 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.

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 Did you know that nearly every Security is probably more than child in America could get Social the value of any individual life insurance you may own.

Security survivors benefits if a working parent dies? In addition, Moreover, you don’t even need to sign up for a separate policy; Social Security pays more by working and paying Social benefits to children than any Security tax, you are most likely other federal program. Today, already insured without even nearly two millions children knowing it. receive benefits off a deceased parents record each month.

Family members who may be able to receive survivors benefits Although many people based on your work record think Social Security is just a retirement program, you should include a widow or widower, unmarried children up to age know that Social Security also

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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: (continued on page 7)

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

publication, Survivors Benefits, available at socialsecurity.gov/ pubs.

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

You can find additional useful information, such as our survivors’ planner and The parent must be able to show information about how to apply for survivors benefits, at that he/she was receiving onesocialsecurity.gov/pgm/survivors. half of his/her financial support htm. 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 benefits, and how to apply, you should read our

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.

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Want to know more about your future benefits now – open a “My Social Security Account”

By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

T

he 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.

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 If you have not started benefits Card, Retirement, Disability, Supplemental Security Income, you can – get a personalized Online Social Security Statement. and Medicare.

The online Statement provides If you are already receiving eligible workers with secure and benefits you can - access your convenient access to their Social benefit verification letter, Security earnings and benefit payment history, and earnings record instantly using your information, and estimates of

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and password to access their information.

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

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

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

By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

W

hat 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:

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

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

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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.

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8 tips to help you live longer

Newspaper Toolbox

H

ere are some tips to help you stay young at heart and healthy in body.

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

treatments or activities that boost your morale.

slow down and smell the roses.

5. Get enough sleep. Lack 1. Stay active. Get moving! To 3. See your doctor on a regular of sleep increases irritability stay fit, do at least 150 minutes basis. An ounce of prevention and reduces concentration. It of moderate- to high-intensity is worth more than a pound also increases the risk of heart physical activity per week and of cure, and that’s why your disease and certain cancers. For adopt an active lifestyle. For doctor is your best ally. Have most people a good night’s rest example, use the stairs instead of regular checkups and go for involves at least eight the elevator and walk or bike to recommended screening tests. hours of sleep. get where you’re going whenever An early diagnosis can make all 6. Relax. Learn to manage your possible. the difference in the event of stress. Intense stress can cause illness.

2. Watch your diet. A healthy, insomnia and even skin rashes. balanced diet improves your 4. Take care of yourself.

It can also aggravate conditions general well-being and is Listen to your body, and see such as high blood pressure essential for controlling your your dentist and optometrist and Type 2 diabetes. Take time weight, cholesterol levels regularly. Exercise your brain to for yourself and relax. Do yoga, and blood pressure. Follow keep your memory active, and learn to breathe properly, get a the Canada Food Guide’s splurge once in a while on beauty massage or read. In other words,

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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any consumers have never purchased a cemetery headstone or marker. It is in your best interest to first shop around to compare quality, craftsmanship and prices before making a final decision. Selecting a cemetery headstone will be the most permanent thing you will ever purchase in your lifetime, so there’s certainly no need to make a quick and hasty decision.

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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deserve is what we strive for. Our Pricing mission is to listen to your vision Price, of course, is an important and ideas, then make it a reality. factor in determining whether It is what we love about our job. or not you will make a purchase.

We are your full service Don’t be afraid to shop around memorial company. We create and compare quality and prices. either sandblast or lasered Elements that affect pricing stones out of both marble or include – material used, the granite. We will design, create, design, design elements (angels, deliver and set your stone for emblems, etc.), granite color you. and accessories such as photos, vases, etc.

Granite Headstones Granite is the most popular material for a memorial monument. Granite is beautiful and extremely durable, making it a perfect choice for a monument.

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This QR Code links anyone who Bronze Grave Markers scans it with an iphone, ipad A bronze cemetery marker can or camera ready smartphone be created in any size to conform to a webpage that will provide to your cemetery or memorial information such as an obituary, park regulations. Bronze plaques family history, photo gallery, are usually mounted to a granite comments from friends and base. They are manufactured family or a video. You are using a casting method. Liquid, provided the webpage template. molten bronze is poured into a You fill it in with any of the family mold to create the final product. history you would like to remain (continued on page 11)

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Medicare open enrollment begins October 15 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; start reviewing your plan

By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

W

ith 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 Medicareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Plan Finder â&#x20AC;&#x201C; available at www.medicare. 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.

The website is very user friendly and has a way to

gov/find-a-plan â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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 Commissionerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

O

n 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.

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.

For 50 years, the Medicare Requesting a replacement card program has provided essential health care services for millions through my Social Security is of people who are age 65 or older safe, convenient, and easy. Going online saves you a trip to your or disabled. Without Medicare, local Social Security office or many people would not be able to pay for hospital care, doctor’s unproductive time on the phone. visits, medical tests, preventive Fifty years ago, Medicare didn’t services, or prescription drugs. have as many options as it does today. As the largest public Your Medicare card is the 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 halfcentury 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.

13

SOCIAL SECURITY

M O N D A Y, A U G U S T 1 0 , 2 0 1 5

Are your social security benefits taxable?

By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

I

f 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.

$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.

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.

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 800-7721213.

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.

In January, you will receive a Social Security Benefit Statement (SSA-1099) showing the amount If you are married and you file of the benefits you received last a joint return, and your combined year. You can use this statement, income is between $32,000 and when completing your federal

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14 M O N D A Y, A U G U S T 1 0 , 2 0 1 5

SOCIAL SECURITY

Find security with a solid retirement plan

By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

A

chieving 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.

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 Prepare for a secure, will reduce your benefits by as comfortable retirement by much as 30 percent below what visiting www.socialsecurity. you would get if you waited to gov/myaccount. Once there, retire until your full retirement open a secure my Social Security age. If you wait until your full account and assess your financial retirement age (66 for most needs. You’ll get immediate people and age 67 for people

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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.

SOCIAL SECURITY

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15

Know which financial papers to toss and which to keep

MetroCreative

M

any statements and financial documents can be thrown out once their accuracy has been confirmed.

seven years.

stubs, especially after you have Any warranties or instructions received your tax-filing forms and for household items that have have submitted tax information. been sold or donated, then these Many people file away paid bills can be thrown out as well. 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.

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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You should keep certain important documents in a fire-resistant safe in the Many homeowners recognize home rather than in a regular that they have quite a number filing cabinet. These include of things around the house that warranty documents, insurance serve no practical purpose. policies, copies of will and trust Paperwork can accumulate documents, medical history seemingly overnight. Oftentimes, forms, copies of diplomas uncertainty about which financial and school transcripts and an documents to keep and which to inventory of home items. Also discard causes homeowners to keep important documents that keep everything, which can lead pertain to your home purchase or to unnecessary clutter. rental agreement. These include leases, home title, home survey, Many people keep too much information for too long. As you and mortgage documents. begin your organizing detail, Many people opt to keep other keep these pointers in mind. essential items that need a bit more protection in a safety What to Keep deposit box or a burglar-proof Purchase receipts, credit safe at home. Items inside should card statements and any other include a list of bank account and paperwork pertinent for filing credit card account numbers, taxes should be kept for a full copies of identification cards, year until taxes are filed. passports, social security cards, Experts disagree as to what stock and bond certificates, IRA is the best period of time for contribution records, certificates keeping documents related to of deposit, and military taxes after your return has been documents, as well as divorce, filed. Many people can safely marriage, adoption or any other shred tax documents within important certificates. three years of filing. This is the What to Toss end of the normal audit period for “good-faith” errors. If you do Most experts agree, not have any reason to believe including sources from Good information on the returns is Housekeeping, Consumer Reports fraudulent, you can probably and Kiplinger’s, that many safely toss out these older receipts can be discarded shortly returns once the three years is after purchase. ATM receipts up. If you are self-employed or can be thrown away as soon as if you want to be extra cautious, they are reconciled against your you can save tax returns for bank statement. Bank and credit

card statements can be shredded Old insurance policies also after they have been confirmed can be thrown out when they unless you need them for any are replaced by newer ones. specific tax-filing reasons.

However, keep the original After a year, it is generally safe statement showing the purchase to do a thorough clean-out of pay date and price of the policy.

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16 M O N D A Y, A U G U S T 1 0 , 2 0 1 5

SOCIAL SECURITY

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.

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

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

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

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

· 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 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.

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

· 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.

· 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.

· 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.

taken as legal advice. Prior to implementing any of these tips, consult with an attorney certified in estate planning.

· Write a statement indicating that this will revokes all other Laws regarding wills vary based wills that may have been on where you live. Therefore, executed before. learn the legalities before · List the names and addresses preparing a will so you will have of all of your children. If the a document that holds up in a

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· 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 · List any gifts you would like to will. be distributed to certain people.

This article is intended as This may be a doll collection to a general information about daughter, coins to a son, china to what is typically covered in a an aunt, etc. standard will. It should not be

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17

Can’t work due to disability? Maybe Social Security can help

By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

D

isability is something most Information we need include: people don’t like to discuss. • medical records or evidence But if you are not able to work that you have; we can make because you have a disabling copies of your records and condition that is expected to return your originals; last at least one year or result in • the names, addresses, and death, then it’s a subject you may phone numbers for any not be able to avoid. doctors, hospitals, medical In Idaho there are over 43,000 facilities, treatment centers, workers receiving disability or providers that may have benefits under the Social Security information related to your program. Under SSA’s needs disabling condition; and based Supplemental Security • the names, addresses, and Income (SSI) program there is phone numbers of your an additional 28,000 disabled recent employers and the people receiving assistance. dates you worked for each You can apply for disability employer. benefits even if you are still If you don’t have all of the working. Generally, your wages information handy, you should would need to be below $1,090 still apply for benefits right away. or $1,820 for a blind individual, Social Security can assist you in however, there are some getting the necessary documents, exceptions. including obtaining your medical You should apply for disability records. Just keep in mind that benefits as soon as you become if you do have the information disabled. It may take you months we need, it will probably speed to obtain all your medical records up the time it takes to make a and for us to process your decision. application.

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.

toll-free number, 1-800-7721213, 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.

If you prefer, you may call our

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SOCIAL SECURITY

Report for duty by reporting fraud

By Kirk Larson, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

I

n July, with American flags flying, we celebrate our nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

continue to work. That is why rely on you â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the American public â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to report fraud when you see it.

Remember, they are not stealing from the Government, they are stealing from YOU.

While we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t prevent every instance of fraud any more than the most effective law enforcement agency can prevent Social Security has a zeroall crime, we aggressively tolerance policy for fraud. investigate and pursue In tandem with local law prosecution of those who try to enforcement, we pursue cheat and steal from the system. criminals who cheat the system Our message to those who by collecting benefits that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re would defraud Social Security is not owed. Fraud might take the clear: We will find you; we will form of someone claiming to be prosecute you; we will seek the disabled when, in reality, they maximum punishment allowable

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Social Security employs innovative weapons in the fight against fraud. Our Office of Anti-Fraud Programs (OAFP) is the newest member of Social Securityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s anti-fraud team.

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OAFP works closely with our Office of the Inspector

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General to ensure that there are consequences for those who commit fraud â&#x20AC;&#x201D; even if the act isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the elderly, disabled children and war veterans, as well as the chronically ill â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 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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19

Aim for a retirement with no regrets

Newspaper Toolbox

T

ry 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:

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

contributions whenever you can.

“I didn’t diversify enough.”

Diversified retirement planning is crucial; don’t be tempted to “I thought i didn’t have enough put the bulk of your savings at income to contribute to a the mercy of the marketplace. savings plan.”

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SOCIAL SECURITY

Eight trivia questions for the 80th Anniversary 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

In 1938, a wallet-manufacturing company included a sample D. 5 percent Social Security card in each Payroll tax withholding for wallet. The sample card had the Social Security began January 1, actual Social Security number of 1937. The original Social Security the company’s vice president’s contribution rates were 1 percent secretary. Until the number was for the employee and 1 percent voided, more than 40,000 people for the employer on wages up to had attempted to use that Social $3,000. In 2015, the contribution Security number. Twelve people rates are 6.2 percent for both the were still trying to use it as late employee and the employer on as 1977. wages up to $118,500.

4. In what year did Social 3. How many people tried Security begin using computer to use the most-used Social systems?

Security number of all time?

A. 1949 A. 20 B. 1956 B. 453 C. 1962 C. 1,000 D. 1971 D. 40,000 On February 27, 1956, Social C. 3 percent

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

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Why use an SRES® - a Seniors Real Estate Specialist

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ver the age of 50 and considering selling the family home?

You need a REALTOR® with senior experience, knowledge and marketing savvy.

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

SRES® designees not only can create a customized approach to marketing and selling your property, but they also can work with you to explore your housing options to ensure that your next home best serves your current and future needs.

Such certified specialists have knowledge about everything from reverse mortgages to the uses of pensions, 401k 7. How many possible combinations does the 9-digit Social Security number have?

A. 650 million

A. 1.3 billion

B. 724 million

B. 2.2 billion

C. 876 million

C. 3.4 billion

D. 1 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.

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A. $125 million B. $40 billion C. $15.2 trillion D. $92 trillion

Since it began in 1935, Social

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.

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

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SOCIAL SECURITY

Protect your sensitive information from hackers

MetroCreative

R

eports 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

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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.

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Use only encrypted sites

Encryption is a computer term for protected sites that Passwords hide personal information with a cipher or code. Encrypted Passwords and PIN codes websites will feature a lock are needed for so many things symbol on the address bar today. It can be tempting to use or have the prefix “https://” a universal password across preceding the URL. Encryption for all of your accounts, but reduces but does not eliminate should someone figure out your the risk that your sensitive password, he or she then has information will be stolen. access to all of your accounts.

Hackers still may find ways to Although it can test your memory, use separate passwords circumvent encrypted sites, but (coninued on page 23) for each account. Use symbols,

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

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SOCIAL SECURITY

M O N D A Y, A U G U S T 1 0 , 2 0 1 5

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

Protect your sensitive information

Security breaches can occur Use credit cards when making when consumers share too much purchases of their personal information.

Never give out PIN codes or Credit cards and debit cards make access to money quite easy. passwords to others. Do not share social security numbers or Debit cards withdraw money directly from your bank account, other forms of identification over the phone or in public places, and hackers who gain access to your debit card and PIN can then and avoid sharing confidential information through email. drain your bank account before you’re even aware there has been In addition, password protect computers and other digital a data breach. But when credit card data is breached, the credit devices, including smartphones, card company is responsible for to further reduce the risk that any losses and your money is still potentially sensitive information is stolen by cyber criminals. 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.

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SOCIAL SECURITY

The Strength of Advice Jeff Nesset

CFP®, CWS® Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor, Branch Manager The Nesset Bodman Group Lewiston

George Bodman

Bob Blakey

CWS® Vice President, Financial Advisor, Assistant Branch Manager The Nesset Bodman Group Lewiston

Vice President, Financial Advisor Lewiston

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Kendell Jenks

CWS® Senior Financial Advisor Lewiston

Jeremy Nesset

CWS® Senior Financial Advisor The Nesset Bodman Group Lewiston

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CWS® Senior Financial Advisor The Nesset Bodman Group Lewiston

the values, stability, and discipline of our eighty-year-old, employee-owned company that is as independent as you are.

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Steve Wesner

CWS® Senior Financial Advisor Moscow

Rusty Schatz CWS® Vice President, Financial Advisor Moscow

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