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Product description The easy way to get a handle on Social Security Are you or a loved one looking to understand how Social Security benefits work? Social Security For Dummies helps you better understand and navigate the U.S. Social Security Administration, covering important topics such as how benefits are funded and distributed, the various Social Security options and how to qualify, and deciding when to start accepting Social Security benefits. Additionally, it explains the history, regulations, and significant changes to U.S. Social Security, as well as considerations for the future of the program. Advice for ensuring you're receiving your maximum benefits Gives you a thorough breakdown of how benefits are determined and what programs are sponsored by the Social Security Administration Covers challenges and considerations for those with special circumstances Whether you're receiving Social Security benefits, helping someone who is, or thinking about beginning to accept benefits yourself, Social Security For Dummies is a must-have resource for navigating this complicated (and sometimes confusing) landscape. From the Back Cover A step-by-step guide to getting Social Security benefits for you and your family Learn to: Make sure you and your family get the benefits you've earned Navigate the system Determine when you qualify for retirement and disability benefits Challenge a decision on your benefits Understand how the program is funded Confused or uncertain about Social Security? This friendly, easy-to-understand guide cuts through the complexities and gives you the practical information you need to make sense of Social Security, make the most of the program, and make smart decisions about retirement. Start with the basics — learn what Social Security is and how it works, as well as why you need it and how to qualify Take the plunge — find out how to file for Social Security, collect and keep your benefits, and deal with the Social Security Administration Discover the benefits — grasp the rules covering spousal, family, and disability benefits and learn strategies to help you maximize your benefits Plan for economic security — discover how Social Security and Medicare work together to help with healthcare costs, get the facts on working in retirement, and consider how Social Security fits into your financial future Open the book and find: Easy explanations of Social Security's complex rules How to use Social Security calculators and statements Advice on when to start collecting retirement benefits Tips for keeping your Social Security number safe from theft How to help a loved one apply for and manage benefits Ways to handle benefit mistakes and disputes Ten myths about Social Security How potential program changes could affect you About the Author Jonathan Peterson is Executive Communications Director at AARP and an award-winning journalist. He is a former Washington correspondent for the Los Angeles Times. During his news career, he covered the White House, state and national political campaigns, and various facets of U.S. domestic and economic policy. He was a 2007 National Press Foundation fellow in the Retirement Issues in the 21st Century program.