When Social Security was launched back in 1935 it was typical for women to remain inside home to raise the family. In the majority of families the husband was the major earner or the only earner in the household. In addition, women statistically survive longer than men, particularly if the wife is younger than the husband.
The coincidence of lower or no earnings and a longer life span implied many women noticed themselves in poverty at the time their husbands expired, as their husband's Social Security retirement benefits ended at their death. The Social Security Board realized the problems that women face and have employed several adjustments to the system over the years to account for these needs.
One important amendments to the Social Security plan was to enable women to apply for benefits at 62 instead of waiting until 65 under the theory that they were younger than their spouses and that they would want to retire simultaneously.
Then in 1939 two new categories of benefits were included: Social Security survivor benefits and dependent benefits (to be paid to the spouse and minor kids of retired employees).
These changes changed Social Security from a retirement plan that only paid benefits to retired workers into a family-based system, where spouses and children could receive benefits of retired, disabled or departed workers. This was an enormous help to women who were not eligible for retirement benefits on their own, or who had much smaller benefits than their spouses.
Today, even though it's not strange for women to earn as much or more than their spouses, they still may take time off to look after families, and they still typically live longer than their spouses. Moreover, the number of divorced women attaining retirement age is greater than before. As a result of of this, a lot of women still get Social Security spousal benefits or survivor benefits instead of benefits depending on their own job period.
This is why it's important for women - regardless of their relationship status is - to understand the spousal and survivor benefits open to them in addition to the retirement benefits so they can enjoy the optimum benefits they are eligible to.
Have You Planned To Start Saving For Retirement?
Getting ready for retirement is a lot harder than it used to be. Companies no longer offer pensions and many are reducing or eliminating matching contributions to 401K plans. In addition, Social Security benefits are expected to be smaller and you may have to wait longer to collect them.
Using Government Loans In Order To Upgrade And Improve Your House.
Being on the property ladder whether renting or owning your own home it can be a very expensive ordeal.
Social Security Benefits: Some Crucial Details On Cost Of Living Adjustment 2011
For the second year in a row people who rely on Social Security will not be receiving a cost of living increase. This is only the second time since the cost of living adjustment (COLA) was adopted that recipients have not received an increase.
Few Valuable Tips- To Learn About Getting A 401K Plan.
Retirement income is often referred to as the three-legged stool because traditionally retirement income has come from three sources: pensions, Social Security and your own savings. Well, the three-legged stool is looking pretty lopsided for many people these days as pensions become extinct and Social Security changes take place.
Three Key Reasons To Use A Fee Only Financial Consultants
There are three different types of financial advisors: the commission broker who sells a product for a commission, the fee-based advisor who provides investment management for a percentage of the assets invested, and the fee only financial planner who provides a comprehensive financial plan for an hourly fee.
Questions To Ask When Choosing A Financial Planner
Many people hire financial planners to help them meet their financial goals. Whether you are a beginner investor with very little experience or whether you have a good knowledge and understanding of financial planning topics, a financial planner can be a valuable asset when planning for your financial goals.
How Are Social Security Benefits Calculated? Some Things And Issues Affecting The Benefits
One of the most popular Social Security questions that I hear from baby boomers getting ready to retire is "how are Social Security benefits calculated?" This is an important question because it could affect how long you need to work, whether you should continue to work during your retirement years
Discover How To Apply For Social Security
If you areapproaching retirement, you are probably already looking into how to apply for Social Security benefits. Generally, you can apply once you are within 120 days of your 62nd birthday. There are several things you should know to make the application process as smooth as possible.
Why Women Require To Learn Regarding Social Security Spouse And Survivor Benefits
July 11th, 2010
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