Preparing For Retirement - SSA

I'm going to locate my local Social Security Administration office today to begin my government's process to get benefits. I turn 62 May 10th which is the minimum age for early retirements. I've checked their benefits calculator and they tell me I'll receive $1,345 a month every month.

I had my first payment from my two retirement accounts yesterday which were a precursor of things to come. It was good to see my balance jump $535 for a change. The regular monthly payments are $265 and begin March 01, 2011.

So, doing the math, I'll have $1,610 a month to live on for the rest of my life. Mind you that I won't have any medical coverage until January of 2012 when I should become eligible for Veteran's Medical coverage, maybe. The maybe comes from all the money I've received from pension and IRA cash outs. If they consider that & social security as too much money I'll have to wait another year until I'm poor enough to qualify. It's sad, very sad indeed. Had I known they'd be screwing me out of benefits like this I would not have enlisted to fight their dirty war in Vietnam in 1969. The government changed eligibility requirements with the stroke of a pen in 2005. I guess it's up to me to just stay really really healthy.

At that time in May when my unemployment checks stop and Social Security starts I'll also give it a go at getting foods stamps from the government. I just used their calculator which said I should be elligible for $200 in food stamps a month which would sure help and would add to my $1,610 income to give me $1,810 a month. I can do this.

Re: Preparing For Retirement - SSA

Bob, don't forget COLAS in SS . They have been very small in the last few years, but every little bit helps.

Re: Preparing For Retirement - SSA

It took a while but I also never forget to ask for senior discounts every time I spend money. If you don't ask, you won't get it.

Re: Preparing For Retirement - SSA

Too true! You don't use public transportation, but that's a great saver here: senior bus fare is only 75 cents; free transfer from bus to bus within a 2 hour period, so I can get out, shop and be home for just 75 cents!

Re: Preparing For Retirement - SSA

I recently to my first mass transit train/bus trip to a store 20 miles away. My best friend took the trip with me just to show me the ropes of the system. It was fun, fast & cheap. It was pouring down rain at the time and we did it during rush hour traffic. How nice it was to kick back and safely be delivered to our destination.

Re: Preparing For Retirement - SSA

Those of us living this side of the 'pond' who are either disabled or over 60 can apply for a 'bus pass' which entitles you to FREE local bus journeys throughout the country after 09.30am (in some areas its after 09.00)

Re: Preparing For Retirement - SSA

Here old folks get mugged and beaten to death at train & bus stations. You must be careful if traveling alone.