Learning Center

Can You Laminate Your Social Security Card?

Laminating documents can be a great way to protect them while also adding support and preventing tears and wrinkles. The downside to lamination, however, is that it can prevent access to the actual original document itself. Because a laminated piece of paper is encased in plastic, it can be difficult…

What Does the Social Security Card Look Like?

In the United States, a picture ID is required for a number of things, including purchases of products that are age-restricted. You also need to present a picture ID to do things like rent a vehicle or enter into certain other contractual agreements. Although identification with your picture on it…

Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan F

If you are turning 65 soon, you may be considering your Medicare options. As you explore ways to expand coverage and protect yourself from potentially overwhelming medical expenses now and in the years ahead, you may consider purchasing supplemental insurance to help you pay for some of the healthcare costs…

What do Social Security taxes pay for?

Upon receipt of the W-2 Wage and Tax Statement from your employer, you may look at line item number 4 on the form, which is labeled “Social Security tax withheld,” and wonder where these automatic deductions have been going. The simple answer is that the Social Security tax, which is…

How Do Social Security Numbers Work?

Each legal resident of the United States is assigned a Social Security Number, and it serves a critical purpose in identification. These numbers are used for a variety of things, including taxes, benefits, signing up for loans, and much more. If you qualify for a Social Security Number, it is…

When Does My Social Security Check Come?

Eligibility for retirement benefits through Social Security may begin at age 62, assuming the beneficiary has earned enough credits through employment. Over the span of a working lifetime, accrual of forty credits is the standard requirement for benefits at retirement. Exceptions apply for disability and survivor benefits. The Social Security…

How Does Medicare Plan G Work?

Medicare recipients have several options when it comes to expanding or enhancing their Original Medicare benefits. These options vary widely, so understanding their differences can help recipients make the best choice for their care. What is a Medicare Supplement Plan? Original Medicare, Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical…

How Does Medicare Pay for Hospice?

End-of-life care involves a wide range of services, and so it requires special coverage rules through Medicare Part A. A recipient may not see much change in terms of how their services are provided, they should understand what their cost-sharing obligations may be while receiving hospice care. What is Hospice…