11 Retirement Benefit Changes Coming in 2012

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I won't even get 1 full gas tank for $43!
I start getting my first check in Feb. I wonder if it will be added in to that check or if I have to wait til the next increase. Any info on that?

Connie of NY 8:06AM January 24, 2012

I am A divorced almost 65yr old woman and am collecting benefits of only $64.00 extra from my ex-spouse's social security benefits. He made up to $75,000 per year and more in overtime, while I made $36,000 tops 1 or 2 yrs. How is it possibly that I am only collecting $64.00 more. He worked from age 16, and the job he retired from had worked there ($75,000) for 35yrs retiring at 55 yrs of age. He also has a pension plan with them besides SIP and military benefits. I collect $1064 in benefits from SS Disability, $964 after Medicare is taken out plus the $64.00 from him. Do I need to have the benefits recalculated or what?

Donna of IA 3:47AM January 24, 2012

yes they give it to you and they take it for some thingelse thank you.

anna of NY 2:39AM January 24, 2012

Emily Brandon is an idiot. Does she really believe that a $43.00 a month is a signifigant increase? Let's see if she would appreciate such a wonderful increase in her pay. US News would you please give Ms. Brandon a $43.00 a month increase in her pay and tell her not to expect any more for 3 years? I think that would be a signifigant increase for her. Don't you agree Emily????? The next time you see your SS deduction and think about all of the years that you have to pay for it then the government will spend it for you, then perhaps you can get a piddling sum back from them when you get old enough. If they haven't blown it all on bs projects. Up yours you self-deserving idiot.

Dallas Y. Brooner of CA 12:43AM January 24, 2012

I worked for 44 years and paid my social security tax every year. I paid more every year than I make every year collecting my social security. The monthly amount I get is a joke. I should be getting at least twice the amount. I did get the $43 extra dollars but since I turned 65 this year and was able to be on Medicare, they now take $99.90 out of my monthly check. I now make less then I did before. I am almost homeless and no help from anyone. This is how us seniors are treated. America is great but they sure know how to suck us dry in the government.

Pamela Fulton of CA 12:42AM January 24, 2012

The crash of the economy made millions richer and made millions poor took their life savings and homes. We all know the story and only a few were prosecuted who caused this disaster.

cal of CA 12:21AM January 24, 2012

If you think $43 per month is significant, I challenge you to show me how that is going to make a difference of any kind to a person who is limited in their income. Give me a break. Also, how many people are aware that anyone earning more than $37,000 per year (combined) and collecting Social Security has to pay income tax (double taxation) on 85% of the Social Security they receive?

S. Smallwood of TX 11:42PM January 23, 2012

WoW! Big increase. Have you priced gasoline recently, not to mention the increased cost of groceries. They tell older people to eat more fresh fruits and vegtables...who can afford them!!

Bonnie of TX 10:07PM January 23, 2012

The retirements myths are rediculous and certainly not accurate. The workers who are/were facing difficulties were certainly not ready for retirement and did not plan for it either. Costly debts should be taken care of especially mortgages. You should be expected to live on your monthly benefits. Savings/401K plans should be used for unexpected funds such as vacation.
After reading this depressing article, it alone would change one's mind about retirement which is probably the plan. Work until you drop so you never take advantage of the benefits you have worked so hard to accumulate. I am so offended. i have no received the first check since retirement but I have no regrets because I planned.

Inez Ferguson of SC 7:53AM January 12, 2012