Social Security and Medicare Figures for 2012

The Social Security Administration has announced that for the first time since 2009, a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will be paid to Social Security beneficiaries and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients. Monthly benefits will increase 3.6% starting in January 2012 for Social Security beneficiaries and starting on December 30, 2011, for SSI recipients. Read more in this Financial Tip.

Tax Strategist: How Much Do I Need to Put Aside for Retirement?

A frequently asked question is, “How much do I need to put aside for retirement?” The answer to that question varies with each individual. There a number of factors to consider: the amount of your current income, savings and assets; how many years until you plan to retire; the retirement lifestyle you desire, and what you can afford to put aside.