Get What’s Yours

Ahoy, future retirees and Social Security beneficiaries! Are you ready to set sail on a journey through the intricate world of Social Security benefits? If so, you’ve come to the right port! In the informative and approachable book “Get What’s Yours” by Laurence J. Kotlikoff, Philip Moeller, and Paul Solman, you’ll find the ultimate guide to understanding, navigating, and ultimately maximizing your Social Security benefits.

**Chapter 1: Introduction to the Social Security Maze**

Our voyage begins with a friendly introduction to the Social Security system. The authors, with their warm and inviting tone, break down the basics and dispel common myths. You’ll gain a solid foundation for understanding the complex world of Social Security benefits.

**Chapter 2: The Social Security Claiming Guide**

Navigating the labyrinth of Social Security rules and regulations can be daunting, but fear not! Kotlikoff, Moeller, and Solman provide a step-by-step guide to claiming your benefits. They explain the importance of timing and help you understand the various claiming options available to you.

**Chapter 3: Your Personal Social Security Statement**

Your Social Security statement is a valuable document, and the authors encourage you to review it carefully. With their friendly guidance, you’ll learn how to interpret your statement and use it to make informed decisions about your benefits.

**Chapter 4: Your Lifetime Income**

Understanding the concept of “lifetime income” is crucial when it comes to Social Security planning. The authors explain how to maximize your benefits to ensure a steady income stream throughout your retirement years. Their approach is like a reassuring hand on your shoulder, guiding you toward financial security.

**Chapter 5: The Restricted Application Strategy**

One of the valuable strategies explored in this chapter is the “Restricted Application Strategy.” The authors illustrate how this approach can help married couples maximize their combined benefits. Their friendly tone makes the sometimes complex strategy easy to grasp.

**Chapter 6: Divorced and Widowed Benefits**

Social Security benefits aren’t limited to the retiree alone. Kotlikoff, Moeller, and Solman discuss how divorced and widowed individuals can access benefits based on their ex-spouse’s or deceased spouse’s earnings records. Their explanations are clear and empathetic.

**Chapter 7: Strategies for Singles**

If you’re single, fear not! This chapter is dedicated to helping individuals navigate the Social Security system without a spouse’s benefits to consider. The authors offer friendly advice on how singles can optimize their benefits and ensure financial security.

**Chapter 8: Strategies for the Well-to-Do**

Even if you’re financially comfortable, understanding Social Security strategies is essential. The authors discuss how high earners can still benefit from smart claiming decisions. Their friendly approach encourages everyone to get what’s rightfully theirs.

**Chapter 9: Social Security’s Family Benefit**

Social Security benefits extend to family members in certain situations. Kotlikoff, Moeller, and Solman break down the family benefit rules in a way that’s easy to understand, ensuring that you’re aware of the potential benefits available to your loved ones.

**Chapter 10: Filing for Benefits**

The act of filing for Social Security benefits may seem straightforward, but the authors remind you that details matter. They provide friendly guidance on the practical steps involved in filing for your benefits and what to expect during the process.

**Chapter 11: Appealing Social Security Decisions**

Mistakes can happen, and sometimes Social Security decisions are incorrect. In this chapter, you’ll learn how to navigate the appeals process should you encounter issues with your benefits. The authors offer friendly advice on how to advocate for yourself effectively.

**Chapter 12: Pensions and Social Security**

Navigating the intersection of pensions and Social Security can be tricky. Kotlikoff, Moeller, and Solman provide insights into how your pension can affect your Social Security benefits and how to make smart decisions when you have both.

**Chapter 13: The Future of Social Security**

The future of Social Security is a topic of concern for many. The authors offer their friendly perspective on the sustainability of the program and discuss potential changes on the horizon. They emphasize the importance of staying informed and adaptable in your retirement planning.

**Chapter 14: Social Security Secrets**

As we near the end of our journey, the authors share some “Social Security Secrets” that can help you maximize your benefits. With a friendly and conspiratorial tone, they reveal lesser-known strategies and insights to ensure you get the most out of the system.

**Chapter 15: The Bottom Line**

In the final chapter, Kotlikoff, Moeller, and Solman provide a summary of the key takeaways from their book. They offer friendly reminders of the crucial points to remember as you embark on your Social Security journey.

**In Summary: Navigating the Social Security Seas with Kotlikoff, Moeller, and Solman**

“Get What’s Yours” by Laurence J. Kotlikoff, Philip Moeller, and Paul Solman is more than just a book; it’s a friendly and comprehensive guide to mastering the complexities of the Social Security system. With their approachable style and expertise, the authors make the often-confusing world of Social Security benefits understandable for readers of all backgrounds.

What sets this book apart is its focus on empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their Social Security benefits. The authors demystify the rules, strategies, and claiming options, ensuring that readers can navigate the system with confidence.

Kotlikoff, Moeller, and Solman’s friendly tone throughout the book is like having a knowledgeable friend by your side, explaining the intricacies of Social Security in plain language. They provide examples, anecdotes, and real-world scenarios that make the concepts relatable and applicable to your own situation.

The book is not just about maximizing benefits; it’s also about making retirement planning decisions that align with your personal goals and circumstances. Whether you’re married, divorced, single, or well-to-do, the authors offer tailored advice to help you get the most out of the Social Security system.

In the end, “Get What’s Yours” is an invaluable resource for anyone approaching retirement age or already in retirement. With Kotlikoff, Moeller, and Solman as your trusted guides, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the Social Security seas and secure the benefits you deserve. So, hoist your anchor, set your course, and sail confidently into a retirement with the knowledge and peace of mind that come from understanding and maximizing