Better retirements start with clarity
Practical explainers, templates, and frameworks for U.S. households planning the next chapter. Everything we publish is jargon-light and research-backed.
The content on this blog is for educational purposes only. fidser is not a licensed financial advisor - please consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions.
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Latest Articles
7 articles found

7 Smart Ways to Maximize Your Social Security Benefits
Did you know that when you claim Social Security can increase your monthly check by as much as 77%? These seven strategies can help you make the most of benefits you've spent decades earning.
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Working While on Social Security: The Truth About Benefits
Thinking about taking on part-time work after starting Social Security? You're not alone, and you're not risking your benefits the way you might think. Here's what the earnings test really means for your retirement income.
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Maximize Your Social Security as a Married Couple
You've spent decades building a life together. Now it's time to make sure you're getting every dollar you've earned from Social Security. The right spousal benefit strategy could mean tens of thousands more in retirement income.
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Social Security COLA 2026: What It Means for Your Check
The Social Security COLA for 2026 will affect millions of retirees. But will this cost-of-living adjustment actually keep up with your real expenses? Here's what you need to know about how it's calculated and what it means for your budget.
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What Happens to Your Partner's Social Security If You Die First?
It's the conversation most couples avoid, but it's one of the most important financial planning discussions you'll ever have. If you die before your spouse, what happens to your Social Security benefits? The answer could mean thousands of dollars a year in retirement income for your partner.
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Claiming Social Security at 62 vs 67 vs 70: The Math
Your Social Security claiming decision could mean a difference of hundreds of thousands of dollars over your lifetime. But here's the surprising truth: there's no universal 'right' answer. The math tells a different story for everyone.
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How Social Security Gets Calculated (Plain English)
You've paid into Social Security for decades, but do you actually know how your benefit gets calculated? Most people have no idea what AIME, PIA, or bend points mean. Let's break down the Social Security calculation in plain English so you can actually understand what you'll get in retirement.
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