Topic: Center for Retirement Research

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Social Security: eight key things to know

Social Security recipients should look into the possibilities of spousal benefits, as well as their own, to maximize their Social Security income.
Census finds 1 in 8 Americans are seniors – an all-time high

Newly released 2010 Census figures show that seniors make up a larger share of the American population than ever before. The trend will only gain steam in the years ahead.
Estate taxes: States will want their cut, too

Nineteen states already have estate taxes. Expect them to raise rates and other states to impose estate taxes.
The New Economy
Reverse mortgages are expensive. Try a family loan instead.

Reverse mortgages are too complicated and costly, says a recent report from consumer advocates. One alternative: a private reverse mortgage.
Want a balanced federal budget? Cut state workers' pay.

On average, state workers make $39.66 an hour, have traditional pensions untouched by stock market moves, and are laid off at one-third the rate of private-sector workers. Considering concerns about the federal budget, are government jobs too cushy?
Tax VOX
Think government spends too much on health care? Look at the bill for retirees.

A typical couple retiring this year will get $400,000 in Medicare benefits in their lifetimes. But they'll spend another $200,000 on health care themselves.
Economic crisis scrambles retirement math

The 401(k) model of saving is under duress as stocks slide. Home equity losses don’t help.
Will pension funds suffer the next financial implosion?

Concerns mount as to whether these plans can stay afloat amid recession.
Retirement savings: It's your responsibility

As some employers shrink retirement offerings, consider these moves to help grow your nest egg.
Retirement jitters on the rise

Financial confidence plunges – for retirees and workers both – as US economy falters.
Social Security sounder than you might think

Economic Scene: The latest report from the trustees of the system show improvement in its finances, despite some grim coverage.