Social Security and Medicare: Top 20 Questions Answered (SM20)

As tax clients age, it is common for tax practitioners to field questions from clients regarding Social Security and Medicare. Accordingly, general tax practitioners should have a basic understanding of these two complex retirement programs. This program addresses commonly asked questions about both Social Security and Medicare, based on questions our viewers have asked over the years.

• When can and should I start receiving Social Security
• How much does Social Security pay when I start receiving it
• When can I get Social Security through a current or ex-spouse
• Can and should I receive Social Security benefits while I continue to work
• Does receiving Medicare affect my Social Security benefits

• What are the various Medicare options and how do they work
• When and how must a person sign up for Medicare
• If covered by Medicare, are there any out-of-pocket payments I must make
• What if I am covered by my employer’s or my spouse’s health insurance but age 65 or older

• Advise clients regarding basic Social Security and Medicare issues
• Understand Social Security and Medicare options for oneself