Continuing our discussion of Social Security benefits, we focus on unique provisions that can apply to public employees. Some people assume all public employees participate in Social Security, but this isn't always the case. We explore why some government workers, such as police officers and firefighters, might not be part of Social Security due to their unique pension plans.

We discuss two critical provisions that can impact Social Security benefits: the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP). Our guest, Kirk, from the Social Security Administration explains how these rules apply to folks trying to claim benefits on their own or a spouse's record while receiving a government pension.

More about the GPO: https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/program-explainers/government-pension-offset.html

More about the WEP: https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/program-explainers/windfall-elimination-provision.html

We dive into the essentials of Social Security benefits with special guest Kirk from the Social Security Administration. Kirk answers frequently asked questions about creating a My Social Security account, its benefits, and how to use online resources for your retirement planning.

Learn how to qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, understand the calculations behind your benefit amounts, and get insights into the financial health of the Social Security system. Kirk also discusses the best age to start receiving benefits and how to maximize your Social Security income.

Stay tuned for the next episode where we'll explore more specifics with provisions of Social Security that may impact public employees.

Official Social Security website: https://www.ssa.gov/

Significant changes are coming to PEBB Medicare Part D in 2025. Discover why these changes are being implemented, how they aim to reduce premiums and what specific plans will include Medicare Part D. Our guest is Ellen, who works as a Retiree Benefits Manager at the Washington State Healthcare Authority. She explains what this new change means for retirees and where to go for more information.

Open enrollment is Oct. 28, 2024 – Nov. 25, 2024.

https://www.hca.wa.gov/