The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is issuing automatic Economic Impact Payment (EIP) refunds to eligible taxpayers who missed claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns. This initiative, announced in December 2024, is a part of ongoing efforts to provide financial relief stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s everything you need to know … Read more
The Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) ensures that Social Security benefits and other government programs keep pace with inflation. For 2025, the COLA is set at 2.5%, impacting millions of Americans. Let’s look into what COLA is, how it’s determined, and what changes to expect this year. COLA COLA is designed to protect the purchasing … Read more
Reporting your income to the Social Security Administration (SSA) is critical to ensuring that you continue to qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This program provides essential financial support to those with low income who are blind, disabled, or aged 65 and older. Accurate income reporting not only helps the SSA allocate benefits fairly but … Read more
Social Security benefits are a lifeline for many retirees, providing much-needed financial stability. However, knowing how these benefits are taxed is essential for maximizing your retirement income. While federal taxes on Social Security payments are widely known, some states also impose their own taxes on these benefits. Let’s look into why Social Security is taxed, … Read more
The Sacramento Family First Economic Support Program (FFESP) was launched in California at the end of 2024 to address economic inequality and promote child well-being. Designed as a pilot initiative, it offers direct financial support to 200 low-income families caring for African American, American Indian, and Native American children aged 0–5. This initiative aims to … Read more
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly referred to as food stamps, is a vital federal initiative designed to ensure individuals and families can access nutritious food. Managed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the program provides benefits through an Electronic Banking Transfer (EBT) card. In Texas, the Texas Health and Human Services … Read more
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) offers financial support to workers who meet eligibility requirements. The payments are a lifeline for many, but knowing how they’re scheduled and managed is essential for beneficiaries to plan effectively. Let’s look into how SSDI payments work, their electronic payment methods, and what to do if issues arise. Payments SSDI … Read more
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously known as Food Stamps, is a lifeline for over 40 million Americans, including thousands in Texas. Administered via Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards, SNAP provides monthly financial assistance to help low-income households purchase food. However, staying eligible for these benefits requires beneficiaries to know the recertification process and … Read more
In a landmark move, President Joe Biden has signed the Social Security Fairness Act into law, bringing long-awaited reforms to millions of retirees. This historic legislation eliminates two controversial provisions that previously reduced Social Security benefits for public-sector workers and their families, marking a significant step toward economic fairness and dignity for retirees. Let’s look … Read more
Social Security is a vital support system for millions of Americans, especially retirees and those with disabilities. With an estimated 68 million adults collecting benefits in 2024, the system plays a critical role in ensuring financial stability. However, missed or delayed payments can be frustrating and stressful, especially given the reliance on these funds for … Read more