I spent 6 years in college studying mechanical engineering, and then 7 years working at an aerospace contractor where my colleagues and I designed, built, tested, and launched satellite-based telescope systems. One of the features of all engineering design is the concept of “factors of safety.” Simply put, factors of safety are margins built into […]

Friend of the blog DT wrote in and said: In regards to your recent “When to Take Social Security” article, you left something out. You can take Social Security early (say, age 62), then invest that money, and your investment will end up better than if you had waited on Social Security until age 67 […]

Thanks to reader Lynn, who wrote in this week with some specifics about her household’s situation and an overarching question: When should we start taking Social Security? I’ll provide background information below, and then we’ll discuss a few common “if –> then” heuristics to help you with your Social Security planning. Background – The Pros […]