Your complete guide to Social Security retirement and medical benefits

Determining whether to file early for retirement benefits or wait until age 70 can be complicated. Claiming retirement benefits early can lower your benefits, but it affects dependents and survivors benefits differently. Learn this and more with Social Security, Medicare & Government Pensions--completely updated for 2025.

Social Security benefits. Figure out how to get retirement, disability, dependents, and survivors benefits, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Decide whether it's best to claim benefits early, at full retirement age, or not until you turn 70--and how to time your claims so you and your spouse get the best benefits.

Medicare & Medicaid. Learn how to qualify for and enroll in both programs, including Medicare Part D drug coverage.

Medigap insurance & Medicare Advantage plans. Compare Medigap and Medicare Advantage plans, and choose what's best for you.

Government pensions & veterans benefits. Discover when and how to claim the benefits you have earned.

What's New in 2025?

• New cap on drug costs under Part D


• Elimination of Part D donut hole, and


• New Medicare costs and Social Security amounts for 2025.

Whether you're looking for yourself or helping a parent, you'll find valuable information here to help get the benefits you've earned.