Lee Huffman
Verified
(He/Him)
As seen in:
BaldThoughts.com,
We Travel There with Lee Huffman,
Apple Podcasts,
Forbes,
Forbes Advisor,
MSN,
MSN Canada,
Yahoo Life,
Business Insider,
TIME,
USA TODAY Blueprint,
Yahoo News
and
Covers:
Travel, loyalty programs, credit card rewards, personal finance, real estate.
Father & husband 🥰 Travel & credit card expert ✈️ Freelance writer 💻 Podcast host 🎙️ Soccer Dad ⚽️
Articles by Lee Huffman
Estate account: What it is, rules, how to open
An estate account is a specialized checking account used to manage a deceased person's financial affairs. It allows an executor or administrator to collect assets, pay debts and distribute funds to beneficiaries. This type of account helps separate the estate's funds from personal finances. It can simplify estate administration and provide a record of transactions.
Wells Adds 2 Transfer Partners, Dolly’s Impact on TN Travel, Best & Worst Economy Class
737-9 MAX aircraft. Photo courtesy of Alaska Airlines. This post may contain affiliate links that pay us when you click on them. Welcome to The Morning Shave for Friday, August 28, 2026. Wells Fargo has increased its airline and hotel transfer partners to 11, Dolly Parton used her music stardom to benefit her local community, and we look at which airlines have the best and worst economy-class seats. Visit BaldThoughts.com/tms to read all the stories.
How to buy CATL stock
Investors who want to piggyback on the growth of popular companies should look at ancillary businesses that grow in parallel because of their relationship to the popular business. For investors who find Tesla (TSLA) appealing, an ancillary company to consider is Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. (CATL) because it makes Tesla's battery packs. Here's what to know about the company and how to potentially invest.
Asiana Airlines Leaving Star Alliance
Photo courtesy of Asiana Airlines. This post may contain affiliate links that pay us when you click on them. If you’re a frequent flyer who’s been earning or burning miles through Star Alliance, here’s a heads-up worth bookmarking: Asiana Airlines is officially leaving the alliance on December 16, 2026. The Korean carrier announced it will formally depart Star Alliance at 23:59 Korea Standard Time on that date, ending a run that started back in 2003.
Dynamic Pricing for Attractions, Marriott Adding 70+ Mexico Resorts, Jet Fuel Shortage Update
Cenote Tortuga. Photo by Jorge Fernandez Salas on Unsplash. This post may contain affiliate links that pay us when you click on them. Welcome to The Morning Shave for Wednesday, June 10, 2026. Learn how some attractions are implementing dynamic pricing, how Marriott is adding more than 70 hotels and resorts in Mexico, and what the IATA Chief has to say about a potential jet fuel shortage and how it will affect airfare. Visit BaldThoughts.com/tms to read all the stories.
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card review - Enjoy complimentary upgrades and lounge access
Frequent travelers who love to fly Delta and value elite status should consider the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card. This premium travel credit card offers unparalleled benefits when flying Delta, including complimentary upgrades, lounge access, and free checked bags. Cardholders can also accelerate their path to elite status and enjoy a 15% discount on award tickets. Learn more about the Delta SkyMiles Reserve card to decide if it's the best airline credit card for your wallet.
9 Ways to Save Money on Gas (From a Sports Dad Who Drives Hundreds of Miles a Week)
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash This post may contain affiliate links that pay us when you click on them. If anyone has a reason to care about gas prices, it’s me. As a sports dad in Tennessee, I spend a significant chunk of my life behind the wheel. Whether it’s driving my kids to practices, games, or tournaments, I’m driving constantly throughout the Southeast. Even when gas prices are low, our fuel costs are high.
Bilt Rewards Rent Day – Double Points, Transfer Bonus & More
Photo by Jens Neumann from Pixabay This post may contain affiliate links that pay us when you click on them. Bilt Rewards is the only program that allows renters to earn points when paying their rent without any fees. Every month, Bilt Rewards hosts a special day where all members receive exclusive perks and enhanced rewards. On May 1st, you’ll earn valuable points, prizes, and discounts through the app. Bilt Mastercard holders also earn twice as many points on Rent Day, even on bonus categories.
JetBlue Companion Pass, Flight Turbulence, Dumb Things We Spend Money On
JetBlue A321 with Mint livery. Photo courtesy of JetBlue. This post may contain affiliate links that pay us when you click on them. Welcome to The Morning Shave for Friday, April 17, 2026. The reasons behind increased flight turbulence, JetBlue introduces a Companion Pass, and dumb things we keep spending too much money on. Visit BaldThoughts.com/tms to read all the stories. We read a ton of travel articles each day for our research to share the best travel tips, tricks, and news with you.
The Average Social Security Benefit Only Covers $24K a Year - Here's How to Bridge the Gap Original
Social Security plays a central role in retirement income for millions of Americans, but the benefit alone rarely covers the full cost of living. In 2026, the average retirement benefit is about $2,071 per month, which is a bit more than $24,000 per year. This meager income leaves many retirees seeking additional sources of income, considering that the typical American believes they need about $1.3 million saved to retire comfortably.
Social Security Sent You Too Much - Here's What Happens If You Don't Pay It Back Original
Social Security overpayments happen more often than many retirees expect. In many cases, the extra money arrives due to income reporting delays, beneficiary errors, or administrative mistakes within the Social Security Administration (SSA). Unfortunately, when an overpayment occurs, the responsibility for fixing it usually falls on you. Typically, you'll receive a formal notice explaining the mistake and the amount owed.
This quiet 2026 Social Security change is sneaking up on retirees
Lee Huffman Most Social Security news focuses on headline updates like annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs). These increases often draw attention because they directly affect monthly benefit payments. However, smaller rule changes can also influence retirement income. One 2026 update involves the Social Security retirement earnings test, a rule that affects people who claim benefits early while continuing to work.
5 Social Security Benefits Most Seniors Never Claim Original
When most seniors think about Social Security, they focus on the monthly checks they'll receive in retirement. However, the program includes several lesser-known benefits that can significantly increase retirement income or provide financial protection for families. Many eligible seniors miss these opportunities simply because they never realize they qualify. Understanding these overlooked provisions can help you claim every dollar the system allows.
Warren Buffett Has A Bold Strategy To End Federal Taxes on Social Security Original
If you rely on Social Security, understanding potential changes matters for your retirement plan, especially when it comes to taxes. During the Berkshire Hathaway 2024 Annual Shareholder Meeting, legendary investor Warren Buffett made a striking comment about federal taxes in the United States. Buffett argued that if large corporations paid taxes the way his company does, many Americans would not need to pay federal taxes at all, including Social Security taxes.
How Working Part-Time in Retirement Can Quietly Change Your Social Security Benefits Original
Working part-time in retirement gives you more financial flexibility and can stretch your savings. Many retirees take on part-time work to stay active, maintain social connections, or supplement fixed income, like Social Security and pensions. However, earning income while collecting Social Security can affect your benefits in ways that are not always obvious. Some retirees are surprised to see part of their benefits temporarily withheld or taxed differently.
You Have 60 Days to Appeal This Social Security Decision Before It's Final Original
Many retirees open a letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) and assume the decision inside is final. The notice may state that your senior benefits claim was denied, that a monthly payment is being reduced, or that an overpayment must be repaid. At first glance, it can feel like there is nothing left to do. In reality, most SSA decisions can be appealed. The key is knowing that you generally have only 60 days from the date on the notice to challenge the decision.
The Little-Known Social Security Rule That Quietly Grows Your Check Over Time Original
Most retirees know that waiting longer to claim Social Security leads to a bigger monthly check. What many people do not realize is that a specific rule drives that increase and allows the extra money to compound over time. The rule is called delayed retirement credits, and they are one of the most overlooked senior benefits. Because the increase compounds and lasts for life, the difference can be substantial.
Kevin O'Leary and Dave Ramsey Disagree on Social Security at 62 - Who's Right? Original
Two of the most recognizable voices in personal finance land on opposite sides of a critical retirement question about when to claim Social Security benefits. Radio host Dave Ramsey often argues for taking benefits early, while investor Kevin O'Leary generally pushes the opposite philosophy. While these two experts disagree on Social Security at 62, it is a real concern that retirees face when deciding on smart money moves for seniors.
7 Ways to Stretch Your Social Security Check in March 2026 Original
If you're collecting Social Security, you're already seeing the 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for this year. While the 2026 COLA increased your check size, it may not feel like much of a raise. Prices for groceries, housing, and health care continue to climb. And these higher expenses can quickly absorb that increase, even if your spending habits don't change. When retirement income is largely fixed, small adjustments to how you manage your check can make a meaningful difference.
Why Trump's Recent Comments on Social Security Have Retirees on Edge Original
With Social Security benefits a key piece of a senior's retirement income, any time someone from the Trump administration mentions changes to the program, it's important to pay attention. With the Social Security trust funds projected to face shortfalls in the early 2030s, even offhand remarks about senior benefits seem like veiled threats to a program that supports millions of retirees.
4 Reasons Claiming Social Security at 67 Is the Smartest Move You Could Make Original
Retiring at age 67 to claim Social Security is often called a smart money move for seniors because it is the full retirement age (FRA) for people born in 1960 or later. Waiting until full retirement age means that you'll receive 100% of your calculated benefit rather than a permanent reduction of up to 30%. However, it is not the best choice for everyone.
The 1 Thing All Retirees Must Do Before Claiming Social Security Benefits in 2026 Original
Claiming Social Security is one of the most permanent financial decisions you will make in retirement. Once you file, your monthly benefit is largely locked in for life and could lead to one of the most surprising retirement mistakes. Even small timing mistakes can reduce your income for decades. Before you claim Social Security benefits in 2026, you need to understand your full retirement age and how your benefits change if you claim early or delay filing.
4 Social Security Changes in 2026 That Are Hitting Boomers Where It Hurts Original
If you're already collecting Social Security or getting ready to file, even small rule changes can lead to surprising retirement mistakes. When you depend on a fixed income, modest adjustments can make it harder to cover all of your bills. In 2026, several Social Security updates are eating away at seniors' purchasing power, leading to larger withdrawals from retirement accounts or cuts to everyday spending for many baby boomers.
This Is the Average Social Security Benefit for Someone Age 82 Original
By the time you reach age 82, Social Security is often one of the most important sources of retirement income. As you draw down your investments and health care expenses rise, a predictable monthly income matters more than ever. Understanding what the typical benefit looks like at this age can help you make the right moves to keep your retirement strategy on track.
A Quiet 2026 Social Security Update May Catch Retirees Off Guard Original
Most Social Security coverage focuses on headline changes like annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs), which affect how much more seniors can expect to receive each month. However, quieter program updates involving earnings limits, taxation exposure, and benefit administration tend to receive far less coverage, even though they can be more impactful to senior benefits than annual COLA increases.
The 1 Social Security change you probably missed this year
Lee Huffman Most retirees pay close attention to big Social Security headlines, such as cost-of-living adjustments or changes to maximum benefits. Those updates are easy to spot and widely reported. But smaller technical rule changes often receive far less attention, even when they directly affect your retirement plan . In 2026, one of those quieter changes could make a meaningful difference if you continue working while collecting Social Security benefits.
The 1 Social Security Change You Probably Missed This Year
Most retirees pay close attention to big Social Security headlines, such as cost-of-living adjustments or changes to maximum benefits. Those updates are easy to spot and widely reported. But smaller technical rule changes often receive far less attention, even when they directly affect your retirement plan. In 2026, one of those quieter changes could make a meaningful difference if you continue working while collecting Social Security benefits.
Social Security Overpayments Are Rising - And Some Retirees Are Shocked Original
Opening a letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) stating that you've been overpaid and now must repay the money can feel alarming, no matter how well you've prepared for retirement. You've relied on those Social Security benefits for months or years, and assumed that the deposits were correct. Suddenly, you're told you owe money back, but you may not have extra money available. For retirees living on a fixed income, that kind of notice can create immediate stress.
Dave Ramsey’s Hard Truth About Social Security That Retirees Don’t Like Original
Dave Ramsey has built a national following by saying what many financial professionals won't. His approach is blunt, direct, and often uncomfortable, yet it is often the advice that his followers need to avoid money mistakes. When Ramsey talks about Social Security, emotions run high as people get the advice they need versus what they want to hear.
Who Really Benefits From Trump’s Social Security 'Senior Bonus' in 2026 Original
During the 2024 campaign, President Donald Trump pledged to reduce or eliminate federal taxes on Social Security benefits. While taxes have not been eliminated completely for all seniors, many retirees qualify for an additional deduction that can reduce or eliminate taxes on Social Security benefits. This "senior bonus" is a welcome relief for retirees living on a fixed income who want to maximize their senior benefits.
Social Security Is Making a Major Change Next Week Original
Major changes are coming to Social Security on March 7, 2026. If you rely on Social Security benefits to fund your retirement or you plan on filing for benefits soon, you need to pay attention to these changes. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is centralizing appointment scheduling and allowing workloads to shift between offices to reduce backlogs.
Just One Social Security Move Could Add $100s to Your Monthly Check Original
Small increases in monthly retirement income can feel surprisingly powerful when you're living on a fixed budget. In a world of uncertain investment returns, wouldn't you like to know how to guarantee an extra $100, $200, or even $300 per month? While most investment returns are not guaranteed, there is one Social Security move that could add $100s to your monthly check.
Why Social Security Sometimes Turns Off Payments Without Much Warning Original
Many seniors count on Social Security deposits to be the bedrock of their retirement plan. It helps to cover essential spending like rent, groceries, utilities, and medical costs. When those checks go missing, it can have a devastating impact on their budget. What surprises many retirees is that Social Security payments can be suspended or stopped quickly with little advance warning.
Research Shows This Is the Best Age to Claim Social Security in 2026 Original
Choosing when to claim Social Security is one of the most important decisions you make to maximize your retirement benefits. When you claim too early, you permanently lock in lower monthly benefits. However, the longer you wait, the more your checks grow. Learn about the best age to claim Social Security, how benefits are calculated, and how longevity puts the numbers in your favor.
This Is the Worst Age to Claim Social Security - And It Can Cost You Thousands Original
Claiming Social Security as soon as it becomes available seems like a good choice. At 62, many seniors feel relieved to finally tap into the program after decades of having taxes deducted from their paychecks. For many retirees, uncertainty around health, job stability, market volatility, or fears about future benefit cuts can make early claiming feel like the safest move, even though it could be a surprising retirement mistake.
The 1 Social Security change almost everyone missed this year
Lee Huffman Most people assume that when Social Security changes, the news is everywhere. Cost-of-living adjustments get headlines. Trust fund debates dominate cable news. New claiming rules tend to spark plenty of chatter. But there is one Social Security change that almost everyone missed in 2026, and it is especially important to set yourself up for retirement . This year is the final step before full retirement age becomes 67 for all future retirees.
Middle-Class Retirees Are Glad They Didn’t Ignore This Social Security Advice Original
Seniors hear a lot of advice about retirement, but it can be hard to tell what is helpful from what does more harm than good. Some decisions, like claiming Social Security benefits at 62, may seem good at the time, but can substantially reduce your retirement income. Some middle-class retirees are genuinely glad they learned what really works so they could make the right moves with their money. Learn more about the Social Security decisions that paid off and why those moves worked.
The 1 Social Security Change Almost Everyone Missed This Year Original
Most people assume that when Social Security changes, the news is everywhere. Cost-of-living adjustments get headlines. Trust fund debates dominate cable news. New claiming rules tend to spark plenty of chatter. But there is one Social Security change that almost everyone missed in 2026, and it is especially important to set yourself up for retirement. This year is the final step before full retirement age becomes 67 for all future retirees.
7 Social Security spousal rules that could cost couples money in 2026
Lee Huffman Many couples assume Social Security spousal benefits are straightforward. In reality, the rules are packed with fine print. Small misunderstandings can quietly reduce monthly checks and, over time, cost tens of thousands of dollars in lifetime income. As you approach retirement, understanding how these rules affect spousal benefits matters more than ever. Here are seven Social Security spousal rules you need to know to avoid money mistakes .
Dave Ramsey calls this common Social Security advice 'dumb'
Lee Huffman Dave Ramsey has never been subtle, and provocative language is part of his brand. Yet, his straightforward messaging and brash personality are often why his advice spreads so widely. When Ramsey says that "relying on the government to take care of you in retirement is dumb with a capital D," he's providing advice that most workers need to hear.
7 Social Security Spousal Rules That Could Cost Couples Money in 2026 Original
Many couples assume Social Security spousal benefits are straightforward. In reality, the rules are packed with fine print. Small misunderstandings can quietly reduce monthly checks and, over time, cost tens of thousands of dollars in lifetime income. As you approach retirement, understanding how these rules affect spousal benefits matters more than ever. Here are seven Social Security spousal rules you need to know to avoid money mistakes.
This Social Security Tax Rule Is Costing Retirees More Each Year Original
Many retirees assume Social Security benefits are tax-free in retirement. Discovering that you owe taxes on Social Security benefits when filing your tax returns leads to a rude surprise for millions of people each year. Thanks to rising incomes, cost-of-living adjustments on Social Security benefits, and required minimum distributions from retirement accounts, more retirees now owe federal income taxes on their Social Security benefits than ever before.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Says Social Security Isn’t Keeping Up With Reality Original
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, often called AOC, is a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives from New York. She is widely known for her role in shaping progressive economic policy, including debates around wages, health care, taxes, and retirement security. Social Security reform has been a consistent focus for her because she believes the program has failed to evolve and now falls short of setting oneself up for retirement.
Dave Ramsey Calls This Common Social Security Advice ‘Dumb’ Original
Dave Ramsey has never been subtle, and provocative language is part of his brand. Yet, his straightforward messaging and brash personality are often why his advice spreads so widely. When Ramsey says that "relying on the government to take care of you in retirement is dumb with a capital D," he's providing advice that most workers need to hear. Social Security is a solid part of any retirement plan, but smart money moves for seniors say that it shouldn't be your only form of retirement savings.
Here's the Biggest Social Security Benefit You Could Receive at 67 in 2026 Original
Waiting to retire until age 67 matters more than many people realize when it comes to Social Security benefits. For the millions of retirees, it represents full retirement age (FRA). This is the point at which you're entitled to 100% of your earned benefit. Very few retirees actually receive the biggest Social Security benefit at 67 because of how much they made over their careers and how many years they worked.
Here's the Biggest Social Security Benefit You Could Receive at 62 in 2026 Original
Understanding Social Security benefits is crucial as you approach retirement age. At 62, you reach an important milestone: the earliest age when you can begin claiming benefits. However, filing at this age comes with significant trade-offs that affect your financial security for life. The concept of the "maximum benefit" often sparks interest, but it's important to understand what this figure really means.
The Costly Social Security Mistake Many Boomers Don’t Realize They’re Making Original
Many Baby Boomers feel confident they did Social Security right. You worked for decades, paid into the system, and made what seemed like a sensible decision when it was time to claim. For retirees, that confidence is exactly what makes it one of the most surprising retirement mistakes that's easy to overlook. While claiming Social Security benefits early may seem like the right choice because you can't predict the future, you're permanently locking in lower benefits for the rest of your life.
The Costly Social Security Mistake Many Boomers Don’t Realize They’re Making
J.P. Morgan says the gold market will see a shift in its price target. If you have been watching gold this year, you know it has not traded like a …
These 8 States Will Charge You Taxes on Your Social Security in 2026 Original
When planning for retirement, you probably assumed your Social Security benefits would be safe from state taxes. For most retirees, that assumption is correct. The majority of U.S. states do not tax Social Security benefits at all. However, nine states tax Social Security benefits for the 2025 tax year, though one will fully phase out the tax for income earned in 2026.
5 significant Social Security updates in 2026 retirees need to know
Social Security is often viewed as a reliable part of retirement, but even small annual changes can affect your monthly income more than you'd expect. In 2026, updates to benefits, Medicare costs, income thresholds, and services could shape how much you take home, and how you access help. Here are the key Social Security changes for 2026 and how they could impact you. 1. Cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2026 The Social Security Administration adjusts benefits annually to account for inflation.
Show More
loading
Actions
Get in touch with Lee
Contact Lee, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack