As you may know if you’ve been reading here for very long, from time to time I review financial rules of thumb – today I’ve got a bit of a twist on the “principles of pollex” concept:
Here’s a very interesting article that I found today that tells about some of the old, time-honored sage pieces of advice that aren’t necessarily true – for the time being.
Enjoy – I’ll be back next week!

Sterling Raskie, MSFS, CFP®, ChFC®
The latest in our Owner’s Manual series, A 401(k) Owner’s Manual, was published in January 2020 and is available on
A Medicare Owner’s Manual, is updated with 2020 facts and figures. This manual is available on
Social Security for the Suddenly Single can be found on Amazon at
Sterling’s first book, Lose Weight Save Money, can be
An IRA Owner’s Manual, 2nd Edition is available for purchase on Amazon. Click the link to choose the
Jim’s book – A Social Security Owner’s Manual, is now available on Amazon. Click this link for the
And if you’ve come here to learn about queuing waterfowl, I apologize for the confusion. You may want to discuss your question with Lester, my loyal watchduck and self-proclaimed “advisor’s advisor”.
Jim wrote: Medicare should be applied for at age 65 unless you’re covered by an employer’s plan…
Anne’s comment: I was wondering about if Social Security and Medicare are different programs; so I see they are; I will be sure to apply for Medicare @ age 65…I thank u Jim @!
If i decide to wait until i am 70 y. to apply for Social Sec. benefits and Medicare…
would I apply a few months before 70 th b day…? Tia Anne
I don’t want to miss the social security boat altogether either
Anne –
Yes, a few months before your 70th birthday would be the appropriate time to apply for Social Security if you’re hoping to get the maximum benefit. Medicare should be applied for at age 65 unless you’re covered by an employer’s plan.
jb