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Social Security Matters

Dear Rusty: My wife and I have a Medicare Advantage Plan, and we do not use Medicare for our claims. However, we still have the Medicare premium deducted from our Social Security checks. Is this correct? Signed: Wondering

A note from the Tonkawa superintendent...

As citizen leaders, individual school board members face complex and demanding challenges. Yet few people fully understand the scope and far-reaching implications of board members’ responsibilities. All Oklahoma citizens should recognize the vital contributions of these men and women and focus attention on the crucial role these elected public officials play in the education of our children.

“New Year Inventory”

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The New Year is when we take stock.

Buc Blab

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Hey everyone!

Social Security Matters

Dear Rusty: Social Security is deducting $297 per month for my Medicare Part B coverage. I have what’s called a “Windfall Elimination Provision” because I receive a pension from my former State employer. Prior to my 65th Birthday in July of this year, Social Security was paying me $764 per month, but when I turned 65 they reduced my amount to $467 per month. I read that the Part B premiums for 2021 are $148.50, so I wonder why I’m paying double that amount? Could it be that I never enrolled in Medicare Part B and they just automatically started deducting that amount? Some sort of penalty? If so, it seems kind of high. Can you explain why I’m paying so much for Medicare Part B? Signed: Curious About Medicare

“Stringing Lights”

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I walk around my neighborhood later in the evening these days, mostly so I can see the lights.

Time Machine

50 years ago, January 6, 1972

Social Security Matters

Dear Rusty: I recently took a big pay cut in my job. Several older friends have advised that I not continue to work much longer in this reduced paying job because it will affect my Social Security when I get ready to start drawing it. I’m currently 62 and thought about working until around 65. Friends are advising that my SS check will be smaller due to the decrease in pay. I have tried calling my local and National Social Security office and can’t get anyone to answer the phones to see if this is true. I don’t want to take this pay cut only to work (maybe) 3 more years and take a lower SS benefit when I can retire now and draw a bigger SS check. Advice please! Signed: Anxious About Social Security

“Bad Jokes”

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My Uncle Andy recently turned 90, and it was hard to imagine what a guy would like for his 90th birthday.

Sermonette

We have enjoyed a wonderful Christmas season. The lights, the decorations, the festive meals with family gatherings all make for a time that seems to rejuvenate us. It’s easy to enjoy this time when we celebrate Christ’s birth.