The Pension Boards interviews the Rev. Dr. Don Wagner on his experiences navigating ministry, finances and retirement. Rev. Wagner currently serves as an Annuitant Visitor in the Illinois South Conference.
Social Security is relied on by millions of Americans and is the bedrock of the United States retirement system. In 2024, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA), almost 68 million Americans per month will receive a Social Security benefit, totaling about $1.5 trillion in benefits paid during the year. This retired workers, dependents, disabled individuals, and survivors of deceased workers. This large number indicates that Americans recognize the importance of Social Security for their financial well-being.
Help yourself understand Social Security and its benefits by reading these frequently asked questions.
As UCC clergy, lay workers, or caregivers, taking the time to track or manage multiple retirement accounts from previous places of employment can be confusing and time-consuming, especially when your primary focus is either on ministry or those under your care.
By consolidating your retirement accounts, it’s easier for you to track your retirement assets, contributions, and withdrawals, allowing for a more simplified way to manage your accounts in one place.
Using your credit card at a gas station pump or drive-up ATM is quick and convenient. However, despite retailers following Payment Card Industry (PCI) standards to protect your information, cybercriminals are finding ways to steal your information. Cybercriminals are using technology called “card skimmers” to read and record your card information in a matter of seconds. Although retailers regularly check for card skimmers, learning how to protect yourself at gas station pumps and ATMs should be a priority now more than ever.
When exposed to certain conversations, events or situations, many people experience “emotional triggers” that may remind them of something upsetting in their past. These triggers can spark strong emotional and physical feelings that may prompt people to respond or react in unhealthy ways, feeling tense, anxious, panicky, sad or angry, or having the urge to withdraw or lash out. Getting to know your triggers can help you learn better, healthier ways to respond. Try these suggestions: