Without Social Security, millions of Americans would be living below the poverty line. With it, many don't -- even though the average monthly retirement benefit of $1,975 (as of December) is not all that huge.

Some retirees find themselves going back to work. Rising financial costs force some people back to work, while others still want to be a part of a work community. Working also provides a sense of purpose for many people,

Learn about the key types of employer-sponsored retirement plans, tax-advantaged IRAs and Social Security benefits.

Older Americans get choices when it comes to claiming Social Security. The earliest age you can file for benefits is 62, and waiting until full retirement age means avoiding a reduction in your monthly paycheck. You can also delay Social Security past full retirement age for a larger benefit each month for life.

The first round of February’s Social Security payments, worth up to $5,108 for the highest-income earners who retire at age 70, will go out to the first group of retirees in seven days. Here is all you need to know about this month’s Social Security payments,

Tens of millions of Americans rely on Social Security benefits for a substantial portion of their retirement income. Not only is Social Security a valuable source of retirement income, with the average retired worker receiving about $1,975 per month, but it is also the only inflation-protected source of income many retirees have.