Webinar: Preparing for Medicare Eligibility & Understanding Your Options
When: On-Demand
Mary Lou Schar, RSSA©
"Your Social Security Guru"
Phone:
(678) 880-4552
Website:
A Bit About Me
Hello! I'm Mary Lou, and I'm dedicated to guiding individuals through the complexities of Medicare and Social Security. As a client advocate, I find immense fulfillment in ensuring my clients receive the care and support they need.
Outside of work, my heart belongs to my family—I'm a proud mother and grandmother who treasures every moment spent with them. I have a passion for genealogy which runs deep; I love unraveling the stories of my ancestors and discovering the roots that shape our identities.
I'm an avid reader, always seeking new knowledge and perspectives. Lifelong learning is a core value, and I believe there's always something new to discover and understand.
One of my greatest joys is creating beautiful things with my hands. Whether it's crafting intricate designs or making practical items, the process of creation brings me immense joy and satisfaction.
Overall, I thrive on helping others, cherishing family, delving into history, expanding my mind through reading, and expressing creativity through crafting. These passions define who I am and drive me to make a positive impact in both my professional and personal life.
Helpful tools and resources:
Social Security Tip:
Earnings Test
How the Earnings Test Works
The earnings test applies to people before reach their Full Retirement Age (FRA). Social Security withholds benefits if your earnings exceed a certain level and if you are below your FRA. There are two different tiers — a lower amount in years before the year you reach your FRA and a higher amount in the year you turn FRA. These exempt amounts generally increase annually.
Note: any benefits withheld while working are not "lost". Once you reach FRA, your monthly benefit increases permanently to account for the benefits that were withheld.
Exempt Amounts for 2026
Prior to reaching your FRA, the annual exempt amount is $24,480, or $2,040 monthly if you start after the start of the year. ) Earnings earned BEFORE you start collecting DO NOT count towards that earming limit.) For every $2 of income earned above of this amount $1 is deducted. For those reaching FRA this year, the annual exempt amount is $65,160, and $1 for every $3 of income earned above of this amount is deducted. Earnings in or after the month you reach FRA do not count toward the retirement test. This higher amount only applies to earnings made in months in the year you reach Full Retirement Age.
If you would like to speak with a financial advisor, please schedule with Clay Tucker with RPC. https://scheduler.zoom.us/william-tucker-calendar
