TSCL is highly concerned about the Totalization Agreement since it would likely add billions in costs to Social Security and drain Social Security benefits from American citizens who retire in the future. The Agreement would also increase exponentially the number of foreign workers claiming Social Security benefits. Social Security law currently allows non-citizens, who at some point obtain work authorization and a valid Social Security number, to claim benefits. Under current policy, Social Security uses all earnings regardless of a workers' legal status at the time the work was performed, to determine entitlement to benefits - including earnings while working illegally in the U.S. Such work could have been done while using an invalid or even fraudulent Social Security number. Several Members of Congress have introduced legislation that would prevent the Totalization Agreement from moving forward and that would give Congress more oversight over Totalization agreements with other nations. In addition, anti-Totalization legislation opposes Social Security benefits going to those who worked in the United States while illegal..TSCL agrees that legislative action is needed soon in order to avoid harsh benefit cuts for Social Security beneficiaries. In the months ahead, we will continue to advocate tirelessly for legislation like the Social Security 2100 Act, which would strengthen the financing of the program for decades to come while also strengthening benefits for those who depend on them the most. For progress updates, follow TSCL's legislative team on Twitter, or visit the Legislative News section of our website..Tax Planning? Medical Expense Deduction Becomes Less Generous in 2019.Despite the continued standoff on Capitol Hill, Social Security and Medicare beneficiaries should rest assured that their benefits will not be impacted by the ongoing shutdown. Both Social Security and Medicare are "mandatory" programs, which means that benefits will go out in full and as scheduled regardless of the federal government's operating status. In addition, the administrative offices for both programs are fully funded and are currently operating normally, so those applying for benefits should not see any delays in their requests..You receive a call that instructs you to press a number on your telephone keypad to learn how you can receive a Medicare-covered back brace. A live agent comes on the line and asks for your personal information, including your name and Medicare number to determine if you are eligible. Fraudulent suppliers and providers steal your information and use your Medicare number to submit phony claims to Medicare, even if you never order a thing..Will income thresholds that subject Social Security benefits to taxation be adjusted so that fewer beneficiaries will be subject to taxes on their Social Security in the future?.On Thursday, the Supreme Court announced its 4-4 decision on a challenge to President Obama's immigration orders, which were released back in 2014 with the intent of halting the deportations of nearly 5 million undocumented immigrants. The split decision means the lower court's ruling is left in place, and the executive orders will not take effect..Over the past decade, there has been no COLA at all three times - in 2010, 2011, and 201In 2017 the COLA was just 0.03%. The 2021 COLA of 1.3% is one of the lowest COLAs ever paid. TSCL feels this is a clear sign that the inflation adjustment for Social Security benefits is failing the very people it was designed to protect..TSCL would like to remind you to contact your Members of Congress while they are in their home states and districts. Many Senators and Representatives will attend local events or schedule town hall meetings throughout the August recess. We encourage you to approach them and request their support for fair cost-of-living adjustments, Totalization agreement reform, and other key issues.
