Wednesday, October 16
2024 SSI COLA Increase: Key Details for Beneficiaries
Social Security

2024 SSI COLA Increase: Key Details for Beneficiaries

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a 3.2% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2024, impacting Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients. This increase will help low-income individuals, including those over 65, blind, or disabled, manage rising living costs. What to Expect with the 2024 COLA Increase Beginning in December 2023, SSI recipients will notice a slight rise in their payments. Due to the New Year holiday, payments will be distributed earlier than usual, at the end of December. Here’s a breakdown of the expected changes: Category2023 Payment (Approx.)2024 Payment (Approx.)Monthly IncreaseAverage SSI Payment$698$720$22Individuals$914$943$29Couples$1,371$1,415$44Essential Person$458$472$14 How is COLA Calculated? The COLA is determined by th...
Man Arrested for Assault and Indecent Exposure at Clark College
Crime News

Man Arrested for Assault and Indecent Exposure at Clark College

A man was arrested following multiple disturbing incidents of trespassing, indecent exposure, and assault at Clark College in Vancouver, Washington. The man, identified as Nolen P. Sanchez, was taken into custody on Saturday after authorities linked him to a series of events that began earlier in the week. Sanchez now faces charges of sexual assault and indecent exposure, bringing renewed attention to campus safety concerns. Initial Incident: Unwanted Approach and Indecent Exposure The trouble started around 7 a.m. on Thursday when a female student reported a suspicious encounter. She informed campus security that she was followed by a man after disembarking from a bus near the campus. The man reportedly made inappropriate comments about her age, causing the student to feel uncomfort...
New SNAP Guidelines to Benefit 14,000 More Residents with $3,200 in Annual Support
Finance

New SNAP Guidelines to Benefit 14,000 More Residents with $3,200 in Annual Support

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, is set to provide additional financial relief to approximately 14,000 more residents, thanks to new guidelines. These changes, aimed at addressing growing economic inequalities and rising living costs, are particularly crucial for states like Hawaii, where the cost of living is notably high. Under the updated rules, more families will qualify for SNAP benefits, which provide up to $3,200 annually. The revisions to Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE) give states the flexibility to eliminate asset limits and raise income thresholds, allowing even households with savings or slightly higher incomes to qualify. This expansion is a significant step in reducing food insecurity for working-class families...
Rare Washington Error Coin Sold for $300: Do You Have One in Your Pocket?
US News

Rare Washington Error Coin Sold for $300: Do You Have One in Your Pocket?

Did you know that a Washington quarter in your spare change could be worth hundreds of dollars? A recent eBay auction saw a 1983 Washington quarter with a unique minting error sell for an incredible $300. It’s a reminder that rare coins, especially those with distinctive features, can be surprisingly valuable. Why Is This Coin So Special? The quarter in question was minted in Denver in 1983 and features a rare error: an offset stamp. This particular defect made the coin highly sought after by collectors. Minting errors like these are considered one-of-a-kind, increasing their worth significantly. How to Spot Valuable Washington Quarters If you're curious whether you have a valuable Washington quarter, here are a few tips for identification: Check for Errors: Look for offset...
2025 Social Security COLA Rise: What Beneficiaries Need to Know
Social Security

2025 Social Security COLA Rise: What Beneficiaries Need to Know

On October 10, 2024, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will announce the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), affecting over 70 million Americans. With inflation slowing in 2024, experts predict a modest COLA increase of approximately 2.5% to 2.6%. This adjustment will impact monthly payments for Social Security beneficiaries, ensuring that their benefits keep pace with the rising cost of living. How is COLA Calculated? The SSA calculates the COLA using the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). The agency compares the average CPI-W from the third quarter of the current year with the same period from the previous year. This percentage change determines the COLA, helping benefits retain their purchasing power despite inflation. To underst...
Is Your 25-Cent Coin Worth $600,000? How to Tell if You Own a Numismatic Treasure
US News

Is Your 25-Cent Coin Worth $600,000? How to Tell if You Own a Numismatic Treasure

Numismatics, the collection and study of coins, has grown into a lucrative hobby for many. Among the most sought-after finds is a 25-cent coin that could be worth an astounding $600,000. Imagine discovering that an ordinary-looking quarter in your collection is actually a rare treasure! Why Coin Collecting Is More Than Just a Hobby Coin collecting is not just about the potential for financial gain—it's a journey through history. Coins from different eras offer a tangible connection to the past, each telling a unique story. Among collectors, quarters minted with rare minting errors, historical significance, and pristine condition have become particularly valuable. But what makes this 25-cent coin so special? The $600,000 25-Cent Coin: A Closer Look This particular quarter, minte...
Discover If You Qualify for the $3,200 Aid Check Coming in October
Finance

Discover If You Qualify for the $3,200 Aid Check Coming in October

The Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program is offering a $3,200 stimulus check to its residents this year, providing much-needed relief for many families. The PFD, established to distribute oil and mineral wealth to Alaskans, serves as an important financial boost, especially during challenging economic times. Who is Eligible for the Stimulus? To qualify for the PFD stimulus check, individuals must be permanent residents of Alaska, meaning they have lived in the state for the entire previous calendar year. Temporary residents or newcomers do not qualify, as the program aims to reward those contributing to the local community and economy long-term. Additionally, those with a criminal record are ineligible for the stimulus check, ensuring that the funds are directed towards la...
Social Security COLA Increase for 2025: What Retirees Can Expect
Social Security

Social Security COLA Increase for 2025: What Retirees Can Expect

The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for Social Security benefits is expected to rise in 2025. This increase is crucial for millions of Americans who rely on these payments to manage their monthly expenses, particularly retirees and disabled citizens. Here's what you need to know about the upcoming COLA increase and how it may affect your benefits. What Is COLA and How Is It Calculated? The COLA is an annual adjustment to Social Security benefits based on the inflation rate, which reflects the rising cost of living in the United States. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) to calculate these adjustments. The 2025 COLA is projected to increase by around 2.56%, although the final figure will be confir...
Social Security Payments: October 2024 Schedule and What to Expect
Social Security

Social Security Payments: October 2024 Schedule and What to Expect

With October approaching, many Social Security recipients are wondering when their next check will arrive. Your exact payment date depends on factors like when you started receiving benefits and your birthdate. Here's a breakdown of the payment schedule and answers to common questions about Social Security benefits. October 2024 Payment Schedule For October 2024, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will follow the usual staggered payment schedule: October 3, 2024: For individuals receiving both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or those who started receiving benefits before May 1997. October 9, 2024: For beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th of the month. October 16, 2024: For beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th of the month. Octo...
SSDI Recipients to Receive Four Payments in October 2024: Key Details and Application Process
Social Security

SSDI Recipients to Receive Four Payments in October 2024: Key Details and Application Process

In October 2024, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients will receive payments on four different dates, depending on their eligibility and birthdate. These payments follow Social Security’s regular schedule but have specific guidelines based on individual circumstances, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI) eligibility. SSDI Payment Schedule for October 2024 The first SSDI payment in October 2024 will be on October 3, reserved for those who qualify for both SSDI and SSI and for individuals who have been receiving SSDI since before May 1997. The remaining SSDI recipients will receive their payments on three consecutive Wednesdays, depending on their birthdate: October 9: Recipients born between the 1st and 10th. October 16: Recipients born between the 11th...