There are many factors that average American workers weigh when making significant decisions about retirement.One of the first things people seek information about as they approach the possible end of their careers involves figuring out what age is best for them to take the bold step.

As 2024 draws to a close, we look at the changes Social Security beneficiaries and Medicare members will face in the new year and how to navigate them.

Social Security has been in the news a lot given the program's financial shakiness and the potential for benefit cuts. And whenever there's an election, Social Security tends to be a big issue for politicians to discuss.

Though President-elect Donald Trump has often promised to protect Social Security, he has not explained exactly how he would save the beloved – but financially troubled – entitlement program. Nor did he take any meaningful steps to shore up Social Security during his first term in the White House.

Despite knowing that they're giving up higher income, many pre-retirees plan to claim Social Security benefits before full retirement age.