Publisher i30 Media has released updated second editions of Social Security In 30 Minutes, Volume 1: Retirement Benefits and Social Security In 30 Minutes, Volume 2: Disability Benefits. The two-volume set by author Emily Pogue aims to help readers and family members better navigate the complex rules governing the government-run insurance programs and maximize the benefits that are available to them.
As of 2024, more than 65 million Americans receive Social Security benefits. They include people who are disabled or retired, as well as the family members of those who are disabled, retired, or deceased. This assistance is divided into two primary programs:
- Retirement benefits
- Disability benefits (SSI and SSDI)
Within these programs are subgroups of benefits designated for qualified survivors, spouses, children, ex-spouses, and sometimes parents.
Both volumes have been updated with the latest information from the Social Security Administration, including cost-of-living adjustments, income thresholds, and eligibility requirements.
“What sets this volume apart is its straightforward approach,” says NetGalley reviewer J. Kromrie. “Pogue employs plain English and practical examples, making the content accessible to readers regardless of their financial literacy level.”
Expert author on Social Security
Author Emily Pogue worked for 12 years in the human services field, coordinating services and performing case management for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“I was once new to Social Security, and I understand the paralyzing fear people feel when faced with complicated formulas, a slew of obscure terms and acronyms, and pages and pages of rules,” Pogue states in the introduction. “While the system may be unfamiliar, it is reassuring to know that at the end of the day, millions of people manage to successfully apply for benefits every year.”
Social Security In 30 Minutes is designed to help ease the way, by explaining in plain English how Social Security works, how to apply for benefits, and what recipients and potential recipients need to do to maximize benefits and troubleshoot common problems. For instance, volume 1 makes a point of illustrating the cost of taking retirement benefits too early, while volume 2 goes over the many programs that can help SSI and SSDI recipients return to work (if they are able) and still receive disability benefits.
The paperback retail price is $14.99 while ebook editions are available on the Amazon Kindle and other devices for $7.99.
Social Security In 30 Minutes is available in ebook, paperback, and hardcover editions on socialsecurity.in30minutes.com. The companion website also contains links, blog posts, and additional resources relating to Social Security.
About the author
Emily Pogue worked for 12 years in the human services field, coordinating services and performing case management for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She has since joined the finance world and works as a writer, creating copy for websites, magazines, and small businesses around the U.S. Social Security in 30 Minutes Vols. 1 & 2 are Pogue’s first published books and are dedicated to the amazing people she spent so many years working with. Pogue lives in South Dakota with her husband and son.
About In 30 Minutes guides
i30 Media is the publisher of In 30 Minutes guides – “Quick guides for a complex world.” Thousands of readers turn to In 30 Minutes guides to understand mildly complex topics, ranging from genealogy to software. The tone is friendly and easy to understand, with step-by-step instructions and lots of examples. For more information about the series, visit in30minutes.com
The Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) last week announced that Acid Reflux & Heartburn In 30 Minutes: A guide to acid reflux, heartburn, and GERD for patients and families has been named the recipient of a gold Benjamin Franklin award for excellence in publishing. Publisher i30 Media Corporation accepted the award at IBPA’s annual conference and award ceremony in Chicago.