
Most people think of Social Security as money that covers the bills and not much else. But if you’ve planned well and find yourself with a little breathing room after covering the essentials, your monthly check can do more than just keep the lights on.
In 2026, retirees are dealing with higher interest rates, longer lifespans and more flexible retirement lifestyles than previous generations. For those who don’t need every dollar from their Social Security payments, there are some smart ways to put that extra income to work.