Social Security is the cornerstone of many Americans' retirement budgets. About half of all U.S. households with a member 65 or older receive at least 50% of their household income from the program, according to data compiled by the Social Security Administration. As such, the budgets and lifestyles of a huge number of Americans depend heavily on how large a benefit they get each month.

Unfortunately, there are pitfalls that could result in a disappointing amount of benefits if you don't understand the most important rules. Here are three ways you could miss out on some of the Social Security benefits you're entitled to.

Image source: Getty Images.

Continue reading

Source Fool.com