What is going to happen to people like me , 60, a vet , unemployed, with no job or retirement in sight?

[dan]

Am I going to be able to collect my social security benefits, that I have put in for 42 years, at early retirement at the age of 62? I am unemployed at age 60 and partially disabled from working hard physically over the years. I am working self employed, handyman work, but with the cost of living rising I do know or have any answers what is going to happen to our economy, i.e. gas, groceries cost of living in general.

[Bank on it]

Your situation is more common than many realize. I'm sorry that after giving your time to the military... you have been left with these challenges.

Unfortunately - the loud minority has influenced our government - through legal means of getting 'tea partiers' elected. They are now being obstructionists, and under the guise of following their interpretation of our constitution, they are slashing programs that were designed to help veterans like you (and me), who have faithfully served our country.

They say that they want government out of their lives. However they forget who fought for their right to be free.

Bottom line - you currently have access to Veterans benefits - which vary in quality, quantity and funding from location to location. You CAN collect full SS benefits at 62 as long as you have completed 40 quarters of qualified employment, which it sounds as if you have.

As difficult as it may be, I would hold off on applying for SS benefits until you absolutely have to. Each month that you wait, will increase the benefit that is paid to you. You will recieve substantially more if you can wait until FRA (Full Retirement Age), which is probably age 66.

I would not be concerned about hyper-inflation. Continue to help others by being a handyman - gas and groceries will go up in price, so keep your wages in line with the cost of living. Market analysts do not predict inflationary pressure until (at least) @ 2014.

Do what you can to spend less. Perhaps you're driving a large truck, when a smaller version will give you the mobility that you need. Move into a lower-rent home, or down-size. Budget your spending and take advantage of discounts. And, I repeat that you should hold off on taking your SS as long as possible.

One more thought, attempt to retrain for another type of job that isn't as physically demanding. You are still a valuable person in society, and you deserve the best life possible.

good luck!