This was an ugly month. My income was down due to earning next to nothing from Swagbucks and My Points. I just didn't have the energy earlier in the month. Since I am feeling better I'll be focusing back on this again for July. I decreased my monthly withdrawl from my retirement account to $1000 a month (down from $1200). I need to stretch this account out for as long as possible. I will be using my tax refund money to make up any difference every month between my income and expenses. I'm trying not to dip into my savings (emergency fund) for regular monthly expenses.

My grocery spending was really high, but it included food for my sister too. She was still here helping me for part of June. Take out was also high, it was just convenient when I wasn't really able to cook and my sister just didn't want to! My health expenses were also up a bit as I had a few co-pays for doctor's visits. Next month should look better.

On the health front, I am feeling better and have finally been cleared to drive! I still can't lift anything and have to be careful with a lot of bending but I can at least get out of the house. Freedom! I do still tire easily but my doctor told me that it would just take some time to get my full energy back. 

Back in March, I applied for the Homeowners Property Tax Credit offered through my county. This is an income based program. I was informed that this year I will be receiving a credit of $1,332.82. They apply it directly to my property tax bill and I pay the remainder.  Our property tax billing cycle runs from July1-June 30 so I'll be receiving the bill sometime around July 1st. This is a huge help for low income residents. Even with the credit I estimate I will still be paying close to 2k.

I've been thinking a lot lately about when I want to start drawing Social Security. My full retirement age is 67, and I am currently 62. I always planned to wait until 67, but I may just start at 65 to coincide with switching to Medicare. I know that the monthly amount grows the longer I wait, and I routinely review my estimates through my SSA online account. 

I had sometimes considered going back to work only part time, but that is completely off the table now due to health reasons. My current income is very low, and while I am OK with living on a very tight budget, and feel that I am living a happy life, it would be nice to not struggle quite so much. My income when I take SS at 65 will almost double from what I am living on now. Waiting another 5 years until I am 67 just feels very long. I will keep mulling it over.

I hope everyone has a good upcoming weekend!