Social Security Pay

Q How can I learn what Social Security might pay me in retirement

— J.J., Knoxville, Tenn.

A The Social Security Administration (SSA) regularly mails out a record of your earnings history along with estimates of the benefits you may qualify for now or later. If you haven't seen yours, you can submit Form SSA-7004, "Request for Social Security Statement." You'll find an electronic version of this form online at the SSA Web site at www. ssa.gov (look under "Forms"), or call the SSA at 800-772-1213.

Get more guidance on how to retire well at www.fool.com/retirement/index. aspx.

Q How can I put money into mutual funds and individual companies?

— R.B., West Palm Beach, Fla.

A You can invest in most mutual funds either through an account you set up at a brokerage, and/or through the mutual fund's parent company (such as Vanguard or T. Rowe Price). Some funds have small minimum initial investment requirements, such as $500 (compared with $10,000 or more for other funds). A good place to look up mutual fund track records, fees and phone numbers is www.morningstar.com. Remember that index funds such as ones that track the S&P 500 are the best funds for many of us. Learn more at www.indexfunds. com and www.fool.com/mutualfunds/ mutualfunds.htm.

To open a brokerage account, first choose one that suits your needs. Then fill out an application and mail it in with a check. Through it, you can buy and sell shares of stocks, mutual funds and more. For guidance on finding a good brokerage, visit www.broker.fool.com.

Finally, consider using dividend reinvestment plans ("DRIPs"), which let you invest in companies with as little as $50 or less per month. Learn more at www. fool.com/School/DRIPs.htm and www. dripinvestor.com.

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