Social Security has been front and center this summer during the debt ceiling and debt crisis debate.

It's little wonder given that more than 50 million Americans receive monthly Social Security benefits.

In fact, for more than 20% of married couples and 40% of singles, Social Security is their sole source of income in retirement.

Although the government is anticipating a small cost-of-living (COLA) increase in 2012, it will likely be eaten up due to increases in Medicare Part B premiums, (an estimated three-fourths of beneficiaries receive both).

That's why it’s critical that you make the most of your benefits.

We're going to show you some little-known strategies that can help you maximize your Social Security benefits (the last one is a real doozy!).