Hi there, Widows and Widowers may be eligible for survivor benefits from a previous marriage; however, the answer is not a simple one. In cases like this it is not always a one size fits all answer. Ex-spousal survivor benefits depend on the age you begin taking them, what your own benefit is, how long…

Full question: Martha, is it better if I wait until I’m 60 to collect off deceased ex-husband’s survivor benefits if I’m caring for our disabled adult son while I’m 59 years of age? Hi there, A survivor benefit can be taken as early as age 60. Deciding when to collect survivor benefits and your own…

Full question: If I switch from survivors benefits to my retirement benefits (age 67), what happens to the remaining unused survivor benefits? Hi there, When a retiree switches from a survivor benefit to their own retirement benefit, the survivor benefit will no longer be paid unless it is higher than the retirement benefit. If that…

Full question: When is the best time to get RSSA advice on retirement. I’m disabled and 62, my husband is 67 but plans on working until 70. Hellol, It is always best to consult with an RSSA sooner rather than later! Reason being is that you would not want to miss out on benefits if…

Full question: I have a client who is taking his Social Security at 70, this May. He has worked in the STRS system in Ohio, along with paying into Social Security in the private sector. His statement says $3788/month. He is currently receiving $7600/month from STRS. His wife has not accumulated her 40 quarters. Will…

Hello there, Social Security benefits are based on your highest 35 years of indexed earnings. You can find a benefit estimate on your Social Security account, but for more accurate results you can calculate your earnings. If you need assistance finding out what you will be eligible for and any rules that may impact your…