Original question: Will I be forced to apply for my own SS retirement benefits when I become eligible even though I am receiving SS Spousal benefits at the time?

Hi there,

You can only collect the higher of the benefits you are eligible to receive when when you apply.

So if you are currently collecting spousal benefits, the SSA determined at the time of your application that the spousal benefit was a higher amount than your retirement benefit.

If you continued to work and your retirement benefit increased to become the higher amount.

For personalized assistance, schedule a call with an RSSA here.

Take care,
Martha

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