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Martha Shedden is RSSA’s President and Co-Founder. Read Martha’s responses to questions regarding Social Security. View all questions or browse by category. Submit your own question to Martha here.
I am switching from Railroad Benefits to my Social Security benefits. Will there be a delay in receiving my monthly payment?
Full question: I am switching from Railroad Benefits to my Social Security benefit at age 70. I understand my check will still come from SSA. Will I see it the same date as before or could my first check be delayed by the transfer? Hi there, We researched this topic and recommend that you also…
Read MoreIs there any risk to being separated, but not divorced?
Full question: My spouse and I have been separated for 20 years but not legally divorced. I am planning on applying for my Social Security benefits soon, I am still working but at full retirement age, almost 69 actually. Is there any risk because we are still legally married? Hi there, No, there is no…
Read MoreHow long is the waiting period after filing an SSA-1724 form?
Hello, There is no waiting period after filing an SSA-1724 form to claim amounts due in the case of a deceased beneficiary. Hope this helps! Take care, Martha
Read MoreHow will my UK pension impact my USA Social Security benefit?
Full question: Hi Martha, I am from the UK and retired at 62 here in the USA after 22 years of “substantial” earnings for Social Security benefit calculations. I am also eligible to collect a partial UK State Retirement Pension in 2025 for the years I worked in the UK (50% of current max). How…
Read MoreCan I collect social security from my dead husband even if I work?
Hi there, Yes, you may be entitled to collect survivor benefits based on your deceased husband’s earnings record and still work. You must have been married at least 9 months and be at least 60 to collect survivor benefits and 62 to collect retirement benefits. If you are working, collecting benefits, and younger than your…
Read MoreI don’t have 40 quarters of covered earnings for Social Security. What are my other options?
Full question: I am Single (Widower – wife was Homemaker – no payments to SS) aged 79yo and Social Security wont pay me retirement benefits because I have worked for 35 quarters and not 40 quarters. I did not complete the extra 5 quarters because of permanently caring for my wife during her illness (double…
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