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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.
Can my spouse get an adjustment to her benefit since I have now filed for my benefits?
Full question: My spouse, born in 1957, started drawing Social Security benefits at age 62.5 in 2019. She is getting benefits based upon her own work record. I (husband) born in 1956, will start benefits in Jan 2024 (approved). Now that I have filed, can she get an adjustment to her benefit based upon her…
Read MoreWill my wife be eligible for survivor benefits if she moves back to her country of origin?
Full question: As a U.S. citizen who is eligible for Social Security, would my wife of 7 years, who is a legal permanent resident of the U.S., be eligible for Social Security survivor benefits if she were to decide to move back to her country of origin? Hi there, If your wife qualifies for Social…
Read MoreHow do I stop paying for Medicare Part D?
Full question: My husband is 82.5 years old. He retired a few months before his 65th birthday. Since that time, he has been paying additional money for Medicare Part D. How can we stop these deductions/payments? Hi there, Your husband may be paying additional money due to the Medicare Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). This…
Read MoreHow do I switch from my ex-spouses benefits to my own benefits now that I’m 70 years old?
Hi there, We recommend that you call or set up a meeting with your local SSA office to make sure the transition goes smoothly. If you have already turned 70, you can request retroactive benefits back to age 70 for up to 6 months. Note that if you request retroactive back to before 70, your…
Read MoreWas I misinformed by a Social Security Administration representative?
Full question: I changed from surviving widow to individual in August 2023. The amount was deferred back to January 2023. I was told the correct increase would be received starting January 2024. I haven’t received the increase yet. Was I misinformed by Social Security representative? Hi there, Not necessarily, but I am not sure we…
Read MoreCan I work with an RSSA in a different state?
Full question: My and I are entering the retirement phase of our life. My wife is 64 and I am 62. We are both still working. We live in NC and we are interested in receiving a consultation in preparation and strategies to applying for our SSA benefits. But I am cautious instead focusing on…
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