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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.

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My friend recently got widowed. She is still working. Will her income affect her survivor benefits?

Full question: My friend recently got widowed and her late husband had been receiving SS benefits. My friend is still working, will her income affect her survivor benefits being taxed ? Hi there, If your friend is still working and younger than her full (normal) retirement age – FRA, (between 66 and 67 depending on…

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My wife turns 70 in May. What month should she apply for Social Security?

Full question: My wife will turn 70 in 2024, May 21. In what month should she apply for SS? Are there any other considerations that may help her maximize her benefits. I am the husband, age 76. I am currently on SS. Hi there, Your wife can start the online application 3 months prior to…

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I have a foreign pension and I have 36 US work credits. Am I eligible for Social Security?

Full question: If I have 36 points in US Social Security, and have a pension from European countries that have totalization agreement with US, will I avoid the WEP if I DON’T fulfill the 10 year rule/40 points minimum, or will I be not eligible for US pension at all? Hi there, If you do…

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Do I qualify for ex-spousal survivor benefits?

Full question: Hello, my son received survivors benefits until the age of 19. I also received survivor’s benefits due to be the ex-spouse caregiver of my son, but my portion stopped when my son turned 16. My son is now 21 and was just approved for DAC disability. Would I qualify to receive payment again…

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Where does Social Security get the money to pay benefits other than taxes?

Full question: From where does Social Security get the money to pay benefits (other than payroll taxes and income taxes on those very benefits)? I’ve heard 2 stories: one is there are OASI and DI Trust Funds that contain the $2 trillion balance in cash (and thus Soc Sec pulls its payroll/income tax shortfall from…

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How do I switch from spousal benefits to my own benefits at age 70?

Hello, We recommend that you contact your local SSA office which you can find here. Then set up an in-person meeting or phone appointment. Contact them several months prior to your 70th birthday. Best of luck, Martha

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