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Your Social Security Questions Answered

Read answers to reader-submitted Social Security questions from Martha Shedden, RSSA’s CLO, and her team of experts. Submit your own question to Martha here.

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Do you help those who are having technical issues with the SSA if authorized by the client to act on their behalf?

Hi there, While we aim to provide comprehensive assistance in understanding and navigating Social Security benefits, we must adhere to SSA regulations which prohibit us from accessing a client’s my Social Security account, even if authorized to act on their behalf. This is to ensure compliance with federal law and to protect both our clients…

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Why is Social Security withholding my benefits?

Full question: My boss earned $48,000 on a W2 and had a negative earning of $27,000 on a Schedule C for a new business he started. Does that take him above the maximum earnings? SS is withholding my benefits. Thank you for contacting us. I understand you’re concerned about how your boss’s earnings impact the…

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If my spousal benefit is reduced due to the earnings limit, will my daughter’s benefit increase?

Full question: I am 63 and drawing child-in- care benefits from my husband’s record. Because our 31 year old disabled daughter and I both draw from husbands record, the amounts are limited to the family maximum. If I earn over the earnings limit in 2025, and my benefits are cut, will our daughter’s benefits be…

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Am I eligible for survivor benefits?

Full question: After I turn 67 FRA can I claim my spousal support who passed away on August 9, 2023? Hi there, Yes, after you reach your Full Retirement Age (FRA) of 67, you can claim survivor benefits based on your late spouse’s record. Survivor benefits do not increase past the surviving spouse’s FRA, so…

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Do I need to fill out a new application if switching from survivor benefits to my own?

Hi there, If you are currently receiving survivor benefits and wish to switch to your own retirement benefits, you will need to apply for retirement benefits separately. This can be done online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. For a step-by-step guide on how to apply for Social Security retirement…

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Am I eligible for child-in-care spousal benefits?

Full question: I am divorced age 50 with minor children. My ex spouse is 66 so the children ages 11 and 13 are eligible for benefits too. As the ex do I have benefits as the kids mom and if so do the income thresholds apply? Hello, As the mother of your ex-spouse’s minor children,…

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