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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 63 and caring for my adult disabled child. Can I collect ex-spousal benefits now without penalty?
Full question: I am 63 caring for my adult disabled child full time. My ex spouse, his father, is 62 (we were married 19 years). Am I able to collect on his work record right now without early penalty (he is still working, not retired) ? Would that be at the 50% divorced spouse rate?…
Read MoreWill my foreign pension lower my American Social Security benefits? What about my spousal benefits?
Full question: If my spousal SS benefit is higher than SS benefit based on own contribution (> 40 credit) would a foreign pension of a country with a totalization agreement lower US social security benefits? Hi, That is a great question. Generally speaking, foreign pensions do not affect Social Security spousal and survivor dependent benefits….
Read MoreCan I receive a spousal benefit if I have a German pension?
Full question: I am English and live and work in Germany. I was married to a US citizen for 33 years. Will I be entitled to 50% if his social security when I retire at 67 ( 7 years from now) . I will receive a Small German Pension based on my mandatory contributions. Hi…
Read MoreMy ex-spouse recently died. Can I switch from ex-spousal benefits to survivor benefits based on his record?
Full question: I received my ex-husbands social security until mine was more than what I was entitled to with his. He died a few months ago and my disabled adult child got an increase in her social security. Am I allowed to collect survivor benefits since she lives with me and I take care of…
Read MoreIs there an income limit if my spouse applies for spousal benefits?
Full question: Is there an income limit if spouse age 63 applies for spousal benefits from spouse who is also 63 receiving disability SS? Hello, Yes, the income limits for 2023 are $21,240 and $56,520 and above those limits, all benefits would begin to be reduced. If you are looking for more personalized advice, you…
Read MoreWill my two adult disabled children qualify for benefits from my earnings record?
Full question: I have two adult disabled children, both were born with disabilities. I’m getting close to retirement, will they be eligible to receive benefits from my earning record? Hello, Children who are disabled before the age of 22 may be eligible to receive benefits, but the disabilities have to be recognized by the Social…
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