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Your Social Security Questions Answered

Read answers to reader-submitted Social Security questions from Martha Shedden, NARSSA’s Co-Founder and Chief Learning Officer, and her team of experts. Submit your own question to Martha here.

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How do I switch from survivor benefits to my own?

Original question: How do I switch to my Social Security benefits as I’m currently receiving my late wife’s? Hello, 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…

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How do I receive my back pay from the Social Security Fairness Act?

Full question: I believe that I qualify for back compensation from the Social Security Fairness act. I have not received any back pay nor have I heard anything from the SSA. What should I do? Hi there, The Social Security Administration (SSA) began issuing one-time retroactive payments to affected beneficiaries starting February 25, 2025, covering…

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Why was I denied survivor benefits?

Full question: I started my SS at 62, my ex-husband passed away. We were married 10 years. I was denied survivor benefits. Hello, Based on the information provided, as you were married to your ex-spouse for over 10 years and have started collecting your own Social Security benefits at 62, you should be eligible for…

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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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