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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 I receive SSDI benefits if I also receive a pension?
Full question: Two years ago, I left my job and took an early retirement with pension due to muscular dystrophy. My pension is half of what I made monthly when working and considered going back to work. I am at a point in my life due to my disease that I’m not able to go…
Read MoreWhat is the difference between ROTH IRA and TAXABLE IRA in the Social Security Calculator?
Hello, ROTH IRA funds are tax-free when withdrawn from accounts so are not included in the calculation of any income tax. They are therefore also not part of the calculation used to determine taxation of Social Security income. I hope this is helpful. Take care, Martha
Read MoreWill one lose the benefits for their disabled child if they don’t report income?
Full question: I pay a cleaning lady to clean my Airbnb. She does not report the income, afraid she will lose her Social Security she gets for her disabled child. Who can she speak to about what she can/cannot earn? Hi there, I am not sure how old her disabled child is and if they…
Read MoreI am switching from Railroad Benefits to my Social Security benefits. Will there be a delay in receiving my monthly payment?
Full question: I am switching from Railroad Benefits to my Social Security benefit at age 70. I understand my check will still come from SSA. Will I see it the same date as before or could my first check be delayed by the transfer? Hi there, We researched this topic and recommend that you also…
Read MoreIs there any risk to being separated, but not divorced?
Full question: My spouse and I have been separated for 20 years but not legally divorced. I am planning on applying for my Social Security benefits soon, I am still working but at full retirement age, almost 69 actually. Is there any risk because we are still legally married? Hi there, No, there is no…
Read MoreHow long is the waiting period after filing an SSA-1724 form?
Hello, There is no waiting period after filing an SSA-1724 form to claim amounts due in the case of a deceased beneficiary. Hope this helps! Take care, Martha
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