Can I collect a spousal benefit while my own retirement benefit grows?

Full question: If I apply for Social Security at FRA, can I get half of my wife’s Social Security and let mine grow? She is 6 years older. Hi there, Unfortunately no, you cannot claim a spousal benefit and later switch to your own retirement benefit. When you apply for benefits, the SSA looks at…

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How do I switch from spousal benefits to my own retirement benefit on the webiste?

Hi there, I am assuming you are asking about switching from a survivor benefit (based on your deceased spouse’s earnings record), not a spousal benefit (based on your living spouse’s earnings record.) If your own retirement benefit is a greater amount than the survivor amount, you should contact your local SSA office to make this…

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I 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…

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Is 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…

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Can I collect social security from my dead husband even if I work?

Hi there, Yes, you may be entitled to collect survivor benefits based on your deceased husband’s earnings record and still work. You must have been married at least 9 months and be at least 60 to collect survivor benefits and 62 to collect retirement benefits. If you are working, collecting benefits, and younger than your…

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Will SSA send a copy of my ex-spouse’s XML earning statement?

Original question: Ex-spouse needs her husbands XML earning statement, but they don’t talk to each other. Will Social Security send her a copy of the earning statement? Hi there, We often get questions about this topic. SSA will usually not provide the earnings record, but the ex-spouse is entitled to know their ex’s primary insurance…

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