Social Security Benefits

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Does the Social Security Fairness Act apply to this first time applicant for Social Security spousal benefit?

Full question: For a foreign born non-citizen legal immigrant at FRA who has accumulated over 40 credits of contribution from work in the USA and collected foreign pension from previous employment in a foreign country that does not have a totalization agreement with USA prior to moving to USA, does Social Security Fairness Act featuring…

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I have worked 5 years. Am I eligible for Social Security?

Hi there, Unfortunately, no. To be eligible for Social Security benefits, you must earn at least 40 credits by paying the Social Security payroll tax on your earnings. You can earn up to 4 credits per year, so it takes at least 10 years to become eligible. For personalized support, you can work with an…

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I am 62 and collecting SSDI. Can my husband, 63, collect a spousal benefit?

Hi there, No, he can’t collect spousal benefits now. Your disability benefits will be switched to retirement benefits at your full retirement age (67), then your husband can file and receive spousal benefits. All the best, Martha

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I turn my FRA at the end of May. Should I say I want to receive my benefits in May or June?

Full question: My full retirement age is May 30th 2025. How do I answer the question when do I want to start receiving my benefits. Do I put May or June? Hi there, I assume that you want to file your benefits at your full retirement age so you should put May, the month you…

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I am switching from survivor benefits to my own benefit in February. Will I still receive my survivor benefit in January?

Full question: I am 68 and switching from my survivor benefits to my personal benefit to take place in February (this month) but to be paid the following month, in March. Will I still receive the survivor benefit for January to be paid in February, or go a month without a check? Hi there, You…

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My wife’s benefits were subject to WEP and GPO. Can she apply for spousal benefits?

Full question: If my wife has qualified for Social Security benefits but it was subject to WEP and GPO, can she now apply for spousal benefits based on my earnings? My earnings are substantially higher than my wife’s. Hi there, The WEP and GPO rules were repealed by the Social Security Fairness Act on January…

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