Social Security Benefits

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Do I need to fill out a new application if switching from survivor benefits to my own?

Hi there, 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 your local Social Security office. For a step-by-step guide on how to apply for Social Security retirement…

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Am I eligible for child-in-care spousal benefits?

Full question: I am divorced age 50 with minor children. My ex spouse is 66 so the children ages 11 and 13 are eligible for benefits too. As the ex do I have benefits as the kids mom and if so do the income thresholds apply? Hello, As the mother of your ex-spouse’s minor children,…

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What will my wife’s spousal benefit be?

Full question: Hi Martha, I started my Social Security at 62 (am now 63) and took the reduced amount. My wife (62) is considering applying for spousal benefits as she has not contributed much to Social Security. Does she qualify for half of the full retirement benefit that I would have received at 67 (minus…

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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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