Social Security Benefits

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Am I eligible for ex-spousal benefits as sole caregiver of our disabled child?

Full question: I am the full time caregiver of our disabled 21 year old – we were together for 13 years, married for 9.6 legal and 3 years common law, divorced in 2008 and he has not helped or seen disabled child since. He has just retired – 21 year old disabled daughter is receiving…

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I am 70 and still working. How much income can I earn while collecting benefits?

Full question: I am 70 years old and I am working how much can I make in 2022 and 2023? I will be applying for Social Security benefits this month. Hello, There are two earnings limits that retirees need to be aware of before collecting while continuing to work. The lower limit is $19,560 which…

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How does earned income affect Social Security benefits?

Full question: I turn 62 in January 2023 and want to collect Social Security. I have earned $55,000 in 2022. How will that affect my benefit in 2023? Hello, If you have earnings in 2022, but do not file until 2023, your earnings for 2022 will not impact your benefits. However, if you decide to…

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My wife is eligible for Railroad Retirement and Social Security. What are her options?

Full question: My wife is getting Railroad Retirement and is receiving $1,423 a month. Her Social Security statement says that she is eligible for $2,309 a month under Social Security. Can you please tell us what her options are if any at all? Thank you. Hello, Railroad retirement benefits and Social Security claiming strategies can…

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Will the COLA increase my benefits even if I wait to collect them?

Full question: I am 67 & 2 months. My expected earned benefit will increase by about 8% if I wait until Jan 2023 to claim my benefit. Will my benefit also be increased by the expected 8% + COL ? In other words, would I receive both increases? Hi there, Yes! After Full Retirement Age,…

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Should my wife claim her Social Security benefits now or later and what about her spousal benefits?

Full question: I am 70 and deferred claiming until now, receiving my first check this month. My wife turns 62 this December and we’re trying to determine whether to claim hers at that time or how advantageous it might be to have her wait until 67. Not sure how the spousal benefits rules impact this….

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