Social Security Benefits

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Can my wife claim her benefit now and switch to a higher spousal benefit later?

Full question: My wife, a retired teacher with a pension of $5000 a month, turned 62 in September last year. Could she claim her benefit now and then convert to a higher spousal benefit in 2028 when I turn 67? Hello, When your wife files for benefits, she will be deemed to be filing for…

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Can I claim survivor benefits now and switch to my own benefit later?

Full question: My wife passed in 2016 she was 53. I’m 63 and still working. Can I claim her benefits now and then claim mine at 70? Hi there, Yes, you are eligible to claim the survivor benefits based on her earnings record any time after age 60 and then switch over to your retirement…

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I was married 9.5 years. Am I eligible for ex-spousal child-in-care benefits?

Full question: I’m an ex-spouse, age 70, caring for our adult child with developmental disabilities. I was married 9.5 years. Am I eligible for spousal benefits because of caring for our child with developmental disabilities? Hi there, Unfortunately, you are not eligible for ex-spousal child-in-care benefits because your marriage lasted less than ten years. However,…

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Should I have an RSSA consultation?

Full question: I will be 70 in 4 months and will apply for benefits. I will continue having an income. What are the benefits from an RSSA consultation at this point? Hi there, You should apply three months prior to having benefits start at age 70. Your future earnings may raise your benefit amount if…

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Do I need to report my two marriages when applying for benefits?

Full question: I married my husband in 1972, divorced in January 2000 and remarried in Sept 2000. Do I need to report both marriages when applying for spousal benefits? Hi there, You are not entitled to ex-spousal benefits since you are now remarried. Therefore, the previous marriage is not necessary to be reported when you…

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My wife and I are Canadian, but my wife will be eligible for Social Security. Do I qualify for spousal benefits?

Full question: My wife and I are canadian citizens. She worked across the border and is soon to be eligible for social security. We have been married for 35 years and I am wondering if I qualify for spousal benefits Hello, Yes, a Canadian spouse of a Canadian U.S. worker can usually claim Social Security…

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