Social Security Benefits

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My wife has a pension. Can she still collect a spousal benefit?

Full question: We are married and both collecting Social Security benefits. My benefit is substantially more than hers. Can she collect a spousal benefit (is it 50%?) while I am living and still receive and receive (is it 75%) of my benefit at death? My wife has reduced benefits due to municipal employment.  Hi there,…

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How do I switch from a spousal benefit to my own?

Full question: When I retired in October 2019, I applied for spouse’s benefits at that time which would continue until age 70. I turned 70 on October 29, 2023. How do I make the change from collecting spouse benefit to my own benefit. Thank you for your assistance. Hi there, We recommend that you contact…

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How do spousal benefits work?

Full question: I am 62 (January 1962) and my spouse is 69 (March 1955). I am still working and doing quite well (>175K per year). She has not started withdrawing her SS yet. How is her portion determined on my SS when I have not retired yet? Is she better off receiving the 130.67% at…

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I am 58 and my wife is 50. We have a disabled son. What benefits (if any) are we eligible to collect?

Full question: I am 58 (turn 59 in December), and my wife is 50. We have a disabled/autistic child who is 7. My wife is suffering from numerous health issues most of which are attacking her immune system. Consequently, she is unable to provide consistent care for our son. She applied for SS Disability, but…

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Am I eligible for a survivors benefit?

Full question: I was widowed 19 years ago. My wife was 57 at the time of her death. I began collecting Social Security payments at age 62. I am now 77 and have been told I may be eligible for a widows benefit as my wife had paid into the system for many years. Can…

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My spouse passed away at 39. She worked for more than 10 years. What can I expect from Social Security for me and my children?

Full question: My spouse passed away at only 39 years old. She has worked full and part time for more than 10 years. What can I expect in Social Security insurance benefits for myself and our 5 children? Hi there, This is a very important question and has a number or rules that apply to…

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