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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Should I switch from my Survivor benefit to my own Social Security retirement benefit?

Full question: I currently receive Survivor benefits and I’m wondering what my own Social Security benefit would pay. I am 65 and full retirement age is 66+4. Should I wait until I’m 70 to collect my own and will I ever be able to collect 100% of deceased husbands? Hi there, If you are collecting…

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Does my wife need to wait until her FRA to receive the maximum spousal benefit?

Full question: I understand my wife can receive half my Social Security benefit, as her Social Security benefit. For her to receive the maximum amount this does she need to wait until her FRA? I am 3.5 years older than her and will reach my FRA mid-2023. Thanks. Hello, If your wife is not entitled…

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How do I apply for Social Security at 62 and how long will it take to start receiving payments?

Full question: When I turn 62, how do I start my Social Security benefit? And how long after applying for benefits, will it be direct deposited? Hello, When you are ready to begin collecting benefits you should always apply 2-3 months prior! Once you apply for benefits, it usually takes the Social Security Administration 4…

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When should I apply for my Social Security benefits?

Full question: I will be 62 in 8 months, when should I apply for Social Security? Hi there, Everyone has a unique situation when it comes to collecting Social Security. There are many factors to consider when deciding the best time for an individual to file for benefits including, but not limited to life expectancy,…

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Do I already need to be collecting benefits to receive the cost-of-living adjustment?

Full question: Is it preferable to start collecting as of December 2021 rather than March 2022 in order to qualify for the 5.9% cola increase? Hello, For retirees who are already collecting benefits prior to January of a given year, they will automatically see an increase come January for the Cost-Of-Living. However, those who are…

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