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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Can my ex-wife claim at 62 then suspend so I can collect an ex-spousal benefit based on her earnings record?

Full question: I am divorced, was married for over 10 years and did not remarry. Can my ex-wife at 62 claim and suspend so I can collect 50% of her benefit? And does that effect her benefit? Hello! The ability to file (claim) and suspend Social Security retirement benefits was phased out for couples and…

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Can my wife and I use the restricted application filing strategy?

Full question: I was born in 1953 and my wife was born in 1958. I would like to wait to start collecting until age 70 in 2023. Can we use the restricted application filing strategy? Hi there! Yes, you may be able to use this claiming strategy. Since your wife is 62 in 2020, she…

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