Can I receive a spousal benefit if I have a German pension?
Full question: I am English and live and work in Germany. I was married to a US citizen for 33 years. Will I be entitled to 50% if his social security when I retire at 67 ( 7 years from now) . I will receive a Small German Pension based on my mandatory contributions. Hi…
Read MoreMy ex-spouse recently died. Can I switch from ex-spousal benefits to survivor benefits based on his record?
Full question: I received my ex-husbands social security until mine was more than what I was entitled to with his. He died a few months ago and my disabled adult child got an increase in her social security. Am I allowed to collect survivor benefits since she lives with me and I take care of…
Read MoreIs there an income limit if my spouse applies for spousal benefits?
Full question: Is there an income limit if spouse age 63 applies for spousal benefits from spouse who is also 63 receiving disability SS? Hello, Yes, the income limits for 2023 are $21,240 and $56,520 and above those limits, all benefits would begin to be reduced. If you are looking for more personalized advice, you…
Read MoreCan I collect spousal benefits now and switch to my own benefits later?
Full question: Can I collect my ex husband’s Social Security now at age 66. We were married 20 years. Then switch to mine at 70 years old to get the most I can get? Hi there, Unfortunately, the answer is no. The “restricted application” in which you can take a spousal or ex spousal benefit…
Read MoreMy wife has a teaching pension. Is she eligible for spousal benefits?
Full question: My wife is a teacher in Texas and eligible for full teacher retirement. Can she earn partial SS benefits under myself as her spouse? Hi there, If your wife is collecting a “non-covered” pension from work that did not pay into Social Security, then yes, she would be affected by the Government Pension…
Read MoreIf I remarry someone younger than me and not at FRA, how will it impact our Social Security income?
Full question: I am currently widowed. I am still working, but would like to know if I retired at full retirement age and remarried a person that is not of retirement age, how it would impact Social Security income both now and in the future? Hi there, Re-marriage and Social Security can be complicated. You…
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