Survivor Benefits

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When can my wife begin collecting spousal benefits?

Full question: Hi Martha. I just turned 59 yeas old and have been collecting SSDI and a private disability benefit for the past 3-4 years. My wife of 36 years will be 60 years old in early July. She is retired from New York State and collecting her retirement benefit from NYS. Unfortunately, due to…

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Can I collect a survivor benefit now before collecting my own benefit at 70?

Full question: I’m 67 and my financial advisor is working with me to delay collecting until age 70. My wife was collecting Social Security since 2018 until her passing two months ago. Can I claim surviving spouse benefits until 1 turn 70? Hi there, Yes, since you are over the age of 60 and your…

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How do I switch from survivor benefits to my own?

Original question: How do I switch to my Social Security benefits as I’m currently receiving my late wife’s? Hello, If you are currently receiving survivor benefits and wish to switch to your own retirement benefits, you will need to apply for retirement benefits separately. This can be done online, by phone, or in person at…

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Why was I denied survivor benefits?

Full question: I started my SS at 62, my ex-husband passed away. We were married 10 years. I was denied survivor benefits. Hello, Based on the information provided, as you were married to your ex-spouse for over 10 years and have started collecting your own Social Security benefits at 62, you should be eligible for…

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Am I eligible for survivor benefits?

Full question: After I turn 67 FRA can I claim my spousal support who passed away on August 9, 2023? Hi there, Yes, after you reach your Full Retirement Age (FRA) of 67, you can claim survivor benefits based on your late spouse’s record. Survivor benefits do not increase past the surviving spouse’s FRA, so…

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Do I need to fill out a new application if switching from survivor benefits to my own?

Hi there, If you are currently receiving survivor benefits and wish to switch to your own retirement benefits, you will need to apply for retirement benefits separately. This can be done online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. For a step-by-step guide on how to apply for Social Security retirement…

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