Survivor Benefits

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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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I am switching from survivor benefits to my own benefit in February. Will I still receive my survivor benefit in January?

Full question: I am 68 and switching from my survivor benefits to my personal benefit to take place in February (this month) but to be paid the following month, in March. Will I still receive the survivor benefit for January to be paid in February, or go a month without a check? Hi there, You…

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What are the current earnings test threshold limits?

Full question: Is it true that if I collect my husband’s survivor benefits at 60 I can only make $23,500 a year in my income or I have to pay $2.00 for every dollar over that amount? Hi there, If you claim the survivor benefits before your FRA, the SSA will withhold a certain amount…

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Can I claim survivor benefits now and switch to my own benefit later?

Full question: My wife passed in 2016 she was 53. I’m 63 and still working. Can I claim her benefits now and then claim mine at 70? Hi there, Yes, you are eligible to claim the survivor benefits based on her earnings record any time after age 60 and then switch over to your retirement…

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If you remarry, do you still get to collect a widows benefit?

Full question: If you remarry at 61 do you still get to collect widows benefit of your deceased husband? Hi there, Yes, if you are not remarried before age 60 (50 if disabled), you can collect survivor benefits based on your deceased’s earnings record. All the best, Martha

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Can I claim survivor benefits at age 62?

Full question: My husband died August 9, 2023. Can I claim survivor benefits at age 62? My husband was 67 when he died, he was collecting Social Security. Hello, Yes, you can claim your survivor benefits at 62 (50 if disabled). If you are eligible to receive both retirement benefits and survivor benefits, you can…

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