Switching 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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Can my wife claim her benefit now and switch to a higher spousal benefit later?

Full question: My wife, a retired teacher with a pension of $5000 a month, turned 62 in September last year. Could she claim her benefit now and then convert to a higher spousal benefit in 2028 when I turn 67? Hello, When your wife files for benefits, she will be deemed to be filing for…

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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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My husband is about to file for benefits. I am already collecting mine. Can I wait to collect my spousal benefit?

Full question: Hi Martha. Had a case recently where a younger spouse with a small benefit claimed her own benefit at age 62. She will get a spousal benefit eventiually when her husband files for his. When her husband files, does she have to immediately start the spousal benefit, or can she wait a few…

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Can I switch from retirement benefits to ex-spousal benefits?

Full question: At age of 62 I start receiving my Social Security benefits under my work record (my ex- was not yet eligible, he was 61.5). Then at 71 can I switch to ex- and receive his, the full 50% SS benefits? (His benefits are 2.5 bigger than my. “Deemed filing” is NOT apply here….

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