Do I qualify for ex-spousal survivor benefits?

Full question: Hello, my son received survivors benefits until the age of 19. I also received survivor’s benefits due to be the ex-spouse caregiver of my son, but my portion stopped when my son turned 16. My son is now 21 and was just approved for DAC disability. Would I qualify to receive payment again…

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How do I switch from spousal benefits to my own benefits at age 70?

Hello, We recommend that you contact your local SSA office which you can find here. Then set up an in-person meeting or phone appointment. Contact them several months prior to your 70th birthday. Best of luck, Martha

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Should I apply for my own benefits now and then switch to spousal benefits at FRA?

Full question: Hi Martha. I’m a 62 yr old woman married 25 years. Divorced little over 10 years ago. Ex husband is 80 retired at full retirement age with max benefits. Neither of us remarried. His earnings much higher than mine. When is it best for me to apply for SS benefits now or when…

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My spouse has no earnings history. In the event of my death, will their spousal benefit switch to a higher survivor benefit?

Full question: If my spouse who has no earning history, applies (on my earnings) for reduced spousal benefits now and withdraws and if some thing happens to me before her FRA. The benefits be auto converted to survivor benefits, will benefit be ‘Recalculated’ at that time based on survivor benefits at higher level or will…

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Can I switch from survivor benefits to my own retirement benefits?

Full question: Can I collect survivor benefits from deceased ex-husband from age 60 until my FRA which is 67, and want to be sure that I can switch over as long as my own retirement benefits are higher. Is this true? Hi there, Yes, that is true. Survivor benefits may be collected as young as…

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How do I switch from a spousal benefit to my own benefit online?

Hi there, Go to www.ssa.gov and on the main page click on “online services” then select “apply for retirement benefits.” Since you are currently collecting benefits on your spouse’s record, you should be able to start a new application for retirement benefits under your own Social Security number. You may also use the SSA online…

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