How do I switch from survivor benefits to my own retirement benefits?
Full question: I have active survivor benefits, will be turning 70 in March 2023 and would like to transition to retirement benefits, preferably online, need details on process. Hi there, The process of switching from a survivor benefit to your own retirement benefit can be completed in two ways, online or with the help from…
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 MoreCan I collect Social Security from my ex-husband?
Full question: Can I collect my ex-husband’s Social Security at 72, even though we were married for 17 years and I started collecting disability early and then when I became age to get my Social Security it switched over? Hi there, If you were married for at least 10 years, you could be eligible for…
Read MoreShould I switch from my Survivor benefit to my own Social Security retirement benefit?
Full question: I currently receive Survivor benefits and I’m wondering what my own Social Security benefit would pay. I am 65 and full retirement age is 66+4. Should I wait until I’m 70 to collect my own and will I ever be able to collect 100% of deceased husbands? Hi there, If you are collecting…
Read MoreWhat happens if I switch from survivors benefits to my retirement benefits?
Full question: If I switch from survivors benefits to my retirement benefits (age 67), what happens to the remaining unused survivor benefits? Hi there, When a retiree switches from a survivor benefit to their own retirement benefit, the survivor benefit will no longer be paid unless it is higher than the retirement benefit. If that…
Read MoreCan I switch from survivors benefits to my own retirement benefit when I turn 70?
Full question: I am receiving survivors benefits from my deceased ex-husband. Am I able to start drawing mine when I turn 70? Hi there, Yes, you can start collecting your own retirement benefit at age 70 if the amount is greater than the survivor benefit you are collecting. Anyone eligible to collect more than one…
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