Ask Larry: Questions and Answers

What is the downside to my spouse claiming work history benefits upon turning 62 then upgrading to spousal benefits when I turn 67? Is there a general rule of thumb as to whether or not it is worthwhile to have her start claiming benefits at 62?

Hi. The potential downside is that your wife would then be stuck with the reduction for age that's applied to her benefit rate for at least as long as both of you are living, even if she later qualifies for spousal benefits from your record. Your wife can't simply claim benefits on her own account at age 62 and . . . Read More

My 3 children receive 846 per child my oldest Turing 18 so how much will tha remaing to get

Hi. The answer to your question depends on a) the primary insurance amount (PIA) of the worker on whose record the children collect benefits, b) the family maximum benefit (FMB) amount that can be paid on the worker's record, c) whether or not the worker is living or deceased, and d) whether or not any other children or surviving spouses will be eligible for benefits on the worker's record.

Children receiving benefits on the record of a living worker can be . . . Read More

I retired in 2017 at the age of 62, I continued working part time, in all the years of retirement my income was higher, every year than it was in my younger working years, I never had a recalcuation that I know of, then in Novmeber of 2022 I sent a leftter to Social Security Administration asking for a recalculation, it is almost June of 2023 and I have not heard anything from them one way or another regarding the recalcualtion. Is it too soon to expect an answer and also will they give me an answer even if I don't qualify for a recalculation ?

Hi. You . . . Read More

My husband passed away he lives in Puerto Rico what do I do can I call for widow benefits over the phone I get ssi

Hi. I'm sorry for your loss. Yes, you can apply for Social Security widow's benefits by phone. You don't mention your age, but unless you have a child of your husband's in your care you would need to be at least age 60 or at least age 50 and disabled to potentially qualify for widow's benefits. You should be able to make an appointment to apply by calling 800-772-1213.

By the way, if you do start receiving widow's benefits, your . . . Read More