Ask Larry

Is There Anything I Can Do To Increase My Income?

I am almost 72, divorced. I am eligible for divorced spousal benefits which will bring my SS funds up to around $700 per month. I have $900 in cash and $100,000K in an IRA to last me for remainder of my life. no property. I worked much of my life with refugees and foster care and made very little money. I have medicare and AARP supplemental insurance. that and medications absorb much of my soc sec payment.
Is there ANYTHING I can try to effect which will help me financially. $100,000 is a bundle but drawing an additional $500 per month for income of $6000 per year; that will last one decade. I am very healthy.

Hi,

I can only answer questions about Social Security, and it sounds like you are already getting as much as you can for the time being. However, if your ex dies before you, you should get significantly more monthly on his record. A divorced spouse is eligible for a maximum of 50% of their ex's full retirement age rate, whereas a surviving divorced spouse can receive up to 100% of their ex's full rate.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Jul 30 2017 - 7:08am
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