Ask Larry

Why Can't I Get A Benefit Estimate Online If I've Filed And Suspended My Benefits?

HI Larry,

I've filed and suspended so that my wife can claim spousal benefit when she turns 66 (Both of us plan to start taking benefits on turning 70.). Since filing and suspending the social security website no longer shows my estimated/projected benefit amounts. Is this normal? Does this even make sense or do they like to keep us in the dark and surprise us later?

Thanks!

Hi,

Yes, that's normal, but I don't know why Social Security chooses to do it that way. The maximization software available on this website can give you an accurate estimate of your benefit rate inclusive of delayed retirement credits, and allows you to input projected future earnings so that you can determine their potential effect as well.

Hopefully, you filed and suspended your benefits prior to April 30 2016. Otherwise, your wife wouldn't be able to receive benefits on your record while your benefits are suspended (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/suspendfaq.html).

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Mar 10 2017 - 8:30am
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