Ask Larry

Will Our Benefits Change When We Get Married?

I'm a retired male 63 years old and going to get married, probably next year. Will my benefits change? My fiance' is 56 and collects disability. Will my wife's benefits change?

Hi,

Assuming that you're referring to Social Security benefits payable on your own records then no, getting married wouldn't change your benefits. Remarriage can potentially result in the termination of divorced spousal benefits and disabled adult child's benefits, though.

It's also possible that your marriage could result in one of you qualifying for spousal benefits, but you could only qualify for spousal benefits if 50% of your spouse's full retirement age rate (PIA) is higher than your own PIA. And, your wife wouldn't be able to receive spousal benefits until at least age 62 unless she has a child in care who could qualify for benefits on your record.

You may want to strongly consider using our maximization software to check out the possible effects that your marriage would likely have on both of your Social Security benefit options.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
May 29 2018 - 10:07am
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