S.S. Question, Please

Hello:

I tried, but couldn't find a group for general S.S. questions. Is there one ?

I imagine, though, that you folks know about these things, so will take the liberty of posting here.

A very basic question, please:

I'm retired, in my 70's and receive S.S. benefits and Medicare.

My wife will be turning 65 shortly. Has never worked; always a housewife.

Will she be eligible for "any" basic S.S. benefits (no disability or anything special) ? Amount, approx. ?

Thanks, B.

Reply to
Robert11
Loading thread data ...

There is a government website

formatting link
that can answer mostof your questions.

She will be eligible for 50% of your benefit if she waits until full retirement age (about 66).

-- Ron

Reply to
Ron Peterson

On that site, see

formatting link
for an explanation of spousal benefits, including a calculator.

Clarification: "your benefit" means "your full benefit", i.e. the amount OP would receive if OP retired at "full retirement age", and not what the OP is actually receiving. It doesn't matter whether the OP is receiving more in benefits (for late retirement), or less (for early retirement).

This may seem obvious, but it is something I didn't get right for a long time.

Mark Freeland snipped-for-privacy@sbcglobal.net

Reply to
Mark Freeland

Your wife will be eligible to receive 50% of the amount of benefit you are receiving.If she survies you she would then be eligible to recive

100% of your benifit. Have her call or visit the local S.S Office before she turns 65 to complete her application
Reply to
rpmaci

To a first approximation her monthly benefit will be 50% of what you are getting. She will have to apply, bringing her birth certificate, marriage certificate, social security card and your number. She should make an appointment about 3 months before she becomes 65.

Should you predecease her, her benefit would be bumped up to your benefit She will also be eligible for Medicare.

Reply to
Avrum Lapin

That is incorrect - she would not receive 50% unless she waits for another year. If she starts at age 65, as the OP indicated she plans to do, she will receive less than 50%. Her full retirement age is 66 years, not 65.

Reply to
bo peep

BeanSmart website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.