Q & A
Can I Suspend at 63 or Repay Benefits to Avoid the Earnings Test?
Full Question: I’m 63 and collecting Social Security. I had to get a job to support myself. Next year, I will make more money than they allow. Can I stop Social Security and collect when I reach the proper age? Do…
Is It True That I Can Completely Avoid the Earnings Test at 65 and Two Days?
Full Question: I have been told that I can earn unlimited income two days after my 65th birthday. I’m skeptical. Exactly when can someone earn unlimited income and not be penalized by Social Security? Answer: The first day of the month in…
I started taking my reduced Social Security benefits based on my own earnings. My husband will most likely defer his benefits until 2017 when he will be 70. At that point, can I receive half of his benefit instead of my own or in addition to my own?
Answer: Your husband can file right now for his retirement benefit and suspend its collection. This won’t change what he’ll collect starting at 70. It will, however, let you apply for your excess spousal benefit, which will equal the difference between…
After taking an early reduced retirement benefit, is the spouse’s benefit received in addition to, or instead of, the reduced retirement benefit.
Full Question: Today’s question asks if, after taking an early reduced retirement benefit, the spouse’s benefit benefit is received in addition to, or instead of, the reduced retirement benefit. The answer explains how filing and suspending may allow one spouse to…
What is the disability waiting period?
Answer: Social Security disability requirements include a waiting period of five full calendar months before entitlement to benefits can begin. Benefits are paid starting for the sixth full month after the date a disability is determined to begin. Called the…
Can I conduct my Social Security business online in the event of a hurricane or other disaster that keeps me from visiting an office?
Answer: Yes, you can conduct most of your business with Social Security online at www.socialsecurity.gov. For example, you can create or access your own My Social Security Account, apply online for Social Security benefits or Medicare, and check the status of your…
What is the definition of disability for children filing for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Answer: Social Security has a strict definition of disability for children under the SSI program. A child who is under age 18 is considered disabled if he or she: ∎ Has a physical or mental condition (or a combination of conditions)…
How Many Social Security Credits Do I Need For Disability Benefits?
Answer: You may be asking yourself, “What are Social Security disability credits?” These credits are one of the areas that Social Security goes by to determine eligibility for Social Security Disability. If you are not familiar with what these credits are,…
How do I tell Social Security that I have changed my mind?
Answer: Fill out Social Security Form SSA-521 and include the reason why you want to withdraw the application on the form. Note: If you already have Medicare, your request must also clearly state whether your Medicare coverage should or should not be included in…
Can I change my mind about taking early retirement?
Answer: Yes, but only within one year and there are serious consequences to consider: 1. You must repay all the benefits you and your family received based on your retirement application.2. The repayment obligation includes any benefits your spouse or…