BFG In the News: Nick answers a reader’s question about collecting Social Security Disability benefits from an ex-spouse
Social Security Baron Team Insights InsuranceNicholas Scheibner, CFP®, is quoted on this topic, answering a reader’s question on NJMoneyHelp.com by Karin Price Mueller, “I’m disabled. Can I get Social Security from my ex?”, originally published on December 30, 2021.
A 30-second read by Nicholas Scheibner, CFP®: There are several benefits provided by the Social Security Administration, and each benefit has different rules governing when you are allowed to apply for them. Specifically in your case, you are currently receiving “Disability” benefits.
The key part of your question is whether your ex-spouse is alive or has passed away. Assuming he is alive, you would qualify for “Spousal Benefits” based on his record. You need to be at least 62 years old to apply for Spousal Benefits.
If he had passed away, then you would qualify for “Survivor Benefits,” which you would be entitled to at age 60.
If you are looking to maximize your Social Security, you could continue your SSDI payments until your full retirement age, when you can switch to your full spousal benefits. That would entitle you to 100% of your spousal benefits. If you decide to begin the spousal benefits prior to your full retirement age, you can expect a permanent reduction in payments.
To determine what you should do at age 62, you’ll want to review how much you are currently getting on SSDI, versus the reduced benefit on your husband’s record, as well as determine your current cash flow needs to see what will work best for you.
If you have any further questions, please reach out to your Baron Team.
Read Karin Price Mueller’s article here.
Disclosure: This is a general communication being provided for informational purposes only. This material is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research, tax or investment advice. Please consult your tax planning professional for personal tax advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Every investment strategy has the potential for profit or loss.