I just read Mike Piper's latest blog post on miscommunication with SSA and I am confused by this statement:
Another common source of miscommunications is the misconception that you “switch to” a spousal or survivor benefit after having received your own retirement benefit earlier. That never happens. You keep receiving your own retirement benefit, and you receive a spousal or survivor benefit in addition to the retirement benefit.. This wasn't in his book on Social Security and my understanding or maybe misunderstanding is that a widow or widower can claim either but not both of their own retirement benefit or a survivor benefit - usually whichever is higher. I've emailed Mike, but he mentioned that I'd get a quicker response here. Here is a quote for AARP that contradicts him: Social Security doesn’t add benefits together. If you’re entitled to two types of payments — as both a retiree and a survivor of one, for example — Social Security determines which payment is higher and sends you that amount. Any clarification would be appreciated. I'm trying to help my daughter who is in the situation and I want to make sure I'm giving the proper advice.
Another common source of miscommunications is the misconception that you “switch to” a spousal or survivor benefit after having received your own retirement benefit earlier. That never happens. You keep receiving your own retirement benefit, and you receive a spousal or survivor benefit in addition to the retirement benefit.. This wasn't in his book on Social Security and my understanding or maybe misunderstanding is that a widow or widower can claim either but not both of their own retirement benefit or a survivor benefit - usually whichever is higher. I've emailed Mike, but he mentioned that I'd get a quicker response here. Here is a quote for AARP that contradicts him: Social Security doesn’t add benefits together. If you’re entitled to two types of payments — as both a retiree and a survivor of one, for example — Social Security determines which payment is higher and sends you that amount. Any clarification would be appreciated. I'm trying to help my daughter who is in the situation and I want to make sure I'm giving the proper advice.
Statistics: Posted by mclaflin — Mon May 06, 2024 5:37 pm — Replies 1 — Views 106
