Author: Russell Settle
Can a Homemaker Get Social Security Benefits?
Russell Settle on March 18, 2021
When is a homemaker eligible for Social Security — and how much will she get?
Can My Wife Get a Higher Social Security Benefit Even If I Apply Early?
Russell Settle on March 11, 2021
Can a woman who has never worked get the maximum spousal benefit if her husband files for benefits before his full retirement age?
How Much of My Social Security Can My Ex Take?
Russell Settle on February 18, 2021
A man wonders if his ex-wife will siphon away his Social Security benefit.
Will Claiming Survivors Benefits Hurt My Social Security Later?
Russell Settle on January 14, 2021
A widower asks about the wisdom of claiming Social Security survivors benefits at age 60.
Am I Eligible for My Mother’s Social Security Benefit?
Russell Settle on December 17, 2020
Can an adult daughter tap into her late mother’s benefit?
Can I Take a Spousal Benefit Without Triggering My Own Social Security?
Russell Settle on December 3, 2020
A husband and wife want to get creative with how they claim Social Security retirement benefits. Can they do so?
Can a Twice-Divorced Woman Claim Social Security Survivors Benefits?
Russell Settle on November 12, 2020
Understanding survivors benefits rules is the key to getting the most from your benefit.
Does Being Married Less Than 10 Years Impact Social Security Benefits?
Russell Settle on November 5, 2020
Social Security rules can be confusing. A little inexpensive help can straighten things out.
Will My Wife’s Social Security Benefit Increase When I Turn 67?
Russell Settle on October 15, 2020
A reader wonders whether his wife has to wait to get bigger benefits. Our expert has good news.
Can I Add a Survivor’s Benefit to My Social Security Check?
Russell Settle on October 8, 2020
The rules for survivor’s benefits can be confusing.
Can We Claim Social Security Benefits Retroactively?
Russell Settle on September 3, 2020
A couple were unaware of their right to a bigger benefit. Can they ask for a do-over?
Will I Qualify for the Maximum Ex-Spousal Social Security Benefit?
Russell Settle on August 13, 2020
Different rules for claiming apply, depending on the year you were born.
Will the ‘One-Half’ Rule Slash My Social Security Benefit?
Russell Settle on August 6, 2020
Your birthdate determines whether you can use a lucrative Social Security strategy.
When Can I Claim a Social Security Spousal Supplement?
Russell Settle on July 9, 2020
Making the wrong decision can prove costly.
Will My Husband’s Earnings Wreck My Social Security Check?
Russell Settle on June 11, 2020
A reader wonders if the Social Security earnings test will help or hurt her benefits payment.
Can My Wife Claim Social Security Spousal Benefits When I Retire?
Russell Settle on June 4, 2020
This week’s question underscores how asking for a little help can put more money in your pocket.
Does It Really Matter When I Claim Social Security Benefits?
Russell Settle on May 21, 2020
Some people say it doesn’t matter at what age you decide to claim. They are wrong.
Did a Social Security Rep Give Me Bad Advice?
Russell Settle on May 14, 2020
A Social Security representative breaks some bad news. But is he telling the truth?
What Happens to My Spouse If I Die Before Claiming Social Security?
Russell Settle on May 7, 2020
It’s important to think about survivor’s benefits before deciding when to claim Social Security.
How Do I Use ‘Restricted Application’ to Get More Social Security?
Russell Settle on April 9, 2020
A woman hopes to squeeze the most out of her spousal benefit.
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