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Author: Russell Settle
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 Staffer Give Me Bad — and Costly — 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.
Will This Retirement Perk Ruin My Social Security Spousal Benefit?
Russell Settle on March 15, 2020
An unsparing provision might strip a woman of her spousal benefit.
Can I Piggyback on My Ex-Wife’s Social Security Benefit?
Russell Settle on February 20, 2020
Being divorced has some advantages when it comes to claiming Social Security benefits.
Can a Homemaker Get Social Security Benefits?
Russell Settle on February 13, 2020
When is a homemaker eligible for Social Security — and how much will she get?
Why Is My Pension Killing My Social Security Benefit?
Russell Settle on January 26, 2020
A reader says the government is penalizing him for having a pension. Is he right?
How Much of My Social Security Benefit Can My Ex Take From Me?
Russell Settle on December 29, 2019
A man wonders if his ex-wife will siphon away his Social Security benefit.
Can My Wife Use My Social Security Benefits While Letting Hers Grow?
Russell Settle on December 12, 2019
Your self-discipline in not uttering three little words helps determine whether you can use a key claiming strategy.
Can I Take a Spousal Benefit Without Triggering My Own Social Security?
Russell Settle on November 21, 2019
A husband and wife want to get creative with how they claim Social Security retirement benefits. Can they do so?
When Should I Collect Social Security Survivor’s Benefits?
Russell Settle on November 7, 2019
Grabbing benefits earlier can make sense — but you’ll pay a price.
Does Being Married Less Than 10 Years Impact Social Security Benefits?
Russell Settle on October 27, 2019
Social Security rules can be confusing. A little inexpensive help can straighten things out.
If My Spouse Waits Till Age 70 to Claim Social Security, Will It Help Me?
Russell Settle on October 3, 2019
Making decisions about Social Security often becomes a two-person affair.
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