Russell Settle
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.
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.
Why Is My Pension Killing My Social Security Benefit?
Russell Settle on February 28, 2021
A reader says the government is penalizing him for having a pension. Is he right?
Can My Wife Use My Social Security Benefits While Letting Hers Grow?
Russell Settle on March 5, 2023
Your self-discipline in not uttering three little words helps determine whether you can use a key claiming strategy.
When Should I Collect Social Security Survivor’s Benefits?
Russell Settle on March 17, 2020
Grabbing benefits earlier can make sense — but you’ll pay a price.
If My Spouse Waits Till Age 70 to Claim Social Security, Will It Help Me?
Russell Settle on March 17, 2020
Making decisions about Social Security often becomes a two-person affair.
Will Claiming Half My Wife’s Social Security Benefit Cost Her Money?
Russell Settle on March 17, 2020
Even experts can make mistakes when mapping Social Security options.
Social Security Q&A: Can I Make a Claim on My Ex’s Benefits?
Russell Settle on March 17, 2020
Has there been a divorce in your past? You may be able to claim benefits on your ex’s Social Security.
How Can My Spouse Squeeze the Most From Her Social Security Benefits?
Russell Settle on June 27, 2020
Trying to get the biggest benefit possible? Early claiming can complicate matters.
How Long Must I Wait for My Full Social Security Survivor’s Benefit?
Russell Settle on June 27, 2020
Waiting a little while to claim your benefit can pay off handsomely for years to come.
Social Security Q&A: Is There a Cap on the Benefits My Family Can Earn?
Russell Settle on March 17, 2020
An odd quirk in a Social Security formula favors higher-benefit families over lower-benefit families.
Social Security Q&A: How Much of My Spouse’s Benefit Can I Get?
Russell Settle on March 17, 2020
A little rule with a funny name can have a big impact on your Social Security benefits.
Social Security Q&A: Can I Get Survivor’s Benefits If My Spouse Died Young?
Russell Settle on March 17, 2020
You might be able to collect survivor’s benefits even if your spouse dies before the age of 62. But you must meet a couple of key conditions.
Social Security Q&A: Can Avoiding Marriage Boost Our Benefit?
Russell Settle on March 17, 2020
Saying “I do” can have both positive and negative impacts on the size of your monthly Social Security payment.
Social Security Q&A: Should My Spouse Claim Early?
Russell Settle on March 17, 2020
A reader asks whether his wife should start her benefit early, then switch to a spousal benefit after he retires. The answer might surprise you.
What’s the Windfall Elimination Provision?
Russell Settle on September 21, 2020
If you work for any governmental employer that doesn’t withhold Social Security, you may be subject to the Windfall Elimination Provision. Here’s how it works.
Social Security Q&A: Can I Apply for Spousal Benefits at Age 80?
Russell Settle on March 17, 2020
What happens if you wait until you’re older to apply for Social Security spousal or widow’s benefits?
Social Security Q&A: What Are the Options for Widows?
Russell Settle on May 7, 2020
If you lose a spouse before qualifying for Social Security, there are several options when it comes to receiving benefits. But what if you remarry?
Social Security Q&A: Can My Husband Get a Spousal Benefit?
Russell Settle on March 17, 2020
If a husband leaves the workforce to care for kids, can he claim spousal benefits in retirement based on his wife’s work history?
Social Security Q&A: What’s the Best Claiming Strategy for a Couple?
Russell Settle on March 17, 2020
If one spouse started Social Security benefits early, can he or she pay the money back and start over at a later date?
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