Ask Larry

Do You Have Any Idea Why My Grandmother's Benefits Were Reduced?

I try to help my 96 year old grandmother with her financial matters as best I can from a distance. Last year her combined social security check was adjusted downward about $100/mo. She collects on herself and her deceased husband. I have not seen any paper work but was told this was an adjustment due to her gross income. She reports about $100K+ gross income a year from investment income and a City Retirement Pension Income from her deceased husband. She just told me that the retirement pension check which she has been receiving has now been reduced about $500 monthly with no explanation that she can identify. She seems to think it's because she is reporting too much money . She's been collecting this retirement check from the City of Long Beach for about 4 years without any adjustments. She did not change any of the withholding. Any ideas why the pension check is being reduced? Many thanks for your assistance.

Hi,

Sorry, but I have no idea. If your grandmother didn't receive a notice from Social Security explaining the change, she should probably contact them for an explanation.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
May 4 2017 - 10:29pm
MaxiFi software running on a laptop
Get What's Yours!
Discover tens of thousands in extra retirement dollars with Maximize My Social Security software!
  • Find your maximized strategy
  • Unlimited what-ifs
  • Step-by-Step filing instructions
  • Our software's lifetime-benefit increase for an illustrative couple earning $65K each and planning to take retirement benefits at 62.

    Results will differ based on your specific case and filing strategy.

Getting Started is Easy
Web-based software. Works on ALL browsers. No download.