Ask Larry

Spousal Benefits

Does Being A Domestic Partner In California Count As Being Married For Social Security Benefits?

Does being a Domestic Partner in California count as being "married" for Social Security Benefits (like Spousal or Survivor's Benefits), and if Yes then how long (9 months? 10 years?) must you be a Domestic Partner for you to be entitled to get Benefits, and how long after a partner's death can you apply for those Benefits? Thanks for your time.
Reggie

Posted: 
Monday, June 21, 2021 - 15:11

Am I Entitled To Any Of My Husband's Benefits?

We have been married since 2003 but have been separated for over 5 years. He is currently collecting SSDI but is also a vet. But not getting VA benefits that I am aware of. He is 50 I am 38. I wanted to know if I am entitled to get any of his benefits? Either now. Or later. And if I am will he be informed that I’m collecting on his benefits and will his be lower bc I am collecting? Please help me. I am struggling financially and I took very good care of him while we were together so I feel I’m entitled

Posted: 
Monday, June 14, 2021 - 06:43

Does My Wife Have To Wait Until I Actually Begin Collecting SS To Draw Spousal Benefits?

Hi Larry,

I am 53 and work full time. My plan is to begin collecting SS at my full retirement age of 67 (though I would like to retire sooner). My wife is 62, does not work due to disability and collects SSDI. At my current earnings rate, my SS benefit would be about $3153/mo. My wife's SSDI is currently about $1050/mo. In order for my wife to be able to collect spousal SS based on my earnings, do we have to wait till I actually begin collecting SS? Due to our age difference, that would put as at a disadvantage since she would be 76 before I plan to collect.

Posted: 
Sunday, June 6, 2021 - 13:56

If I Claim Spousal Benefits Will It Reduce My Wife's Benefit Amount?

Question, If My spouse is at full SSI benefits soon, But I'm not for a few more years. And I claim spousal SSI for the 50% Will That Lower their return , or SSI check 50% as well? for instance say they get $1000 a month and i ask for the $500, does their $1000 get reduced to $500 as well? Or does it not affect their pay?

Posted: 
Saturday, May 29, 2021 - 10:42

Would I Still Be Eligible For Child In Care Benefits If I'm Separated From My Husband?

Hi. My husband will be retiring soon, and we have an adult disabled child. I understand I will be eligible for child in care benefit. I see if divorced I will not qualify, but what if we are separated. Am I eligible for the benefit? I haven’t seen any info on this anywhere. Thank you so much. Janelle

Posted: 
Tuesday, May 25, 2021 - 22:01

Will My Wife Be Entitled To The COLA Increases Between Now And When She Applies For Spousal Benefits?

Larry, Your column is great! Excellent information! Question - My wife is 8 years older than me. She claimed her reduced retirement benefits at age 62. The spousal benefit for her will be higher than what she is getting. I plan on applying for for benefits at age 70. She will be 78 when I apply. Will she be entitled to the 8 COLA increases (not DRCs) when she applies for spousal benefits? - Curious George

Posted: 
Friday, May 21, 2021 - 12:40
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